From the 12th of February 2024 local planning authorities will require developers must deliver a BNG of 10%. This means a development will result in more or better quality natural habitat than there was before development.
BNG is a drive towards more sustainable development. It makes sure that habitats for wildlife are left in a measurably better state than they were before a development.
Developers (as of the 12th of February 2024) must deliver a biodiversity net gain of 10%. Resulting in a more or better quality natural habitat than there was before development.
Each project will be individually owned and its biodiversity baseline, connectivity to other site habitats and management will vary.
The site habitat bank should ideally be located in the same local planning authority area as your development.
The habitat bank should have a habitat management and monitoring plan from a reputable organisation that has experience in managing similar projects.
Defra has recently consulted on making biodiversity net gain a mandatory element of the English planning system. Developers can look to design net gain into their development projects (onsite), but this approach comes with a 30 year habitat management and monitoring plan they must abide by.
By purchasing biodiversity net gain units from a dedicated provider (offsite) they are free of this obligation. The practice guidance on this it to purchase site habitats from the local communities surrounding the development.
Genuine biodiversity enhancement (biodiversity net gain) is the delivery of nature restoration at a scale that works for our planet and that can be verified and trusted for the 30 year agreed term.
As a developer the requirement to manage and monitor this restoration is quite a burden.
Purchasing your BNG units from Beyond Carbon means we’ll take on all responsibility for the full 30 years. This includes management of the land, monitoring and reporting obligations.
By purchasing the BNG units, your obligation is completed. You can step away and move on to your next project.
Developers in England will be required to deliver a 10% “Biodiversity Net Gain” (BNG) when building new housing, industrial, or commercial developments. They will achieve this through the following steps.
A developer identifies a new site for building a new housing estate. This site is assessed to establish its current Biodiversity baseline. As an example, let's say the land has a current score of 30.
The developer, as they always have, needs to apply for planning permission from the local authority. As of February 2024, this application will need to contain the current biodiversity score of the land.
To achieve the required biodiversity net gain, the developer must demonstrate that once the work on the land has been completed, they are leaving it with a new baseline score or 33. (the original score of 30 and 10% more)
The developer can either set aside land on the development to achieve the 33 BNG units they require. Or they can purchase 33 BNG units from a monitored and registered habitat landbank.
From January 2024, developers in England will be required to deliver a 10% “Biodiversity Net Gain” (BNG) when building new housing, industrial, or commercial developments.
This means that, by law, they must deliver a net positive for the local environment, for example by creating new habitats and green spaces or through the purchase of offsite BNG units.
Biodiversity net gain or loss is calculated by taking the pre – development habitat data (in BNG units) and comparing it to the post-development habitat data (in BNG units).
Giving the development a BNG gain/loss.
A site with a 105% gain on the baseline biodiversity of the original property is deemed to have achieved biodiversity.
Our vision for the 35 acres at Okehampton is one of a thriving ecosystem mosaic, establishing harmonious woodlands, vibrant species-rich grasslands, and tranquil ponds, all naturally nourished by the flows from the Restlands spring.
In crafting a landscape lush with flowers, fruits, and nuts, we’re nurturing diverse habitats that boost biodiversity, fortify land health, and enrich local communities.
Inês Munday
Managing Director
Contact us today to explore partnership opportunities, learn more about our services, or inquire about how we can help your business achieve its sustainability goals.
At Beyond Carbon, we’re fuelled by ambition to surpass the UK’s Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) guidelines. We don’t merely align with the 30-year commitment; instead driven to establish protections for our sites for at least 100 years.
This pledge underscores our deep commitment to enduring environmental resilience, our promise to future generations, and the preservation of nature’s invaluable gifts.
Together, we can make a difference and go Beyond Carbon.
Beyond Carbon is a proud partner of some of the most dedicated and passionate organisations and local farmers. Enabling us to deliver the latest pioneering solutions to you.
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Beyond Carbon Ltd.
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Park Five Business Centre,
Harrier Way, Exeter, Devon EX2 7HU.
Company Number: 13981558