Biodiversity in the concrete jungle - building a greener future together

Aotearoa has a special and unique template to work from. With Te Ao Māori (the Māori world view), people’s well-being depends on the health of the environment. The reverse is also true.

“Among a host of principles, a Te Ao Māori approach to design emphasises the importance of sustainability and interconnectedness of all things,” says WSP’s Auckland-based technical director, environment Carole Smith.

Planners and designers using Te Ao Māori will consider the long-term impact of their infrastructure designs on the environment. They’ll design in a way that minimises harm to endemic plants and creatures – large and small. This approach was used with success on Auckland’s Scott Park sports field development.

In a ray of light, recent policy statements such as Te Mana o te Taiao emphasise the need to prioritise biodiversity. And internationally, the emerging TNFD framework, if adopted here, will require signatory businesses to take nature into account when making financial and business decisions.

“We’re hopeful that legislation for nature-related disclosures is introduced in Aotearoa,” says James. For now, the most important thing that could happen, he says, is for decisionmakers to be more proactive about protecting and enhancing biodiversity.

“One way to do this is to adopt the principle of biodiversity net gain, which is already in place in the UK. This would make it a requirement for all projects to provide a measurable net gain in biodiversity, ensuring that any harm is offset by significant gains.”

While legislative change may be some time coming, many private sector investors are already leading the charge in embracing sustainable and green infrastructure projects.

Institutional investors and financial institutions are increasingly balancing their financing for infrastructure with environmental and social care, says Carole.

"If you want funding for your infrastructure project, be aware that ethically focused lenders will be looking for confidence that your project will be nature positive.”

We know that changes in climate can have significant impacts on the distribution and abundance of species. This, in turn, affects the functioning of ecosystems. The UN notes that the risk of species extinction increases with every degree of warming.

Climate change can alter temperature and rainfall patterns, causing changes in vegetation and disrupting the timing of seasonal events like breeding, migration, and flowering. This can affect the availability of food and habitat for species, and lead to changes in interactions between species, such as predator-prey relationships and pollination.

As species adapt to changing climate conditions, some may shift their range to new areas. Others may become extinct if they can’t adapt quickly enough. This can result in a loss of biodiversity and the potential collapse of entire ecosystems.

On the other hand, building for biodiversity can help mitigate the impacts of climate change. Ecosystems with high biodiversity are often more resilient to changes in climate. They have a greater capacity to adapt to new conditions and maintain their ecological functions. Plus, plant and tree cover across forests, agricultural and urban areas can sequester huge amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Biodiversity not only plays a crucial role in maintaining the healthy functioning of ecosystems and limiting carbon emissions. It also powers the wheels of commerce. A study from 2013 showed that land-based ecosystem services in Aotearoa contribute a staggering $57 billion annually to the economy.

Preserving biodiversity has immense benefits for human health and well-being. It can lead to significant improvements in air quality and create better living conditions, especially in urban areas. Flourishing, biodiverse green spaces, parks, and gardens can help mitigate the urban heat island effect, offer shade, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the built environment.

Studies indicate that exposure to biodiverse environments can promote mental health and alleviate stress. Green spaces with diverse plant and animal life have been known to boost property values, with homes near these areas or with nature views tending to fetch higher prices.

Still not convinced? Consider this, says James - safeguarding and improving biodiversity today can unlock a host of opportunities in the future, including the potential discovery of new medicines, the creation of more sustainable food systems, and the protection of vital ecosystem services that enhance our well-being.

Individuals have a vital role to play in promoting biodiversity by actively participating in eradication projects and ecological restoration efforts. Cazz says one of the best ways to contribute to the protection and enhancement of biodiversity is by planting native species, removing invasive plants, and educating yourself and others about the detrimental impact of invasive species on the environment.

“Understanding which species are native to the environment and which are not is critical. Invasive species can have a profound effect on indigenous ecosystems and their inhabitants. This is especially relevant in Aotearoa, where all mammals, except bats, are non-native.”

Safeguarding and enhancing the biodiversity of Aotearoa's cherished native species is vital for our future and the well-being of our country, and planet. The message is clear. By working together, we can build a more sustainable future for ourselves, our country, and the amazing creatures that inhabit it. We all have a role to play, so let's join forces and take action to safeguard our precious biodiversity!