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FAQs

FAQs

Please find below answers to Frequently Asked Questions regarding ReNature Credits.

If there is anything not answered below, please contact Mark Alden on 01730 819303 or 07850570297

Alternatively, email ReNaturecredits@southdowns.gov.uk

General FAQs

  • What are ReNature Credits?

    Renature Credits are National Park-approved offsets, strategically selected to deliver maximum gains for nature.

    Currently we are focused on Biodiversity Net Gain units, Voluntary Biodiversity Credits, Nitrate and Phosphate Credits, though we are also looking to bring forward Carbon Credits in the near future.

    These credits are sourced from sites that we have assessed to deliver great potential for nature and will be delivered at scale (meeting the Lawton Principles of “Bigger Better and More Joined Up”) and will be delivered through trusted partners. The National Park will assure these credits by providing ongoing support to the landowner, helping them to deliver maximum benefits for biodiversity.

  • Who can purchase ReNature credits?

    Our credits are designed for a wide range of buyers, including large corporations, SMEs, and individual consumers looking to offset their environmental impact or meet regulatory requirements. Here is a general guideline:

    • BNG: developers, planners, architects, NSIPS, utility providers, land agents seeking compliance Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) for their development projects.
    • Voluntary Biodiversity Credits: Large corporations, SMEs and consumers who wish to counteract their biodiversity impact.

     

  • What is a Compliance Market?

    The compliance market is the result of a legal requirement, stipulated by Local Planning Authorities, in the approval of building developments to mitigate for any damage caused to nature and/or to meet requirements for net gains for nature.

    Depending on geography and development type, different types of Credit will be required such as Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), Phosphates and Nitrates.

    Compliance Credits brokered by the South Downs National Park Authority are termed ReNature Credits, to signal the official endorsement of the SDNPA that these Credits will be put to best use to restore nature within the boundaries of the South Downs National Park.

    • What is a voluntary market?

      The voluntary market provides a mechanism for the purchase of Nature-based Solutions by philanthropic parties. Voluntary Biodiversity credits can be sold to Corporates wishing to address nature depletion or bolster ESG credentials.

    • Why is the SDNPA getting involved?

      Through the Environment Improvement Plan (2023) [1] the government has already set a goal to raise at least £500 million in private finance to support nature’s recovery every year by 2027 in England, rising to more than £1 billion by 2030.

      The Environment Act 2021, Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended) (‘The Habitats Regulations’), provide the legislative framework for ReNature Credits. The Habitats Regulations afford the SDNPA powers as the ‘Competent Authority’ to secure mitigation land that can be utilised to deliver nitrates and phosphates offsetting. As the Local Planning Authority (LPA), and the roles and responsibilities therein, power is also afforded for BNG to be secured through the planning system.

      Mitigating for development is enshrined in law, and offsetting activities are happening across the country, including in the South Downs National Park. However, the creation of Credits is often done in a piecemeal way that doesn’t always support nature, join up habitats or think about the larger picture. In short, the market has been failing nature.

      Given its unique place as both Local Planning Authority and custodian of this special landscape, the South Downs National Park Authority can use its expertise to deliver strategic renaturing projects in partnership with landowners that have the Lawton principles at their core. By unlocking new finance for nature and supporting landowners with sustainable incomes, nature restoration can be planned and scaled in a way that has not been possible before.

      • Where are the ReNature sites and how are they chosen?

        The SDNPA benefits from a comprehensive overarching restoration vision for nature recovery in the landscape.

        In response to this, the SDNPA embarked on a public process in 2022 to identify potential nature sites through a call for sites.

        From this open process and, in collaboration with technical experts, corporate partners, statutory bodies and landowner partners, a number of strategic sites were identified as being best placed to support nature recovery at scale aligned to the overarching restoration vision for the landscape.

        The principles of our ReNature Sites were set out from the inception as:

        • Informed by our public call for nature sites.
        • Not piecemeal.
        • Led by a wider National Park/Landowner vision to deliver nature recovery at scale.
        • Informed by Lawton principles of “Bigger, Better more joined up.”
        • Complementary to the wider nature restoration vision for the landscape.
        • We will not actively pursue stacking but will consider it when financially necessary or where evidenced opportunity for renaturing gains will occur.
        • For public benefit, through increased access or improved experience where possible.
        • Matched with its nearest available development, given the criteria above.

        Please see our current ReNature Sites page to learn more about where our sites are and the vision for nature. We hope and anticipate that more sites will be added in the future.

      • How does the South Downs National Park benefit from this?

        There are a number of benefits to the SDNPA:

        1) Currently 25% of the South Downs National Park is managed for nature, and one of the three strategic goals of the National Park is to increase that to 33% by 2030; this equates to converting 13,000 hectares of land into being managed for nature. While some landowners may like the idea of giving land over to nature, it may be impossible without financial support. Through ReNature credits, landowners will no longer be penalised for wanting to do right by nature and by facilitating the process, the SDNPA can help ReNature more of the National Park.

        2) By acting as a facilitator between developers and landowners, the SDNPA plays an active role in realising the restoration visions of its landowner partners.  In exchange for guidance and consultancy services the SDNPA receives a commission that covers its costs in relation to the relevant scheme.

        3) By taking a strategic approach to nature recovery, the South Downs National Park is creating bigger, better and more joined up habitat sites across the landscape. If the SDNPA didn’t take a lead role, the alternative would be more tokenistic, piecemeal approaches, which don’t support nature recovery and don’t benefit the rural economy that plays such an important part in societal well-being.

      • Will turning land over to nature affect food production?

        It’s not financially logical for farmers to give up their best land for nature, which is why typically the land chosen to restore habitats is more marginal land.

        This land also tends to neighbour existing habitats, adding scale and connectedness in line with Lawton principles.

        Some habitat land can also still be used for low-intensity grazing with the environment as the focus rather than the livestock.

      • What does “monetising ecosystem services” mean?

        Ecosystem services come from our natural capital – our natural assets that provide valuable resources to people in a range of different ways.

        Though our economies, livelihoods and well-being rely heavily on the continued flow of these ecosystem services afforded to us by nature, these services are public goods with very few or no markets and no prices and so fall outside of our current economic compass.

        The SDNPA has identified huge potential to overcome this market failure by monetising ecosystem services in the UK by mainstreaming the market for them.

        If markets for ecosystem services can be established then we can demonstrate climate leadership, protect nature, unlock private finances to deliver nature recovery and provide alternative income streams for landowners who find their businesses are financially precarious.

      • What is offsetting?

        Offsetting (in the context of development) is the practice of counterbalancing to compensate for the impact of development.

      • Why is offsetting needed?

        Sometimes it is not possible to address the impact through on-site measures.

        The Mitigation Hierarchy is a widely utilised tool that helps guide users towards limiting the negative impacts on biodiversity from development projects.

        It emphasises best practice in avoiding and minimising negative impacts, and then restoring wherever possible before finally offsetting any residual impacts.

        When it comes to BNG a cascade of offsetting is emerging that prioritise on-site mitigation, then off site where it is strategically important and locally relevant via near-site mitigation, and finally as a last resort, ‘further away’.

        Further away would initially mean within the wider district or national landscape character and, secondarily, be national.

        Landowner FAQs

        BNG FAQs

        • What is Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)?

          Biodiversity net gain (BNG) is an approach to development, and/or land management, that aims to leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than it was beforehand.

          BNG delivers measurable improvements for biodiversity by creating or enhancing habitats in association with development. BNG can be achieved on-site, off-site or through a combination of on-site and off-site measures.

          The Environment Act 2021 makes it a requirement for relevant types of development to achieve a mandatory minimum of 10% BNG calculated through the Government’s Biodiversity Metric. This mandatory requirement is expected to ‘go live’ in November 2023 following the publish of the BNG Regulations.

          It should be noted that Local Plan Policy SD9(1)(b) requires development proposals to ‘identify and incorporate opportunities for net gains in biodiversity’. The SDNPA has published interim guidance on addressing Biodiversity Net Gain in accordance with the policy of the SDLP in the run up to the mandatory BNG requirement.

        • What role does the SDNPA play?

          The SDNPA are looking to play an active role in ensuring that any landowners who hold aspirations of reversion of their current conventional agricultural operations on their land to habitat creation is done so in line with the Lawton Principles of; “bigger, better and more joined up biodiversity”.(Lawton, 2010, Making Space for Nature)

          This is achieved through collaborative working, ensuring Restoration Visions are created harmoniously and in synergy with the Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS), the SDNP Nature Recovery Network (NRN) Mapping and the SDNP Woodland Opportunities Mapping.

          • How do I know if my project needs Biodiversity Net Gain?

            From 12 February 2024, all planning applications must comply with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements, except for the following exemptions:

            1. Small-Scale Developments

            A development is exempt if it does not impact a priority habitat and affects less than:

            • 25 square metres (5m x 5m) of on-site habitat
            • 5 metres of linear habitats (e.g., hedgerows)

            A habitat is considered “impacted” if its biodiversity value is reduced.

            1. Householder Applications

            This applies to minor home improvements, such as:

            • Extensions
            • Conservatories
            • Loft conversions

            These are defined under article 2(1) of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015.

            1. Self-Build & Custom-Build Housing

            To qualify for this exemption, a development must:

            • Consist of no more than 9 dwellings
            • Be on a site no larger than 0.5 hectares
            • Consist only of self-build or custom-build homes, as defined in section 1(A1) of the Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015
            1. Biodiversity Gain Sites

            Developments primarily designed to meet the BNG requirement for another project are exempt.

            1. High-Speed Rail Transport

            Any development that is part of, or related to, the high-speed rail network (as defined in section 1(2) of the High Speed Rail (Preparation) Act 2013) is exempt.

            1. Other Legal Exemptions (Environment Act 2021)
            • Urgent Crown developments
            • Developments granted planning permission under a development order, including permitted development rights

            Please check here for more details on exemptions.

          • What is the BNG process?

            Once you have secured a development site, we recommend hiring an ecologist that is iterative and specialises in UK habitats.

            Once the statutory metric is complete, you can then decide if you need offsite or onsite BNG.

            If you need offsite BNG, please send us your metric in it’s original form and we will get back to you promptly to see if we can help. Once the deposit is paid, this secures your BNG site. You can then proceed to the next stage of your planning application.

          • Why should I buy Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) through the South Downs National Park Authority?

            With global biodiversity in decline, the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) recognises its position to make a positive impact, and has set a target of increasing land managed for nature within the National Park to 33% by 2030.

            Evolving legislation around Nutrient Neutrality (Nitrates and Phosphates) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) creates a need for more offsetting activities, unlocking Green Finance to deliver Nature-Based Solutions.

            The SDNPA sees this as a key enabler in achieving its nature restoration target and in taking climate action that pragmatically contributes towards Net Zero.

            The South Downs National Park Authority excels in the following areas for those businesses seeking Biodiversity Net Gain:

            • Time Saving: Rapid quotes to save you time
            • Peace of Mind: Rigorous monitoring by the South Downs National Park Authority
            • Registered: All of our sites are registered with Natural England
            • Economy Boosting: All of our sites are situated in the South Downs National Park
            • Budget Friendly: Competitive Pricing
            • Legally Sound: Each site is already secured with an S106
            • Environmentally Sound: Each unit secures biodiversity gains for 30 years
            • Protection from Greenwashing: High-integrity sites provides security against greenwashing

            By utilising its experience, knowledge and statutory powers, SDNPA is well placed to act as a  facilitator, accelerating and simplifying the process for potential buyers looking to purchase ReNature Credits of the highest quality.

            SDNPA ReNature credits are sourced from strategic ReNature sites, sometimes referred to as Habitat Banks or Mitigation Sites, assured to deliver great potential for nature, meeting the Lawton Principles of “Bigger, better and more joined up.”

          • What is the difference between Onsite and Offsite BNG?

            Onsite Biodiversity Net Gain refers to biodiversity enhancements made directly on the development site. This ensures that the project contributes to biodiversity improvements where the impact occurs.

            Offsite Biodiversity Net Gain involves biodiversity enhancements made in a different location, typically through partnerships with landowners or biodiversity banks. This approach is often used when onsite measures are not feasible or sufficient to meet BNG requirements.

            It is a common misconception that BNG must be done onsite.

          • How do I know if I need onsite of offsite BNG?

            In many cases, the choice between onsite and offsite Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) comes down to preference. You should first explore all possible options to mitigate biodiversity loss onsite. If no further solutions are available, then consider an offsite approach.

            Developers often take the following factors into account:

            • Future land use – How the site will be used long-term
            • Access to green space – Ensuring benefits for communities and wildlife
            • Long-term management – Maintaining and monitoring the BNG site for 30 years
            • Nature recovery integrity – Supporting a connected and effective recovery
            • Location priorities – Choosing where biodiversity improvements will have the greatest impact

             

          • How does BNG with the South Downs National Park differ from other BNG sites?

            Nature Recovery and Access to Greenspace: The South Downs National Park, like all National Parks, are legally bound to provide nature recovery and access to greenspace. Therefore, by buying BNG with the South Downs National Park you are contributing to both.

            Ecologically sound: Nature doesn’t always grow where we want it to. Sometimes, offsite BNG is better for nature recovery. Habitats thrive on land that is ‘bigger, better, more joined up’ (see Lawton Review). Our BNG sites all adhere to this principle.

            Time-saving: All our BNG sites are already registered with Natural England and secured through S106 agreements. Once you provide us (CONTACT LINK) with the metric in its original Excel format, our quoting process is rapid and usually same day.

            Legal protection: While all BNG is required to be secured through an S106 or Conservation covenant, The South Downs National Park has an additional legal requirement. All National Parks are legally required to conserve and enhance the natural environment as part of their broader purpose. In addition, National Parks must undergo regular audits, are met with public scrutiny, and endure regular compliance checks.

            Broader Purpose: while we have a financial interest in selling BNG, all funds go directly back into the park. Our landowners are paid for these services and any commission we receive is funnelled into other National Park projects.

          • What is the catchment area for offsite BNG?

            Offsite BNG can be bought anywhere in England but the metric does encourage you to buy locally. Some BNG landowners however, can offer attractive deals for large purchases. We recommend sending us your metric when you need offsite BNG, particularly if your development is in the South.

             

          Voluntary Biodiversity Credits FAQs

          • What are Voluntary Biodiversity Credits?

            Voluntary Biodiversity Credits in the South Downs National Park are 3x3m2 ‘pixels’ of land that, through an s106, are legally secured for nature for 30 years. Using the framework from the Biodiversity Net Gain DEFRA Metric, each parcel comes with a What3Words and are recorded on a public ledger.

          • How does my business measure its biodiversity impact?

            If you are a developer, the DEFRA biodiversity metric can be found here: Statutory biodiversity metric tools and guides – GOV.UK

            For all other businesses, there is currently no nationally or internationally recognised methods for measuring your biodiversity footprint. However, all business practices do cause biodiversity loss and we need to act now to aide recovery. Voluntary Biodiversity Credits offer this solution.

          • How many Voluntary Biodiversity Credits do I need?

            The number of credits depends on the scale of your biodiversity impact and your organisation’s sustainability goals. We recommend consulting with our team to determine your requirements.

          • How often should my business buy Voluntary Biodiversity Credits?

            The frequency of purchasing VBCs depends on your business activities and sustainability objectives. We recommend making an annual assessment as part of a broader sustainability strategy.

          • Who monitors the Voluntary Biodiversity Credits?

            Each VBC has a Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan (HMMP). In the plan it is the responsibility of the landowner to maintain the VBCs and The South Downs National Park and Earthly to monitor the VBCs.

          • What additionality do you have for your Voluntary Biodiversity Credits?

            Voluntary Biodiversity Credits adhere to both Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements and the Earthly Standard.

            Biodiversity Uplift Quantification:

            • Uplift is measured using the DEFRA metric, which evaluates:
              • The uniqueness and condition of the ecosystem before restoration.
              • The improvements post-restoration.
            • The Earthly Assessment Biodiversity Pillar includes:
              • Dozens of additional indicators and requirements.
              • Standards for biodiversity restoration plan design, monitoring, and adaptive management.

            The Earthly Standard includes strict requirements for additionality, covering:

            • Financial Additionality:
              • Projects must demonstrate that the restoration plan is not financially viable without external funding from VBC sales.
              • Includes investment and/or barrier analysis to quantify financial challenges.
            • Legal Additionality:
              • Developers must prove there are no legal obligations to implement the biodiversity restoration plan.

            Barrier analysis test ensures:

            • The project is unlikely to succeed without VBC finance.
            • Existing financial models, costs, and subsidies do not support the plan effectively without external funding.
            • Other entities (e.g., public or private) would not have effectively implemented the project.

            Regular reassessment of additionality:

            • Verify if additionality considerations are up to date.
            • Confirm no new policies, measures, or activities undermine the project’s additionality.

            Analysis corroborated by historic data:

            • Land cover and land use analysis.
            • Written records of farm activities.
            • Geospatial data.

             

          • Is there any added value to Voluntary Biodiversity Credits?

            Purchasing VBCs is a tangible ESG solution. Every parcel comes with a What3Words and is placed on a national ledger, accessible to everyone. Acoustic monitoring is available for an additional cost. Please contact us at ReNatureCredits@southdowns.gov.uk for more information.

          • Why should I buy Voluntary Biodiversity Credits annually if they are secured for 30 years?

            As your business expands, so does your biodiversity footprint. Whether it is increased tech usage, expanding your employee or customer database, or moving to a bigger office, everything impacts nature. The hope is that we all adopt practices that reduce our biodiversity impact and the need to mitigate will reduce over time.

          • Is a Voluntary Biodiversity Credit an Offset?

            No. We can’t yet measure the impact a business has on biodiversity so we can’t claim VBCs as offsets. We recommend using words such as mitigate or counteract in your marketing materials.

          • Can you ‘stack’ Voluntary Biodiversity Credits on top of Carbon or Biodiversity Net Gain Units?

            Our aim is put forward the best methods for nature recovery and to ensure our landowners are adequately supported in their land use change so The South Downs National Park prohibits stacking. We have rigorous ledger control to avoid any double counting.

          Carbon FAQs

          • What is the difference between UK Carbon Credits and Credits from abroad?

            Price:

            UK credits tend to be more expensive due to higher land and project costs.

            Quality:

            UK credits are often closely monitored, ensuring alignment with national standards and ecological priorities. International credits vary widely in quality, depending on the certification body and project governance.

            Greenwashing:

            Purchasing high-quality, locally relevant credits reduces the risk of greenwashing by demonstrating a genuine commitment to sustainability.

          • Does the South Downs National Park offer Carbon Credits?

            We do not yet have carbon credits within the park however we can provide high-integrity carbon credits from elsewhere. Please contact us here for more information.

             

          Nutrient Neutrality FAQs

          For further questions, contact:

          • Email: renaturecredits@southdowns.gov.uk
          • Phone: +44 (0)1234 567890
          • Office Address: South Downs National Park Authority, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9DH

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