ILM feature in CIEEM In Practice Magazine: Exploring the Role of Grassland Habitats in BNG
We’re excited to share that Integrated Land Management’s Sam Paske & Melanie Bachelier have contributed to the latest issue of CIEEM In Practice—the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management’s leading industry magazine.
Their feature article takes a deep dive into the importance of grassland habitats in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), exploring how developers, landowners, and ecologists can navigate trading rules, habitat creation, and long-term management.
What’s Covered in the Article?
The introduction of mandatory BNG has placed new pressures on developers to secure biodiversity units, while also creating opportunities for landowners to enhance their land and generate long-term income. This article explores the practicalities, challenges, and opportunities of grassland habitats within BNG, including:
✓ The rising demand for grassland biodiversity units – Grasslands accounted for 45.9% of ILM’s unit enquiries last year, making them one of the most sought-after habitat types for off-site biodiversity units. But what makes grasslands so valuable in the Statutory Biodiversity Metric?
✓ How BNG trading rules impact developers – Securing biodiversity units isn’t just about availability—it’s about trading rules, habitat distinctiveness, and offsetting requirements. The article breaks down how grassland habitats fit into this system and what developers need to consider when purchasing units.
✓ The practicalities of establishing and managing grassland habitats – What does it take to create a high-quality grassland habitat? The feature outlines key considerations for landowners, from site selection and habitat enhancement to the importance of ongoing monitoring and compliance.
✓ Conservation grazing and long-term biodiversity management – British Longhorn cattle are playing a crucial role in ILM’s grassland management strategy, helping to maintain species-rich landscapes while ensuring habitats meet their target condition for biodiversity units.
✓ Opportunities for landowners – Many landowners are looking at BNG as a way to diversify their income while making a positive impact on biodiversity. But what does the process actually involve, and how can landowners ensure their sites are viable for off-site BNG? This article explores the steps involved in registering a Biodiversity Gain Site and generating biodiversity units for sale
Read the Full Feature
CIEEM In Practice is a key publication for ecologists, developers, and land managers so it’s fantastic to see ILM’s expertise shared with the wider industry.
📩 Want to read the full article? Download it here.
Stay Updated on BNG
ILM is at the forefront of Biodiversity Net Gain, helping landowners and developers navigate this evolving policy. Keep an eye on our website and LinkedIn for more insights into BNG policy, biodiversity trading, and gain site development.
📩 Contact us today to discuss off-site biodiversity units or landowner opportunities!
