In recent years there has been growing recognition of the need to go beyond ‘No Net Loss’ towards ‘Net Gain’ of biodiversity. There have been many proposed approaches to this, with discussion and action already being undertaken on the Island of Ireland.

CIEEM is actively involved in discussions of the development of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) — across the UK in its various forms and recognise that there is a lack of national policy and guidance on the Island of Ireland.

Ireland Policy Group (IPG)* have developed a Briefing Note on the topic which reviews existing approaches to BNG, has set out the current situation and establishes some thoughts on how it could be implemented in an Irish context.

This document is a first step intended to initiate and inform discussion among stakeholders. CIEEM recognises this is a fast-moving landscape and will review this document as it evolves.

This briefing paper has been updated since publication in December 2023.

*The IPG is a group of 16 volunteers based on the Island of Ireland. The members of this group are nominated by the IPG and ratified then by the Strategic Policy Panel.

If you would like to join the IPG you can find more information here and complete the application form for consideration.