As well as being a mandatory requirement for any development that effects a habitat, restoration also comes with a number of additional benefits. These benefits are largely the reason why the regulations came about, but they can also help to safeguard your assets and work towards environmental targets.
The Benefits for People
Natural habitats play an important role in our everyday lives. Forests provide fresh, clean air, but their roots also serve as a stopgap for erosion – preventing subsidence and keeping our properties and communities intact.
Wetlands, on the other hand, offer a vital location for irrigation and water purification. Without this, much more would need to be spent on ensuring good quality for our water.
On a similar note, flood plains act as a buffer zone, preventing overflowing rivers and excessive rain from causing damage to houses and infrastructure.
Even without these societal benefits, the UK’s habitats are a huge part of our heritage. From nature reserves to ancient woodland, there are many different places of extreme natural beauty that need to be protected to ensure our heritage, wildlife, and countrywide aesthetics live on.
The Benefits for Ecosystems
Ecosystems rely on a balance between habitat and wildlife. Habitat is more than just location – it’s the building up of food, shelter, and the conditions required to sustain a variety of life. The wildlife, both flora and fauna, rely on specific habitats to survive and thrive.
Habitat restoration, therefore, works to allow these ecosystems to continue on. Whether this is through replicating them in an appropriate location, or through protecting their existing one, habitat restoration aims to ensure better outcomes for wildlife.
Keep the location of the ecosystem in mind is important, as this can have a knock-on effect to other things in the area (such as erosion or the local look and feel), and it can also affect the patterns and survival of migratory species.
Since BNG regulations require a 10% increase to biodiversity, the benefits our ecosystems receive from habitat restoration should be obvious. So long as the proper diligence and methods are carried out, all life in the UK stands to gain from habitat restoration efforts.
The Benefits for the Planet
The grand scheme of habitat restoration is a net positive effect on the planet as a whole. The main ways this is achieved are:
Habitat protection and restoration meaning more varied and stable ecosystems
Diversity for flora and fauna, supporting the lifecycle and enabling them to thrive
Re-greening and woodland restoration leading to fresher air and reduced carbon
Maintenance for grounds and woodlands (such as through tree surgery) ensuring the longevity of natural spaces
Overall, since habitat restoration provides benefits for people, places, and the planet, it is clear to see its importance. The next step, then, is to find methods and providers for habitat restoration so that your efforts aren’t in vain and that the ecosystems you help build will last for years to come.
For professional habitat restoration that makes an impact, contact us today.