#48 - Unlocking Biodiversity Net Gain: Insights and Challenges for Ecologists

Join Richard Dodd and repeat guest Julia Baker on the final Ecology Academy podcast of 2024 as they delve into the significant legal changes surrounding biodiversity net gain in 2024. This episode explores the roles of ecologists, developers, and local authorities in implementing these new practices, focusing on both small and large-scale projects. Discover what practitioners have learned over the year, the challenges faced, and the collaborative efforts across various sectors to enhance our natural environments. Julia shares her personal experiences and highlights the importance of early engagement in development projects. The episode also covers the need for effective communication and training to support all stakeholders involved, and how case studies are now starting to emerge as valuable resources for best practice. Don't miss out on this informative discussion about biodiversity conservation, the regulatory landscape in different regions, and the outlook for the coming year. Whether you're an experienced ecologist or new to the field, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the evolving world of biodiversity net gain. Wishing you Happy Holidays too and see you in the New Year! --- Julia is the Technical Director of Nature Services at Mott MacDonald. Julia is the lead author of the UK’s Good Practice Principles on Biodiversity Net Gain, and has designed BNG for several infrastructure developments including transport, energy and housing. Julia was named on the ENDS Power List in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and is Chair of the ICE’s Nature and Biodiversity Taskforce. Link to the Mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain - New Guidance for Practitioners from IEMA: https://www.iema.net/resources/blogs/2024/06/mandatory-biodiversity-net-gain-new-guidance-for-practitioners-from-iema-june-2024/