Biodiversity Net Gain

In light of the Environment Act 2021, developers across the UK are now required to demonstrate a minimum 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) on their construction projects—a shift that encourages design strategies enhancing ecological value and protecting the environment.

Urban greening, particularly green living roofs and living walls offer a compelling solution, particularly in urban and densely developed environments where land-based enhancements are limited. Green roofs and living walls transform under used or static spaces into vibrant habitats that can support a range of species, including pollinators, birds, and invertebrates, even in the most built up environments.

By incorporating native wildflowers, sedum species, and structural diversity elements (such as logs, pebbles, and varied planting depths), living roofs can be tailored to meet specific local biodiversity targets. Their elevation above ground level also provides ecological connections between otherwise fragmented habitats, acting as stepping stones for wildlife across the urban landscape. This is especially relevant in cities like London, where strategic green corridors are critical to local biodiversity planning.

Beyond their ecological credentials, green roofs also contribute to multifunctional green infrastructure, helping regulate temperature, absorbing rainwater, and improving air quality. This brings added value to developments while supporting the required Biodiversity Net Gain targets. With biodiversity scoring tools such as Natural England’s Biodiversity Metric, these roofs (and living walls) can be quantified to prove their contribution toward net gain requirements, ensuring developers comply with planning conditions while championing sustainable design.