Using technology to tackle biodiversity decline – Veolia and Network Rail see results

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Biodiversity in the UK

Introduction

While biodiversity may be in decline around the world, the UK has the dubious honour of being one of the globe’s most nature-depleted countries. According to the National Biodiversity Network’s latest State of Nature report, since monitoring began in 1970, the 10,000 species studied have waned by a huge 19%. This means that less than half of the UK’s biodiversity prior to the Industrial Revolution now remains intact, with one in six species being at risk of extinction. Intensive farming and the continuing effects of climate change are the two biggest single contributors to the problem.

Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations

In a bid to address this issue, the government of England has introduced new biodiversity net gain regulations for all new road and house building projects. This means that all planning applications for major sites submitted from 12 February and for small ones from 2 April will have to demonstrate how they intend to generate a biodiversity net gain of at least 10%.

Veolia’s Approach to Biodiversity

Veolia Northern Europe, a company providing water and waste management and energy services, sees biodiversity as a serious issue. They believe in leaving the environment in a better state for future generations and have embedded environmental stewardship into their business model. They aim to create a fully circular economy that positively impacts key drivers of biodiversity loss, such as reducing the extraction of natural resources through recycling.

Monitoring Biodiversity using Leko

Veolia has developed an in-house digital listening device called Leko to improve biodiversity in the UK. The AI-based tool was trialled for just over a year at two separate locations near its Kingswood office in Birmingham. The device monitored its surroundings, identified key species, counted population numbers, and registered behavior. The trial aimed to develop a benchmark of the sites’ current biodiversity situation and adjust the local biodiversity action plan accordingly.

Findings from the trial showed that there were six times more bats and a 17-fold increase in grasshoppers in or near the unmown area, indicating that they benefit from grass remaining uncut. The trial also revealed that light pollution from a nearby office building affected the behavior of Pipestrelle bats. Veolia believes that this evidence-based approach using Leko provides valuable data for understanding and supporting the right habitats for species to flourish.

Network Rail’s Efforts in Biodiversity Monitoring

Network Rail, the owner and manager of the UK’s rail infrastructure, has partnered with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) to monitor biodiversity in its railway corridors. The partnership involves using remote technologies such as acoustic sensors and camera traps to collect data on local wildlife, particularly birds and bats. Google Cloud processes the data using machine learning models to detect anthropogenic sounds like trains. This technology allows Network Rail to make science-based decisions for targeted management and maintenance of their estate, ensuring the protection of species and habitats.

Sustainable Development Goals and Biodiversity

Biodiversity is a crucial aspect of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is essential to include biodiversity considerations from the start of any environmental initiatives or programs. Technology plays a significant role in providing the necessary information upfront for effective planning and cost-effective implementation of biodiversity measures. By prioritizing biodiversity, organizations can create well-managed green corridors that enhance connectivity between species populations and contribute to nature recovery.

Conclusion

The decline of biodiversity in the UK is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. The introduction of biodiversity net gain regulations and the use of innovative technologies like Leko and remote monitoring tools by Veolia and Network Rail demonstrate a growing commitment to addressing this problem. By integrating biodiversity into business models and decision-making processes, organizations can contribute to the achievement of the SDGs and create a sustainable future for all.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDGs Addressed:

• SDG 15: Life on Land

2. Specific Targets:

• Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species
• Target 15.9: By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies, and accounts

3. Indicators:

• No specific indicators are mentioned in the article.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Explanation:
1. The article primarily addresses SDG 15: Life on Land, which focuses on protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably managing forests, combating desertification, and halting biodiversity loss.
2. The specific targets identified based on the article’s content are Target 15.5, which aims to reduce the degradation of natural habitats and halt biodiversity loss, and Target 15.9, which calls for the integration of ecosystem and biodiversity values into planning and development processes.
3. The article does not mention any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: diginomica.com

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