Nutrient Neutrality NN
"Nutrient neutrality is a means of ensuring that a development plan or project does not add to existing nutrient burdens within catchments, so there is no net increase in nutrients as a result of the plan or project. Where neutrality measures are needed, the purpose of these mitigation measures is to avoid impacts to the designated sites, rather than compensating for the impacts once they have occurred. This document has been produced by Natural England to provide further details on the key principles that underpin nutrient neutrality, the mitigation measures employed for it to meet the requirements of the Habitat Regulations and the application of nutrient neutrality within England."
Ref https://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/5031421117988864
The Environmental Audit Committee. Environmental sustainability and housing growth: Sixth Report of Session 2024–26 HC 439 describes Nutrient Neutrality (NN) as being achieved "when additional nutrients introduced into a waterway are balanced by measures to prevent an overall increase in nutrient levels. Housing developments are a common source of excess nutrients, often through sewage and wastewater. These nutrients typically include compounds such as nitrogen and phosphorous, which can trigger excessive algal growth. This can deplete levels of oxygen in the water, kill aquatic life and degrade ecosystems. The nutrient neutrality policy requires that all housing developments, in designated areas, must not increase nutrient pollution in nearby water catchments."
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