Rain Gardens: Their Biodiversity Net Gain Benefits
Embracing rain gardens is a step forward in creating sustainable and vibrant urban environments. Let’s make our cities greener, one rain garden at a time!
Finding ways to enhance biodiversity and manage stormwater effectively in urban landscapes is more crucial than ever. Rain gardens are a green solution that is gaining popularity not just for their aesthetic appeal, but for their significant environmental benefits.
As we launch a new addition to our landscape edging product range specifically designed for rain gardens, we explore what makes rain gardens so important for biodiversity net gain.
What are Rain Gardens?
Rain gardens are shallow planted areas that collect rainwater from roofs, driveways, and streets. They soak up water like a sponge, reducing runoff and cleaning pollutants. These gardens use native plants that can handle both wet and dry conditions, making them easy to care for.
The Royal Horticultural Society has published an excellent article on rain gardens, including information on how to create one.
Biodiversity Net Gain: What is it?
Biodiversity net gain is an approach to development that improves the variety and variability of living organisms in an ecosystem. In terms of land development, it means that wildlife habitats are improved and expanded, rather than diminished. This approach is becoming a mandated aspect of new developments in many parts of the world, including the UK.
The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) has produced helpful guidance on how to implement biodiversity net gain in development projects.
How do Rain Gardens Contribute to Biodiversity Net Gain?
Rain gardens play a pivotal role in achieving biodiversity net gain in urban areas. Here’s how:
- Creating homes for wildlife - Rain gardens provide essential habitats for a variety of wildlife. The diverse plant life in rain gardens offers food and shelter, supporting urban biodiversity.
- Cleaning water - By filtering pollutants from stormwater runoff, rain gardens help maintain cleaner waterways. This improves the health of aquatic ecosystems, benefitting species that rely on these habitats.
- Helping pollinators - Native plants in rain gardens are often selected for their ability to attract pollinators. This supports the local pollinator populations, which are crucial for the health of many plant species and food crops.
- Regulating climates - Rain gardens help cool urban areas by increasing vegetation and reducing heat island effects. This creates a more hospitable environment for both humans and wildlife.
New: Landscape Edging for Rain Gardens
Recognising the growing importance of rain gardens, Kinley has introduced a new addition to its landscape edging product range. Specifically designed for rain gardens, RainEdge features perforations that allow for sufficient drainage to ensure that rain gardens function optimally, effectively managing stormwater while supporting plant growth and biodiversity.
