UK Government Advances Marine Net Gain Policy for Biodiversity Recovery
Marine Net Gain (MNG) aims to offset damages to marine habitats due to specific activities such as offshore wind farms and dredging. In 2023, the UK government confirmed its support for MNG but acknowledged the need for further work on delivery metrics.
MNG is designed to ensure developers mitigate harm and fund projects that deliver measurable ecological gains. While Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has achieved £1.2 billion in units on the Gaia Marketplace, MNG is still under development, with a formal consultation conducted in 2022.
MNG seeks to protect marine environments affected by development, promoting strategic interventions and restoration of habitats like seagrass meadows and kelp forests. The policy is essential as offshore wind demand rises, and it aims to enhance marine biodiversity while supporting coastal communities and industries reliant on healthy marine ecosystems.
