Tools: Offset measures and programmes
Biodiversity offsets are programmes intended to compensate for residual, unavoidable damage to biodiversity. Such programmes strive to avoid an overall net loss of biodiversity.
For some countries compensatory programmes for particularly wearing activities, such as building production halls, are legally regulated. One example is Germany, where offset measures are supported through nature conservation laws, building codes governing mitigation, and compensation regulations. In countries without obligatory regulations, companies can voluntarily participate in such programs in order to gain the support of local authorities and NGOs.
Management Cycle Stages
Using a systematic management “plan-do-check-act” cycle to implement a corporate biodiversity management process allows for proper business orientation, for example, as is used when part of the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) or ISO 14000.
Finding the business-specific relationship between company and biodiversity is, however, made more difficult by the complexity and extent of biodiversity (ecosystem, species, and genetic pool). The criteria “rareness” and “endangerment” of species and habitats act as a point of orientation. Aids in determining such threats to biodiversity such as the “Red List”, the European Union’s Habitats Directive along with the EU’s Birds Directive and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Scientific expertise is often required in cases where specific plans are made. This is an area where local environment and nature conservation groups can provide businesses with technical know-how, representing an opportunity to deepen the cooperation with regional NGOs.
Act - A
Take corrective action
Do - D
Implement action plans
