The development industry plays a key role in shaping the spaces where we live, work, and relax. An integral part of this sector is green spaces, which intertwine with urban developments to create a coherent and harmonious whole. As construction projects continue to grow, so does the need to understand and protect biodiversity. But what does this mean in practice, and why is it worth integrating this aspect into a company’s strategy? Aleksandra Lorek shares her insights.
The impact of the construction industry on shaping biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the richness of life forms on Earth – it encompasses all plant, animal, and microbial species, as well as the ecosystems that sustain them. It is thanks to biodiversity that we enjoy clean air, access to water, food, raw materials, and a stable climate. In short, biodiversity ensures ecological balance and supports the functioning of our planet.
It’s no secret that business, in its broadest sense, has a significant impact on biodiversity – both positive and negative. The construction industry interferes with natural areas, which can lead to environmental degradation. That’s why it is essential to minimize the potential negative impact on the local natural environment as early as the planning stage and to incorporate this aspect into the overall business strategy.
Developers play a key role in shaping environmental quality – their decisions regarding land revitalization, appropriate planting, and ecosystem protection have a direct impact not only on the visual landscape but also on soil restoration and improvement. Responsible landscape design is therefore both a component of sustainable practices and a practical tool for regenerating degraded areas. See how we revitalized a former industrial site in Warsaw’s Targówek district.
Companies are increasingly incorporating environmental considerations into their strategies, driven by growing awareness of climate change and by legal regulations applicable to organizations subject to reporting obligations. Among the key legal requirements related to biodiversity protection that affect businesses are:
- NFRD (Non- Financial Reporting Directive) – directive on non-financial reporting,
- CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) - directive on sustainability reporting,
- Taksonomia Unii Europejskiej (UE) - classification of sustainable activities.
Reporting as an obligation and benefits for organizations
Reporting obligations arising from the EU's ecological transformation strategy are commitments that require businesses to implement actions that come with high costs. At the same time, implementing a strategy that includes, among other things, biodiversity protection brings numerous benefits for companies, contributing to building a competitive edge.
Caring for natural resources as part of a company's strategy is an investment that ensures its long-term growth and stability in the future. ESG reporting in accordance with the CSRD and the EU Taxonomy significantly influences business operations, while simultaneously supporting conscious management of their impact on biodiversity. In the long run, this is not only a requirement but also an opportunity to create a more responsible and sustainable business.
How to design green spaces around warehouses to support the local ecosystem?
Creating green spaces and nature-friendly areas positively impacts the functioning of all stakeholders. Relaxation zones, spaces for physical activities, and carefully selected plant species not only provide a place to rest but also improve the mental and physical health of users. Furthermore, well-designed spaces can also support ecosystem restoration through the planting of native species that once naturally existed in the area before its transformation.
At LemonTree, we are redefining the approach to designing green spaces around complexes, aligning them with our strategic goals. Creating technologically advanced warehouses requires a cohesive and modern approach to shaping the surrounding greenery. During the design process, we rely on detailed environmental, hydrological, and urban analyses. Our goal is to create a space that supports user well-being, optimizes stormwater retention (minimizing the water footprint), and ensures the appropriate planting structure – in line with local habitat conditions and the functional requirements of the complex.
In addition to the requirements outlined in planning documents, such as the local spatial development plan, which impose on investors the obligation to implement actions for green spaces, we always conduct a thorough analysis of environmental conditions. We also collaborate with experts in dendrology, nature, and landscape architecture. These specialists help us select plant species naturally occurring in the given region, which supports the restoration and enrichment of biodiversity on the transformed land to the greatest extent possible.
With future generations in mind
Biodiversity is not only an ecological issue but also a matter of social responsibility. Investing in the protection and restoration of natural ecosystems should be an integral part of the strategy for real estate developers. On one hand, well-designed projects will positively impact the local environment, while on the other, they will create spaces where people will want to spend time and relax. It is a path toward the future, where development and nature go hand in hand.