About Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) for developments

Putting Nature First: Biodiversity Net Gain in Ireland

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a growing environmental approach that ensures new developments actively improve the natural environment, rather than just reducing harm. While it became a legal requirement in the UK in 2024, Ireland is now exploring how similar policies could support our shared goal of reversing biodiversity loss.

BNG aims to leave the environment at least 10% better off by not only protecting and restoring what’s already there, but by creating new habitats—such as woodland, hedgerows, wetlands, or grassland—within or beyond the boundaries of a development site.

Reversing Nature Loss in Ireland

Ireland, like many countries, is experiencing a significant biodiversity decline. With over half of our native species under pressure and habitats becoming increasingly fragmented, cherished wildlife such as the curlew, red squirrel, and lesser horseshoe bat are now considered threatened. Pollinators, including wild bees and butterflies, are also in serious decline, putting both ecosystems and agriculture at risk.

At Ground Control, we’ve been working to reverse this trend. Since 2021, we've developed and restored habitats at our nature recovery sites—including woodlands, hedgerows, ponds, and grasslands—designed to create thriving spaces for Irish biodiversity.

Trusted Experts in Biodiversity Delivery

Whether you're a developer seeking off-site BNG units, a landowner exploring the potential of your land for habitat creation, or in need of a biodiversity baseline survey or habitat management plan, Ground Control brings deep ecological expertise and a proven track record.

We’re proud to support projects that not only meet environmental targets, but genuinely restore and protect nature for generations to come.

Case studies