#GreenrevolutionUK

[thxnews]

UK Embraces Biodiversity Net Gain Revolution

  A Green Revolution Unveiled

In a significant move towards a greener future, the UK Government announced its intentions on Wednesday, 27th September, to take strides towards making housing, commercial, and infrastructure projects more environmentally friendly. This momentous decision comes with the confirmation that upcoming legislation, aimed at enforcing these rules, will be presented in November.   "Biodiversity Net Gain" Takes Center Stage Under the revised timeline outlined, developers in England will soon be mandated to achieve a "Biodiversity Net Gain" (BNG) of 10% starting from January 2024. This requirement applies to the construction of new housing, industrial, or commercial developments. It will become a legal obligation, to ensure that such projects contribute positively to the local environment by, for instance, establishing new habitats and green spaces. Small sites will need to comply with Biodiversity Net Gain from April 2024, while the framework's inclusion in Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects is slated for 2025.  

Key to Halting Decline in Species Abundance

Biodiversity Net Gain was initially introduced through the groundbreaking Environment Act and is seen as pivotal in aiding the UK's pursuit of its target to halt the decline in species abundance by 2030. Simultaneously, it aims to foster more attractive communities and facilitate the creation of new homes.   Government's Commitment and Industry Participation To facilitate the successful implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain, the government has already earmarked over £15 million to assist Local Planning Authorities in preparation. Additionally, numerous housing developers have proactively embraced Biodiversity Net Gain principles in their projects.  

Guiding the Way Forward

By the end of November, comprehensive guidance and regulations will be published, including: - The statutory biodiversity metric is crucial for accurate biodiversity gain calculation. - The draft biodiversity gain plan template aids developers during the planning application stages. - The Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan template outlines how on-site and off-site habitats will be managed in the long term. - A package of Biodiversity Net Gain guidance offering further counsel for landowners, developers, and Local Planning Authorities regarding their roles and responsibilities in delivering mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain.   Paving the Path to a Greener Future These materials are expected to equip developers and planning authorities with the essential tools and information needed to effectively implement Biodiversity Net Gain from January 2024. This ensures that they can meet the nation's housing demands while simultaneously benefiting nature and local environments.  

Trudy Harrison's Vision

Biodiversity Minister Trudy Harrison expressed her enthusiasm for this groundbreaking initiative, stating, "Biodiversity Net Gain will ensure new developments work for both wildlife and people. We will create nature-rich places while ensuring communities get the new homes and infrastructure they need." She also emphasized the importance of the updated timetable and guidance, highlighting that they will help smooth the transition as Biodiversity Net Gain becomes fully operational in January 2024. Developers and planning authorities are encouraged to familiarize themselves with this guidance to prepare for the integration of Biodiversity Net Gain into the planning system.   Sources: THX News, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, & Trudy Harrison MP. Read the full article

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