Last edited 06 Apr 2022

Biodiversity in building design and construction

[edit] Introduction

Biodiversity (or biological diversity) is the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It includes:

Biodiversity sustains all life on Earth.

'Sustaining Life', edited by Chivian and Bernstein details the life available, the impacts on humans and the loss to humans and the environment from extinctions. It is widely thought that the impact of climate change will move the Earth into the sixth great extinction event over the next 50-100 years.

The term 'biodiversity action plan' refers to a nationally used programme that addresses threatened species and habitats and seeks to protect and restore biological systems.

Urban development can have a significant impact on our natural habitats. With habitat modification having been identified as one of the most important drivers of biodiversity loss, the urban environment is becoming an increasingly expanding geographical area that could be used to support wildlife.

From the introduction of green infrastructure, to the engagement and active participation of local communities and city residents, there are numerous ways in which the urban environment can be developed to promote the integration of biodiversity.

For more information see: Biodiversity in the urban environment.

Biodiversity offsetting, is a market tool which enables the off-site creation, restoration or enhancement of habitats as compensation for habitat and species loss resulting from a development.

For more information see: Biodiversity offsetting.

In December 2018, the UK government began a consultation process which proposed requiring developers to ensure habitats for wildlife are enhanced and left in a measurably better state than they were pre-development.

For more information see: Biodiversity net gain consultation.