Biodiversity & Ecology

Species diversity is integral in maintaining our ecosystems.

The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 provides protection for Barn Owls and most other wild bird species in England, Scotland and Wales.

All plants, animals, insects and microbes contribute to our planet’s biodiversity with each individual species playing its own unique part.
Without biodiversity, we would not have clean air, water or soil. Our sources of food, raw materials and even our climate is affected by diversity of species, or lack thereof.

Development and the increased modernisation of our lives have caused a decrease in biodiversity worldwide;

The pressures of urban expansion place an ever-increasing demand on natural resources and available habitat
Globalisation has led to the spread of invasive species which can outcompete native wildlife
Pesticides from agriculture can be linked to a decline in 40% of all insect species

Halting biodiversity loss is a huge challenge, particularly in light of climate change, which will exacerbate many of the adverse drivers.

There are numerous pieces of legislation and many site designations in place at a local, national, EU and UN level to help conserve and enhance biodiversity. While ensuring compliance is a great place to start, good sustainable development should take a ‘beyond compliance’ approach that contributes to and promotes biodiversity.

The Sustainable Construction Strategy sets out that all construction projects over £1m should have biodiversity surveys carried out and necessary actions implemented. BREEAM, CEEQUAL, LEED and the Home Quality Mark help contractors to measure and report on biodiversity impacts as part of wider environmental assessments.

Enhancing biodiversity on site

Biodiversity enhancement isn’t limited to new developments – refurbishment projects can also take steps to promote biodiversity. Through the incorporation of ecological features and management regimes, spaces can be improved to provide habitat for wildlife.

Initiatives can include;