Wildflowers

Landownders: How to sell BNG credits in Lincolnshire

Biodiversity and water unit creation, including for mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) supply, offers landowners a practical opportunity to secure private income by managing their land for the benefit of nature.

There are a variety of buyers for such units, including those seeking to meet voluntary, environmental regulatory, and mandatory BNG requirements. Buyers may range from housing developers and international corporations to insurance brokers and philanthropic individuals.

We work closely with landowners to assess the suitability of their land for unit creation and guide them through the process — from initial feasibility to delivery. With strong local knowledge and experience working with planning authorities and stakeholders, we offer clear, practical advice tailored to the needs of rural landowners and managers.

Butterfly

The opportunity

The BNG Market

In relation to the mandatory BNG market, planning policy now requires most developments going through local planning authorities to deliver at least a 10% net gain in biodiversity.

It is fully expected that this requirement will soon apply to Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, and developers in that space are already preparing for it.

Other investors in biodiversity and water units may include organisations seeking to meet environmental obligations or build resilience in the UK’s natural environment, helping to reduce risks to properties and businesses.

Blue tit

The demand

Growing demand for BNG units

Demand for high-quality biodiversity units is increasing — creating a new, commercially viable use for land.

By allocating areas for habitat creation and enhancement, landowners can generate a profitable income stream in return for managing their land for biodiversity. In most cases, this needs to be for a period of at least 30 years. This approach can complement existing land uses or form part of a broader diversification strategy, offering long-term financial resilience.

It is an exciting opportunity, but knowing who to trust in this emerging marketplace is a key concern. GIGL is on hand to provide realistic and practical advice that considers both ecological and financial implications.

Wetland as dusk

Benefits

How we support BNG Suppliers in Greater Lincolnshire

  • Strong local knowledge

    We understand Greater Lincolnshire’s landscapes, habitats, and planning context.

  • Clear, practical advice

    We guide you through BNG with straightforward, expert support.

  • A growing market

    BNG demand is rising — join a network of active suppliers.

  • Financial resilience

    BNG units offer long-term income from responsible land use.

  • Drive nature recovery

    Help restore habitats and biodiversity across Greater Lincolnshire.

Tree in field

How it works

Registering your land with GIGL couldn’t be simpler!

Ferns in a field

Take the next step and register your interest with us

Register your land

Frequently
asked questions

BNG credits are units of biodiversity value that can be generated by landowners through conservation and habitat enhancement projects. These credits can then be sold to developers who need to meet mandatory biodiversity requirements for their projects.

You can generate BNG credits by undertaking projects that enhance or restore natural habitats on your land. This could include activities such as planting native trees, creating wetlands, or restoring grasslands. These projects must be verified by qualified ecologists to ensure they meet the required standards for biodiversity gain.

The value depends on habitat type, ecological significance, and market demand. Our team provides guidance on pricing to maximise returns and produce the best outcomes for nature.

Selling BNG credits typically involves a legal agreement or conservation covenant, ensuring the land is managed for biodiversity gain over 30 years.

You can list your credits on our platform, and we will match you with suitable developers seeking offsets. We advise you on the transaction process to ensure compliance and transparency.

Landowners must maintain and monitor habitat improvements in line with agreed management plans. Regular reporting and potential site inspections may be required.

It depends on the type of biodiversity improvement – we’re happy to discuss this with you.

If you have land that you are interested in using for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), please fill in this form to provide us with more information. One of our team members will then get in touch to discuss the next steps.