ACAN Ecology Group
We are focused on the challenges facing “wild things” in a time of critical biodiversity decline and habitat loss. We are working to raise awareness of the impacts of the architectural profession and construction industry on nature, and to support the vital shift towards a new form of professionalism dedicated to ecological regeneration.
Towards these aims, we promote multidisciplinary knowledge sharing by collaborating with experts and professionals with a greater understanding and appreciation of natural systems. From these collaborations, we campaign for the betterment of wildlife and ecosystems, and seek to move away from Anthropocentric practices.
Group Coordinators
Ruby Sleigh
Ruby is a London-based architect and animal rights activist.
Sian Berkeley
Sian is a Bristol-based sustainability manager with LDA landscapes.
CURRENT PROJECTS & CAMPAIGNS:
Planning and Infrastructure Bill
An Open Letter To Government Regarding Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
ACAN Ecology have signed an open letter to government regarding Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and a possible reduction in its powers due to be announced in the coming days.
BNG & Beyond
Last autumn we ran a webinar series ‘BNG and Beyond’, to delve into the recent mandatory biodiversity net gain legislation and its impacts. The series of 3 webinars are now available to view on the ACAN YouTube channel.
A minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity is now mandatory for all new developments in the UK. Now half a year into this groundbreaking and ecologically promising policy, how is the policy working and impacting outcomes so far?
We will explore the background and intentions of the policy, the opportunities and early success stories and some of the potential pitfalls or loopholes that still require addressing. Our goal is to create an engaging discussion, a space of learning and a critical reflection on the policy and its wider implications.
RESOURCES & LINKS
ACAN Ecology | BNG and Beyond
We review the new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) policy half a year on. How does it work, where does it struggle and how could it work better?
ACAN Ecology | BNG In Practice
Explore how Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) works in action with real-world case studies. Hear from our expert panel:
– Gary Grant, Green Infrastructure Consultancy, will look in detail at green roof design for biodiversity and ecological regeneration.
– Eleanor Trenfield, EDLA, will reflect on their work under the new policy from a Landscape Architect’s perspective.
– Asia Milewska, LDA Design, will be guiding us through the process of BNG in construction via the Lee Valley Ice Rink project, North London.
ACAN Ecology | BNG and Beyond
Explore the value of Biodiversity Net Gain beyond legislation with insights from:
– Kai Liebetanz (UKGBC)
– Gemma Jerome (Building with Nature)
– Ian Houlston (LDA Design)
– James Peplow Powell (Feral Partnerships)
