Unpacking Biodiversity Net Gain: Myths vs. Truths

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is transforming how we approach development and the environment, but misconceptions persist. To separate fact from fiction, Nick White, Principal Advisor - Net Gain at Natural England, created the #BNGAdventCalendar. This invaluable resource dispels myths and clarifies truths about BNG, now summarised for you by Biodiversity Units UK.

Key Highlights

• BNG is here to stay. Primary and secondary legislation firmly support its implementation. Substantial changes require government consultations, so any major shift would be well-publicised.

• Private gardens count. While not typically enforceable for long-term management, private gardens contribute to biodiversity calculations for development projects.

• Offsite units are flexible. Developers can purchase biodiversity units from anywhere in England, with preferences for local purchases reflected in the biodiversity metric.

• Brownfield challenges debunked. While some sites host critical habitats like Open Mosaic Habitat, many brownfield areas have low biodiversity baselines, making gains easier to achieve.

• Expertise matters. Ecologists are essential, but they must be BNG-competent. Understanding metrics, condition assessments, and habitat specifics is critical.

The full document delves into these and many other topics, including intertidal habitats, statutory biodiversity credits, and the importance of collaboration in achieving BNG goals. It’s an essential read for developers, landowners, and environmental professionals navigating this evolving landscape.

“Reproduced with permission from Nick White, Principal Advisor - Net Gain at Natural England. The inclusion of this content is for informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement of Biodiversity Units UK by Nick White or Natural England.”

Download the Document

Dive deeper into the myths and truths shaping the future of BNG. Download the full document here to explore all 24 insights.