The evolving biodiversity net gain market: Insights from Evergreen

Since Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) became mandatory in England under the Environment Act 2021, the landscape of habitat creation and nature recovery has transformed significantly. Developers are now required to deliver at least 10% biodiversity net gain for new construction projects, a policy that is reshaping the relationship between development and the natural environment.

In a recent HortWeek Podcast, our Head of Sales and Services, Emma Hindle, and Head of Business Development Brian Smith joined Rachael Forsyth to discuss how the BNG market has developed since the policy took effect — and where it’s heading next.

Ground Control, a leading provider of ready-to-buy BNG units through its expanding Evergreen habitat bank network, is seeing strong and diverse demand. While government housing targets are a major driver, Brian Smith explained that Ground Control is "not betting the farm on housebuilders."

Instead, the company works with a wide range of clients including utility providers, transport operators, and major corporates such as supermarkets. A growing voluntary BNG market is also emerging, with businesses proactively investing in nature recovery beyond mandatory requirements.

Emma Hindle noted that the market has “come on leaps and bounds” since 2021. Although developers often focus on upfront costs, Brian highlighted that BNG should be viewed through a “whole life” lens, considering the 30-year maintenance period required for these habitats.

Ultimately, both emphasised that BNG is about more than compliance: it’s about restoring biodiversity at scale and creating tangible benefits for nature and communities across the country.

The focus should always come back to nature recovery and the benefits for the country,” Emma said. “Many that had reservations initially are now taking it seriously — and the prospects over the next five years are amazing.

Listen to the full conversation on the HortWeek Podcast.