Housing Associations & Biodiversity Net Gain
Biodiversity plays a crucial role in the housing sector, particularly for housing associations. This topic has garnered significant attention due to its impact on new developments and property maintenance. The importance of preserving and enhancing natural habitats cannot be overstated, as it affects both the environment and the quality of life for residents.
Housing associations face unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to managing biodiversity. From planning new projects to maintaining existing properties, these organisations must consider the delicate balance between human habitation and the natural world. By prioritising biodiversity, housing associations can create more sustainable and appealing living spaces for their tenants whilst also contributing to the broader ecological health of their communities.
What Is Biodiversity Net Gain?
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a new approach to development in the UK. It aims to leave nature better off after building projects are completed. Starting in late 2023, developers must increase biodiversity by at least 10% to get planning approval. This can be done on-site or through purchasing credits to improve biodiversity elsewhere.
BNG applies to most developments, but some irreplaceable habitats are exempt. The goal is to reduce habitat loss and boost local ecosystems. Developers have these options:
- Enhance biodiversity on-site
- Improve nearby land
- Buy biodiversity credits
For housing associations, BNG offers a chance to earn money from unused land. By creating wildflower meadows or planting trees, they can generate biodiversity credits to sell to developers.
This system helps nature thrive in communities while providing a new income stream. It's a practical way to balance development needs with environmental protection.
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Contact us todayWhy Should Housing Associations Take Notice?
Housing associations can benefit greatly from unused land assets. These parcels, often deemed unsuitable for development, can be transformed into valuable resources. By enhancing biodiversity on these sites, associations can:
- Generate income through biodiversity credit sales
- Support local wildlife and ecosystems
- Align with sustainability goals
- Contribute to national biodiversity targets
Developers in England often struggle to meet biodiversity requirements on their own projects. This creates a market for biodiversity credits, which housing associations can supply. The Environment Act 2021 has made these improvements even more crucial for new developments.
How Biodiversity Enhancement Works
Landowners can generate biodiversity net gain (BNG) credits from unused parcels. The process starts by identifying suitable areas, such as small plots or land with building restrictions.
Improving biodiversity on these sites is the next step. Simple measures like tree planting, pond creation, or wildflower seeding can boost biodiversity value. These enhancements are measured using the biodiversity metric tool to calculate biodiversity units.
Once improvements are in place, the credits can be sold to developers. These companies need BNG credits to meet legal requirements for their projects. The biodiversity gain plan must demonstrate a 10% increase in biodiversity value.
Developers may pay well for these credits, creating a potential revenue stream for landowners. This system allows for biodiversity improvements while providing financial incentives. It's a win-win situation for nature and property owners.
Advantages for Social Housing Providers
Housing associations can benefit from unused land by selling biodiversity net gain (BNG) credits. This creates a fresh income stream that can fund new projects or community initiatives. It's a clever way to earn revenue from improving unused land. The process also helps create green spaces for local residents to enjoy.
• New income source
• Funds for development
• Community green spaces
