Green infrastructure
Building with Nature
The Building with Nature benchmark provides a set of standards which define high quality GI, from design right the way through to management and maintenance. The standards are voluntary and free to use, but developers can apply to have their schemes assessed and accredited, and policy makers can also have their policy/strategy documents accredited.
Standards and accreditation
The Standards provide a tool to meet diverse planning policy requirements including biodiversity net gain, and high quality GI providing multiple environmental, social and economic benefits. The Standards respond to the climate, ecological and health crisis, and ensure that developments go above and beyond minimum policy requirements.
Accreditation provides an independent stamp of quality, which can provide a number of benefits to our clients such as reduced planning uncertainty, enhanced reputation and stakeholder/public support, a smoother/faster planning permission, uplifted property value, and delivering on Corporate Environmental and Social Responsibility.
What type of development is Building with Nature for?
BwN Standards can be used for every type and scale of development across the UK, including residential, commercial, and community infrastructure development.
There are two types of BwN Award for physical development:
There are two types of BwN Award for physical development:
BwN Design Award
is used to accredit projects at an early stage of design, for example an outline planning application in larger schemes
BwN Full Award
is used to accredit projects at a more detailed stage of design and
includes a post-construction check.
What are the standards?
Core
providing multifunctional and connected GI which responds to climate change, maximises environmental net gains, responds to local context, creates distinctive places and secures effective place-keeping.
Wellbeing
brings nature closer to people and supports equitable and inclusive
places.
Water
delivers climate resilient water management and brings water closer to people.
Wildlife
delivers wildlife enhancement and underpins nature’s recovery.
Approved assessors
Development must comply with all 12 standards to achieve the award/accreditation. Our assessor will work with you to gather all relevant information required and submit an application to Building with Nature for auditing.
Our BwN Approved Assessor will be able to advise you on the eligibility of your project for a BwN Award and offer an Initial Review to determine the best way forward.
Why developers choose Ethos?
A wealth of knowledge
On regulation and building with nature standards.
Experienced Surveyors
Our team includes highly experienced, skilled surveyors.
Proven Track Record
Extensive experience conducting building with nature assessments and submission of application for auditing.
Proportionate Approach
We deliver tailored solutions that balance ecological requirements with development objectives and always consider the most practical solution.
Timely Reporting
We provide clear, comprehensive reports to support planning applications.
Rapid site visit availability
Ensuring minimal delays to development timelines preventing costly delays.
Receive a detailed breakdown
for your project
We provide tailored solutions to help you deliver high-quality, sustainable green spaces. Contact us today to discuss your needs. Whether you require:
Biodiversity net gain
Policy advice
Full strategy
Ecological assessments.
