The 2023 State of Nature report shows that the abundance of species studied in the UK has declined by 19% on average since records began in 1970, and nearly 1 in 6 of the 10,000-plus species surveyed risk being lost from Great Britain. But while the most important natural habitats are in poor condition, work to protect landscapes has clear benefits for nature, people and climate.
Development and the increased modernisation of our lives have caused an alarming decrease in biodiversity worldwide;
- The pressures of urban expansion place an ever-increasing demand on fragile natural resources and available habitat
- Globalisation has led to the spread of invasive species which rapidly outcompete native wildlife
- Pesticides from agriculture can be linked to a decline in 40% of all insect species
All of the Earth’s plants, animals, insects and microbes contribute to biodiversity with each individual species playing its own unique part.
Enhancing biodiversity on site
Biodiversity enhancement isn’t limited to new developments. Bear in mind most of our built environment is here already! Refurbishment and maintenance scheduling for the existing built environment can significantly influence biodiversity. By incorporating ecological features and management regimes, spaces can be improved to provide habitats for wildlife whilst improving user experiences and contributing to our wellbeing.
Initiatives can include;
- Green roofs
- Living walls
- Bird/bat boxes
- Bird feeders
- Planting low-maintenance native species on site
- Ponds and water features
- Planting butterfly/bee-friendly species on site
- “Bug hotels” and beehives
- Even investigating opportunities for species reintroductions
Biodiversity: Sustainability Short
This short animated film outlines why we need to be aware of and promote biodiversity in the built environment.
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Biodiversity and Ecology
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15 minutesBiodiversity and Ecology
Green Infrastructure
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Conservation, Biodiversity & Wildlife in Wales
Web link
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Introduction to Biodiversity
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Edie Explains Biodiversity & Business
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Hedgehog ecology and land management
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DEFRA Biodiversity Net Gain Consultation
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Get in touch with the Nature Recovery Group