Development and the increased modernisation of our lives have caused an alarming decrease in the diversity of our natural world. There are a number of human activities which are responsible for this, including:
- Overexploitation;
- Land use change/ habitat destruction
- Introduction of invasive species;
- Pollution to air, land and water; and
- Climate change.
A culmination of these factors has led to a decline in biodiversity by an average of 69% globally (WWF). It’s important that all businesses in the built environment play their part in increasing biodiversity and creating a healthy natural world.
The WWF reports that North America lost over 20% of its species in the past century, with the US EPA noting over 1,000 additional species in endangered or threatened status in the States alone. This represents a tragedy for such a wealthy and industrialized corner of our planet. More than 200,000 native species have been identified in the United States, roughly 13 percent of the 1.5 million species worldwide currently recognized by taxonomists
As humans, we need to remember that we are both part of biodiversity and dependent on a healthy, natural world to maintain our way of life
Biodiversity - Sustainability Short
Learn about the huge opportunity that the built environment industry has to deliver biodiversity benefits on our projects
Enhancing nature on site
The construction industry has a massive opportunity to increase nature.
Nature enhancement isn’t limited to new developments. Refurbishment and maintenance scheduling for the existing built environment can significantly influence biodiversity. By incorporating ecological features and management regimes, spaces can be improved to provide habitats for wildlife whilst improving user experiences and contributing to our wellbeing.
So, how can you help?
Consider the following ideas to help you increase the amount of nature on your next project:
- Make biodiversity an intrinsic part of project delivery, from the design phase to completion there is lots that you can do.
- Consider how nature-based solutions can be used to deliver project infrastructure and provide space for nature.
- Understand your local area and develop projects which are sympathetic to, and enhance local biodiversity.
- Review your supply chains to understand where your materials come from, and how their production might have impacted biodiversity. Make changes to reduce those impacts if you can.
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