Biodiversity Net Gain and Sustainable Construction

Unlocking the Future of Development: Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and its Role in Sustainable Construction

The UK’s construction industry is on the brink of a transformative era with the mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regulation, which took effect on February 12, 2024. This regulation, introduced under the Environment Act 2021, requires all new developments to deliver a 10% net increase in biodiversity compared to the pre-development state. Since April 2024, smaller projects were also bound by this regulation, with infrastructure projects following by 2025.

What is Biodiversity Net Gain?

BNG is a structured approach to ensure that construction projects do more than just mitigate their environmental impact—they must enhance it. Developers must follow a biodiversity hierarchy:

1. On-site enhancement of habitats.
2. Combination of on-site and off-site measures.
3. Biodiversity credits purchase from the government if previous options are exhausted.

The ultimate goal is to shift construction practices from merely reducing harm to actively contributing to ecosystem restoration, addressing the alarming decline in UK biodiversity, where species populations have dropped by around 20% since 1970.

Why This Matters

This regulation not only aims to curb biodiversity loss but also aligns with the UK’s broader goal of halting species decline by 2030. For developers, this means integrating biodiversity considerations early in the planning process, creating green spaces that benefit both nature and communities.

One Click LCA: Simplifying BNG Compliance

One Click LCA, a leader in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) software, is rolling out a BNG Tool designed to streamline biodiversity assessments. Developed in collaboration with UK Habitat Classification (UKHab), this tool allows developers—even non-ecologists—to easily calculate biodiversity impacts, reducing complexity and making compliance faster and more accessible. By embedding BNG from the design phase, developers can confidently meet regulatory requirements while supporting climate resilience and public health.

Conclusion

As BNG becomes a legal obligation, it represents a pivotal moment for the UK’s construction sector. Developers have an opportunity not only to comply with new standards but to lead the way in creating a future where urban growth and nature coexist harmoniously. With innovative tools like One Click LCA’s BNG platform, the path to sustainable, biodiversity-positive development has never been clearer.

For more detailed insights, visit One Click LCA's official site.