Planning for Nature: The Role of Biodiversity Net Gain and Energy Efficiency
When we talk about the environment, we often focus on conservation — preserving what we have. But planning offers something even more powerful: the ability to shape new development in a way that actively improves our natural surroundings and combats climate change.
Planning for Nature: The Role of Biodiversity Net Gain and Energy Efficiency
When we talk about the environment, we often focus on conservation — preserving what we have. But planning offers something even more powerful: the ability to shape new development in a way that actively improves our natural surroundings and combats climate change.
At Boyer, we see the planning system as a vital tool in securing long-term environmental gains. From the national requirement for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) to policies that drive energy efficiency, planners have the opportunity — and responsibility — to ensure that new places work not just for people, but for the planet too.
Biodiversity Net Gain: raising the bar for nature
Introduced as a legal requirement in 2024, Biodiversity Net Gain ensures that any new development must leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than before. That means increasing habitats, improving green infrastructure, and supporting ecological networks — not just minimising harm.
Planners play a central role in making this happen. We help clients understand their obligations, work with ecologists to design effective site layouts, and guide applications through local planning policy and national frameworks.
BNG isn’t just a tick-box exercise — it’s a chance to add lasting environmental value. At Boyer, we work to make sure that enhancements such as tree planting, wetland creation, or wildflower meadows are integrated into the very fabric of a scheme, supporting both biodiversity and community wellbeing.
Energy efficiency: tackling the climate crisis at the local level
While national governments set carbon targets, it’s often planning policy — particularly at the local level — that delivers them.
By influencing building orientation, materials, and layout, planning decisions have a significant impact on a scheme’s energy performance. This goes beyond building regulations; it’s about creating places that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and are resilient to rising temperatures.
Planners support:
- Passive design strategies (e.g. natural ventilation, solar gain)
- Integration of renewable energy (solar panels, heat pumps)
- Support for active travel and low-carbon transport
- Compact and connected communities that reduce car dependency
At Boyer, we work with clients to ensure that environmental performance is not an afterthought — but part of the strategic vision from the start.
More than policy: planning for people and planet
Environmental gains through planning go well beyond compliance. They improve quality of life. Green corridors connect people with nature. Well-designed public spaces support health and biodiversity. Efficient homes reduce energy bills and carbon emissions alike.
At Boyer, we see environmental outcomes as inseparable from social value. By approaching planning with a sustainability mindset, we create places that thrive now and in the future.
Nature and Net Zero: two goals, one system
With the climate crisis and biodiversity loss increasingly intertwined, planning is one of the few systems that can tackle both simultaneously.
By embedding BNG, energy efficiency, and climate resilience into planning applications from the outset, we help clients not only meet policy requirements — but exceed them in ways that create meaningful, long-term benefit.
Need help embedding sustainability into your project?
We’d love to help. Get in touch with our team to discuss how Boyer can support you in delivering development that’s good for people — and good for nature.