NATURE AND BIODIVERSITY

Society increasingly recognises the value provided by natural ecosystems. Whether cleaning air, absorbing carbon, pollinating plants, natural capital is just as – if not more – valuable than man made infrastructure and services. 

EIC’s Nature and Biodiversity taskforce explores how we can deliver “net gain” in these areas. Its environmental consultancy members have been at the forefront of these discussions and debates for some time, spearheading an emerging movement through their work with progressive clients. 

Various methods have been devised to calculate the monetary value to help determine appropriate trade-offs and the cost-effectiveness of policies to improve the environment. 

The Environment Act provides new opportunities for engagement. We expect over the coming months – and among many other measures – detail around biodiversity net gain (its impact on planning and new rules around offsetting), the delivery of local nature recovery strategies, and the launch of a national land register. It will provide a platform for EIC’s environmental consultancy members to showcase how their offering and services can help government to meet ambitions in this space. 

The taskforce informs EIC’s thought-leadership in this area, responds to government consultations, holds events, writes articles for industry press, and regularly welcomes policymakers and industry experts as guests. 

The Nature and Biodiversity taskforce meets quarterly. The chair is Juila Baker (Mott MacDonald). Sally Fraser (Jacobs) and Simon Boyle (Landmark) are vice chairs.