England has recently introduced biodiversity legislation
In a world first, England has recently introduced legislation requiring all new developments to boost nature.
The biodiversity net gain law (BNG) came into force on February 12th, 2024 and ensures that habitats for wildlife are left in a measurably better state than they were before the development. New habitats must also deliver a 10% biodiversity gain, rather than simply replacing what has been lost.
The Royal Institute of British Architects said that the law represents a 'major change' for architects, who would now have to “design with nature”.
Scotland, Sweden and Singapore are among the nations reportedly set to follow England’s example.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms, from plants and animals to microorganisms, that are found within a particular ecosystem.
In gardens, biodiversity plays a crucial role in supporting healthy ecosystems, providing essential ecosystem services, and enhancing overall resilience to environmental change.
How we can all introduce biodiversity into our gardens
In today's rapidly urbanising world, preserving biodiversity is more important than ever. One way that we can all contribute to biodiversity conservation is by creating wildlife-friendly gardens. By incorporating native plants, providing habitat features and practicing sustainable gardening techniques, we can transform our outdoor spaces into a haven for wildlife.
The benefits of biodiverse gardens
Supporting pollinators: biodiverse gardens provide essential habitat and food sources for pollinators such as bees, butterflies and hoverflies. By attracting these pollinators, we can increase fruit and vegetable yields, and promote overall garden health.
Natural pest control: a diverse range of plants attracts beneficial insects and predators that help to control garden pests naturally, reducing the need for harmful chemical pesticides.
Enhancing soil health: biodiverse gardens contribute to healthy soil ecosystems by fostering diverse microbial communities, and improving soil structure and fertility.
Climate resilience: gardens with high biodiversity are more resilient to climate change impacts such as extreme weather events, pests and diseases.
The key elements of a biodiverse garden
A biodiverse garden needs a variety of native plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Native plants provide food and habitat for local wildlife and are well-suited to thrive in our gardens without the need for excessive watering or chemical inputs.
Creating a wildflower meadow or area of naturalised planting will support pollinators and other wildlife. Choose a mix of native wildflowers that bloom at different times throughout the year to provide a continuous food source.
Article: Top 10 British native wildflowers
The installation of a small pond, birdbath or water feature will attract amphibians, birds and other wildlife. (A shallow area with sloping sides provides easy access for animals to drink and bathe).
You can incorporate habitat structures such as log piles, rockeries and bird boxes which will provide shelter, nesting sites and refuge for wildlife.
Different species have varying habitat requirements, so diversity in structure is key.
Practical tips for creating biodiverse gardens
Reduce lawn areas: this tip will not be for everyone, but minimising lawn areas and replacing them with flower beds, meadows or wildlife-friendly planting areas will really help with creating biodiversity in your garden, as lawns provide limited habitat and food for wildlife, compared to diverse plantings. And... another upside to this will be less mowing! If you don't want to replace your lawn entirely, you can always make a section of your lawn into a wildlife-friendly area.
Compost and mulch: create your own compost from kitchen and garden waste to enrich soil fertility naturally. Use mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds and provide habitat for soil organisms.
Avoid chemical pesticides: stop the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides, which can harm beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife. Instead, use natural alternatives such as companion planting, hand weeding and biological controls.
Provide food and shelter: plant a mix of flowering plants, shrubs and trees to provide a diverse range of food sources and shelter for wildlife throughout the year. Choose plants with different heights, shapes, and flowering times to maximise biodiversity.
Leave the dead wood: leaving dead wood in your garden makes a habitat for insects, fungi and small mammals. Fallen branches, logs and tree stumps provide important shelter and food sources for a variety of species.
Creating a biodiverse garden is a very rewarding way to connect with nature, promote wildlife conservation and contribute to a healthier planet. By incorporating native plants, providing habitat features, and practicing sustainable gardening techniques, we can all create thriving ecosystems in our own gardens - however big or small our outdoor spaces are.
There are always endless opportunities to enhance biodiversity and enjoy the beauty and benefits of a biodiverse garden.
Carl Dodd, Property Revolutions Ltd.
