Meet your Biodiversity Net Gain obligations

The RSPB want to make sure this new system delivers as much as possible for wildlife. So, we’re now making BNG units available to developers through selected nature reserves. This means that for the first time, developers can work with the UK’s largest nature conservation charity to meet BNG requirements in a tried and trusted way, that actively restores biodiversity. 

We help developers meet BNG requirements through tailored services, including strategic advisory and access to off-site habitat units. 

Search using our BNG Habitat Bank Interactive Map.

All habitat banks have to be formally registered with Natural England. Developers are incentivised to purchase off site BNG units as close to their development as possible, so the Local Planning Authority (LPA) and National Character Areas (NCA) are useful ways to show the location of each habitat bank. Check out our active habitat banks below.

Our approach is rooted in ecological science, transparency, and long-term stewardship. Every BNG unit we offer is based on real habitat creation or enhancement. 

Any BNG projects we deliver are secured for the future, going beyond the 30-year requirement and always meeting or exceeding the 10% net gain standard.

We are one of the few providers capable of delivering Biodiversity Net Gain at scale, with the capacity to support large and complex developments across a range of habitats. Our offer is flexible, with pricing that reflects project scale, complexity, and ecological outcomes. 

Developers can be confident that our BNG units meet all legal requirements while upholding the highest standards for biodiversity outcomes. We are also a trusted name in the planning system, providing added reassurance to local authorities and developers.  

Introduced in England by the Environment Act 2021, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a policy that requires developments to leave biodiversity in a measurably better state than before any building took place. 

Most developments that apply for planning permission will need to deliver gains in their biodiversity metric score of at least 10%. This means that a development will be required to create an increase of 10% in their metric score once the development is complete.

Developers can use the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and Natural England Biodiversity Metric calculation tool to work out what they need to do under the new system. 

On this page, you’ll learn more about how we can work with your business to help you meet your BNG requirements. 

Want to learn more about BNG and how it plays a part in our planning system? Visit out Planning for Nature toolkit.

The net gain requirement in Scotland is called Biodiversity Enhancement. We believe that Biodiversity Enhancement can support priority nature restoration at scale, contributing to bigger, better and more joined up ecological networks.  

We are eager to speak with developers that share our vision and are interested in a Biodiversity Enhancement Partnership. Please contact: conservation.invest@rspb.org.uk