Technical Discussion on the Scottish Planning Biodiversity Metric with NatureScot

About This Event

This online webinar on 27 October 2026 is run by NatureScot and hosted by CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management). It takes place on Zoom from 1pm to 2.30pm and is free to attend for both members and non-members. The session provides a technical review of the consultation version of the Scottish Planning Biodiversity Metric (SPBM), a new tool based on the English Statutory Biodiversity Metric but adapted for the Scottish environmental and planning policy context.

The programme covers the technical components of the metric, including risk multipliers, and explores the key differences between the SPBM and the English Statutory Biodiversity Metric. The session includes discussion on how the tool is expected to be used within the Scottish planning system. The speaker is Sarah Macdonald-Smart from NatureScot, who has eight years' experience as a consultant ecologist with a focus on habitat surveys, habitat condition assessment and biodiversity net gain, and extensive knowledge of biodiversity metrics in Scotland and Ireland. Participants can submit questions in advance by 22 October.

For UK SMEs working in Scotland or advising on Scottish planning applications, this session offers practical insight into a metric that may become part of the planning process. Understanding the technical detail and differences from the English metric will help businesses prepare for potential future requirements and engage with the ongoing consultation.

Key Takeaways

• The metric is based on the English Statutory Biodiversity Metric but adapted for Scottish environmental and planning policy
• Technical components covered include risk multipliers and key differences from the English metric
• The session explains how the tool is expected to be used in the Scottish planning system
• Participants will be better prepared to engage with the consultation on the metric
• The event helps businesses prepare for potential future use of the tool in planning applications

Who Should Attend

• Ecologists and environmental consultants working on Scottish planning applications or habitat assessments
• Sustainability leads in businesses operating in Scotland who need to understand biodiversity requirements
• Planning professionals advising on Scottish developments where biodiversity metrics may apply
• Anyone who attended the introductory metric session or has experience using biodiversity metrics