Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a way of creating and improving natural habitats. BNG ensures new developments have a positive impact on biodiversity of at least a 10% increase compared to the biodiversity prior to development; it must be maintained for a minimum period of 30 years.

A developer built a housing development where a meadow used to be. The developer must ensure they make up for the impact on that habitat, as well as deliver a 10% increase in biodiversity.

A minimum of 10% biodiversity net gain must be made for at least 30 years, either onsite, offsite or by buying statutory credits as a last resort (this has to be approved).

Classification of the type, distinctiveness, condition, connectivity and strategic significance of habitats by a professional prior to and post development.

BNG credits have a range of prices dependent on the habitat that is being disturbed, they are categorised into low, medium and high habitat distinctiveness (HD), as well as broad and specific habitat type and, finally, tier. Credits start at a cost of £42,000.