On 12 February 2026, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) marked its second anniversary.

BNG became mandatory in England on 12 February 2024 for most major developments under the Environment Act 2021. Since then, it has reshaped how housing, commercial and infrastructure projects consider biodiversity within the planning process.

What Is Biodiversity Net Gain?

Biodiversity Net Gain requires most new developments in England to leave biodiversity in a measurably better state than before development began.

Developers must demonstrate at least a 10% increase in biodiversity value compared to the site’s baseline condition, secured and managed for a minimum of 30 years. Where this cannot be achieved on-site, developers can fund habitat creation or enhancement elsewhere through the purchase of biodiversity units.

What Has Changed Over Two Years?

Biodiversity Is Now a Legal Requirement

Since February 2024, measurable biodiversity improvement has become a statutory element of the planning process for most developments. This has encouraged earlier ecological input and greater consideration of:

  • Retaining existing habitats

  • Enhancing green infrastructure

  • Incorporating trees, hedgerows and planting schemes

  • Designing around ecological features

As a result, biodiversity is increasingly embedded in the design stage rather than addressed later in planning.

Increased Habitat Creation and Enhancement

BNG has also increased focus on habitat creation and enhancement. Developments are now more likely to include:

  • Species-rich grasslands

  • Woodland planting

  • Wetlands and sustainable drainage habitats

  • Meadows and wildflower areas

These measures help replace and enhance habitats affected by development while supporting wider ecological networks.

Stronger Integration of Nature in Development

BNG has promoted a more integrated relationship between development and the natural environment. Design strategies increasingly include:

  • Green corridors and habitat connectivity

  • Retention of mature trees and hedgerows

  • Biodiverse landscaping

  • Multi-functional green infrastructure

This approach improves ecological resilience and contributes to more attractive, environmentally responsive developments.

Ongoing Challenges

The first two years have also brought challenges, including:

  • Capacity pressures within local planning authorities

  • Variations in interpretation between councils

  • Uneven availability of biodiversity units in some regions

Despite this, BNG is now firmly embedded within England’s planning system.

Looking Ahead

Two years on, Biodiversity Net Gain represents a significant shift in how development balances growth with environmental responsibility. New developments must now deliver a measurable improvement for nature, rather than simply mitigating harm.

Its long-term success will depend on consistent implementation, effective monitoring and enforcement, and the long-term management of habitats over the required 30-year period.