Biodiversity as a project lever

Understand, structure, act. IRICE is publishing a series of short articles designed to help decision-makers integrate biodiversity into real estate projects in a clear, measurable and operational way. Aimed at local authorities, project owners, developers and investors, these articles address recurring sticking points, existing tools, and concrete levers for making biodiversity a project asset, not a formal constraint. ➤ All content is written by the IRICE team based on real cases, field feedback and shared experience.

Biodiversity reference framework: what operational value for a real estate project?

Monday, March 11, 2024

In a dense and ever-changing regulatory context, technical standards are numerous. But the proliferation of guides, grids and labels sometimes confuses their role. A biodiversity reference framework is only worthwhile if it serves the project. In other words, if it helps to: arbitrate concretely, justify choices and secure relations between stakeholders. This article looks at the three operational values that a good biodiversity reference framework should offer - and how Effinature meets these requirements.

An upstream arbitration tool

In the design phase, there are many choices to be made: Should a hedge be retained? Reduce a right-of-way? Modify a layout?

A useful repository allows you to :

  • set a structured framework for discussions,
  • anticipate sensitive points,
  • integrate ecological issues without unbalancing the project.

"A good reference system doesn't constrain. It enlightens."

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A common basis for dialogue with stakeholders

Project teams are not alone. They have to convince :

  • a community,
  • a developer or promoter,
  • sometimes a jury, an investor, or local residents.

A clear frame of reference makes concrete efforts visible, enables them to be shared with partners, and allows us to speak a common language. In this sense, Effinature is not a technical document. It's a support for structured dialogue.

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The ability to account for and secure commitments

In today's projects, action is not enough. You have to be able to prove what has been done, show why it was chosen, and justify the choices made.

An independent, verifiable benchmark like Effinature :

  • provides traceability,
  • allows you to consolidate ESG or ZAN reports,
  • and provides an enforceable framework in the event of litigation or renegotiation.

"When rules are clear and shared, disagreements become discussions, not blockages."

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Conclusion

A biodiversity reference framework is not worthwhile for its own sake. Its value lies in its ability to serve a project, facilitate consultation and secure a decision.

Effinature was designed with this in mind: a neutral, structuring, flexible, yet rigorous tool - capable of adding value without creating red tape.

IRICE can help you implement it. Contact us for more information.

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