01/05/2025
A very late April podcast release, but so worth the wait 😀
https://theecologyacademy.podbean.com/e/exploring-net-benefit-for-biodiversity-with-craig-llewellyn/
Join us as we delve into the world of ecology with special guest Craig Llewellyn CEcol MCIEEM CSJK, Associate Ecologist and Biodiversity Policy Specialist at AtkinsRéalis. In this first part of a two-part series, we focus on the concept of 'Net Benefit for Biodiversity' within Planning Policy Wales. Discover how this policy aims to enhance biodiversity at a broader ecosystem level using the innovative DECCA framework.
Craig shares his extensive experience and insights on the ecological assessment process, comparing the Welsh net benefit approach to England's biodiversity net gain. Learn about the components of the DECA framework—Diversity, Extent, Condition, Connectivity, and Adaptation to Change—and how they play a crucial role in sustainable development. Tune in to understand how ecological policies are evolving to meet current and future challenges in biodiversity conservation.
Background to NBB
Unlike the quantitative approach of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) for development in England, NBB takes a more site-specific and qualitative assessment based on the DECCA resilience attributes and the step-wise mitigation hierarchy.
Diversity – Maintaining and enhancing diversity at all levels and scales
Extent – Incorporating measures to maintain and increase semi-natural habitat area and linkages
Condition – The condition affected by factors like climate change, invasive species, recreation, etc.
Connectivity – Maintaining/creating links between and within habitats
Aspects of resilience – The product of the above four attributes
Any proposed biodiversity enhancements must be appropriate to the local and national environment, considering strategic plans, local strategies, and evidence like area statements.
Ecologists need to take a “whole system approach” looking at the baseline biodiversity value and resilience of the entire site, its context in the wider landscape, and opportunities for enhancing resilience in line with the DECCA attributes.
A key principle of NBB is that biodiversity enhancement should be proportionate to the scale and nature of the proposed development.
While this means small developments can more easily deliver net benefit, it also means planning permission may be refused if no enhancement is proposed as part of an application.
Developers in Wales will need to be aware of NBB and the Section 6 Duty. This brings additional complexity and cost to the development process.
Following the DECCA ecosystem resilience principles and step-wise avoidance/mitigation approach needs to be a central consideration from the very start of the development planning process. Innovative solutions, partnership working, and an appreciation of cumulative impacts in the wider area will all help deliver biodiversity benefits.
