Achieving biodiversity net gain

Land development has negatively impacted biodiversity in the UK, contributing to the decline of many plant and animal species. This loss not only affects nature and the environment, but it also causes health and wellbeing issues for residents within urban spaces.

CAPABILITY:

Suggesting wildlife-friendly measures for urban development

Our biodiversity scientists measure change in terrestrial populations of native and non-native species. This research is essential to understand, predict and reduce future threats. Working with partners, we can make recommendations and develop solutions for local authorities and housing providers to introduce wildlife-friendly measures that help reverse the long-term decline in biodiversity in urban areas.

Data from the UKCEH Land Cover Maps shows that the area used for urban environments in the UK increased by 30% between 1990 and 2019. As land development increases, maintaining a safe and sustainable habitat for wildlife has become a priority. Biodiversity net gain is core to the UK Government’s Environmental Improvement Plan and applies to land managers, developers and local planning authorities from February 2024.

Key capabilities:

Suggesting wildlife-friendly measures for urban development
AI for biodiversity and plant identification

CASE STUDY:

Impact of light pollution on insects

UKCEH scientists have carried out research to better understand the impact of LED streetlights on insect populations. Although they use less energy, they emit different light in different wavelengths. The study showed that ‘eco-friendly’ LED streetlights are significantly more harmful for insect populations than the traditional sodium bulbs they are replacing. Researchers highlighted opportunities for local authorities to implement easy and cost-effective solutions to minimise the negative impacts of streetlights on insect populations. Based on the evidence and insights we provided, several authorities have replaced sodium lamps with dimmable LEDs and are using filters to block the blue wavelengths of light that are most harmful to insects.

TOOLKIT:

Biodiversity Toolkit

UKCEH scientists worked with partners to provide a range of ways to improve biodiversity on housing estates and support residents' physical and mental health. The project resulted in the creation of the Biodiversity Toolkit, which lists more than 20 wildlife management options suitable for housing developments. Housing providers and residents can use the kit to identify measures they can implement themselves, including a range of affordable wildlife management options. It also provides a guide on how best to improve green spaces for wildlife while involving residents in key decision making.

"We were delighted to be involved with this project. As a business that develops land in both rural and urban settings, we’re determined to encourage the return of wildlife to the built environment. It can be as simple as making a slightly different choice of plants for a hedgerow or grassy area. A commitment to biodiversity doesn’t need to come with high financial or human resource investment.”

Patryk Szczerba,
former Southern Housing Group’s Sustainability Manager

CAPABILITY:

AI for biodiversity and plant identification

Artificial intelligence can help us better understand the natural world in the UK. UKCEH scientists have been using a particular type of AI called “computer vision”, which teaches computers how to recognise objects in images, including trees and insects. Working with partners specialising in AI and computer vision, we are developing tools to monitor biodiversity in urban environments safely, cheaply, quickly and at scale.