Big biodiversity challenge CIRIA

CIRIA's BIG Biodiversiy challenge for more info see https://www.bigchallenge.info/

Since 2013 CIRIA’s BIG Biodiversity Interest Group, has invited the construction industry to add biodiversity enhancements to construction sites, developments or existing buildings, regardless of size, and whether permanent or temporary with the best enhancements gaining recognition at an awards ceremony.

With 750+ project case studies received to date the Challenge is continuing to gain recognition. Biodiversity improvement have included installing bug hotels and bat boxes, restoring riverbanks and wildflower meadows and delivering detailed biodiversity action plans. Doing just one thing really can make a BIG difference in helping to reverse the decline of Biodiversity in the UK.

The BIG Biodiversity Challenge 2022 was officially launched with a webinar at the end of March 2022. From 2022, the Challenge and Awards will be overseen by CIRIA’s newly created Biodiversity Community of Practice – comprising a growing network of industry experts from clients, contractors and consultants, engaged with biodiversity developments, achievements in the industry, government initiatives and more.

The BIG Biodiversity Challenge Awards are divided into eight categories:

• Client-led award – sponsored by Kier
• Construction phase award – sponsored by National Highways
• Community engagement award – sponsored by Arcadis
• Habitat creation: Project of year award – small scale (below 5ha) – sponsored by TrustMgt
• Habitat creation: Project of year award –medium-large scale (5ha or over) – sponsored by Thames Water
• Innovation award – sponsored by Heathrow
• Biodiversity legacy award – sponsored by Arc Consulting
• Pollinator award – sponsored by EHM Ltd

There will be one judges overall winner (prize sponsored by Wildflower Turf Ltd) for the enhancement that demonstrates an outstanding commitment to biodiversity.

Chris Griffiths, Head of Product Sustainability, Marshalls Plc and 2022 launch event sponsor said “As the construction sector accelerates its transition to become a truly sustainable industry, it’s clear that many of the best solutions are nature based. Marshalls has long recognised the need to balance hard and soft landscaping to create climate resilient spaces; the #BIGAwards will shine a spotlight on great examples of projects that have successfully integrated biodiversity into their design and construction and celebrate the ingenuity of organisations and individuals who are committed to building positive futures for everyone.”

Dr Martina Girvan, Technical Director – Ecology, Arcadis and 2022 sponsor commented “Arcadis are delighted to be sponsoring and supporting the BIG Biodiversity Challenge and Awards which promote innovation, collaboration and knowledge sharing within the industry. Only by working together can we deliver the best results for biodiversity and for ourselves, as we rely upon biodiversity to secure our quality of life, for today and for the future.”

For further information about how to enter, and gain inspiration from past entries, visit https://www.bigchallenge.info/

The BIG Biodiversity Challenge 2022 Awards ceremony will take place in September.

Article based on press release for immediate release 29 March 2021.

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