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Sustainability

Sustainability

Biodiversity and Ecology

‘Biodiversity’ simply refers to all living things. Every species, no matter how small, has a role to play.

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.

An Introduction to BNG and TNFD with Julia Baker and Mott MacDonald

In this webinar, Julia Baker, Technical Director of Nature Services at Mott MacDonald helps you to gain an understanding of the principles and practice of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and its potential to contribute to Nature Recovery, as well as the extent of mandatory BNG within England. This video also covers how BNG fits with the TNFD framework, how the TNFD framework is helping to create a global shift towards nature positive outcomes, and what this could mean for your business.

An Introduction to Biodiversity Net Gain and the TNFD

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.

Biodiversity – Sustainability Short

Topics related to Biodiversity and Ecology

Biodiversity and ecology are crucial to the built environment and we'd encourage you to take a look at these other interrelated topics within the School's library.

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social value
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Key Biodiversity and Ecology resources

Here are a selection of featured biodiversity and ecology resources. To view more, please visit our full resource library:

Biodiversity and Ecology
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Biodiversity and Ecology
Biodiversity and Ecology
Biodiversity and Ecology
EmailGet in touch with the Nature Recovery Group
Do you have a question or want to know more about the Nature Recovery Group? The School team is on hand to provide support to you and your organisation.
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Toolbox talks
Toolbox talks are a great way to engage your team on a variety of topics - watch one of our short videos and consult a list of questions to help facilitate a discussion.
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