To enhance ecological value of the area associated with the site in support of local, regional and national priorities.

• Improve local biodiversity by increasing the quality, connectivity, density and coverage of natural spaces:
  • Provide corridors for wildlife to survive and flourish
  • Introduce and reinforce local native flora or plant species
  • Contribute to the protection and restoration of biodiversity
  • Help to improve the health, wellbeing and potentially the productivity of occupants, users and neighbours through the provision of recreational space and an increased connection between people and the natural environment (biophilia).
• Increase property values by increasing the amenity and desirability of living and working in the local area.
• Raise awareness of the benefit of interacting with the natural environment.
• Support local, national and international efforts to halt the loss of habitats and biodiversity by recognising biodiversity net gain.
• Provide reliable solutions to address public concern for wildlife and biodiversity loss.

Improving the ecological value of a site post-development through the introduction of appropriate flora and fauna, the creation and enhancement of biodiversity (species and habitats) and wildlife corridors, can have major benefits on local, regional or national biodiversity. BREEAM focuses on rewarding enhancement of local biodiversity, on the site under development or, where that is not possible, in the wider area (within the site's 'Zone of Influence'). This issue provides a route for addressing the growing industry and Government drive for biodiversity net-gain (see LE category summary), using robust methodologies based on the industry-recognised Defra Biodiversity Metric, which is supported by good and best ecological practice.