WC Link briefing: No more loopholes: Making BNG work better for nature
In February 2026, Wildlife and Countryside Link (WC Link) published this briefing on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), challenging the inappropriate application of the de minimis exemption and calling for the loophole to be closed.
The IES endorsed the briefing, as it reaches similar conclusions to the work done by our Environmental Policy Implementation Community (EPIC) on Biodiversity Net Gain in Practice. While the IES does not support the new 0.2ha exemption to BNG, we agree with WC Link that it has rendered the de minimis exemption redundant.
- Find out more about WC Link's work around BNG on their website.
- Find out more about how we support an evidence-informed approach to implementing BNG through our Environmental Policy Implementation Community.
- If you want to support our work to embed science in the approach to protecting biodiversity, join the IES or become an Affiliate.
Header image credit: © Kaja via AdobeStock
