Amid the rush to meet biodiversity net gain (BNG) mandates, UK developers’ rigid approaches are proving costly, according to new findings from AiDash, a climate tech Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) company. The company has calculated that relying on traditional BNG methods is costing UK developers in excess of £300,000 daily, amounting to £12 million since regulations took effect on 12th February this year.
With more than 150,000 BNG project applications expected annually, potential additional costs are substantial: over £5m monthly for small sites and nearly £1m for standard sites. If developers continue with outdated BNG methods, costs could soar to £62m by year-end, AiDash has reported.
AiDash’s analysis highlights the high expense of traditional methods like ground-based ecological surveys and low-resolution mapping, versus using satellite and AI technology.
Errors from traditional approaches, such as inaccurate BNG baselines, can lead to delays and rejections. A 40% shortfall of qualified ecologists in the UK exacerbates these risks, pressuring developers to meet new regulations.
AiDash also expressed concerns that many mid-small developers underestimate the changes needed, submitting applications without biodiversity baselines or BNG plans, causing delays from eight weeks to months.
Incorrect biodiversity baselines can also lead to application rejections, risking entire projects. Additionally, assuming BNG credits are readily available and affordable is flawed, as credit costs vary from £42,000 to £650,000 based on habitat rarity.
Innovative technologies using AI and satellite imagery can ensure accurate habitat mapping and compliant BNG plans, offering a faster, more affordable alternative.
“BNG is critical for the UK environment, but developers face huge unnecessary costs due to outdated approaches,” said Shashin Mishra, VP of EMEA, AiDash. He urged a shift towards integrating AI and satellite technology to enhance ecologists’ work, ensuring cost-effective and successful development.
“It’s clear that developers must embrace new technologies to unlock significant savings and ensure the continued delivery of new developments and BNG,” Mishra added.
