The Biodiversity & Built Environment Community of Practice returns in 2026, this time in a new venue hosted by Arup. As biodiversity rises on the sustainability agenda, this CoP aims to bring together professionals working in planning, architecture, engineering, and sustainability to explore how the built environment can regenerate natural ecosystems rather than deplete them.
Topic of this session: Biodiversity in Existing Buildings & Neighbourhoods
There is a strong focus on Biodiversity Net Gain and improving biodiversity in new developments, but what about the buildings and sites that already exist? How can renovation projects avoid harming wildlife and local ecosystems? How can we help nature thrive in urban regeneration? And what practical steps can we take to enhance biodiversity on sterile commercial sites?
In this session, we’ll hear from leading experts who will share practical insights and real‑world examples to inspire your future work.
Please note:
Our Community of Practice has a new home at Arup, 50 Ringsend Road – Dublin 4, D04 T6X0, Ireland. Make sure to head to the correct venue!
Agenda
9:15 | Registration & Networking
9:30 | Welcome – Susan Vickers – Chair of the Community of Practice
Oonnagh Read – Engineering Consultant at Arup
9:35 | Presentations
- Protecting nature in our buildings – Donna Mullen, Ecologist & Founding member of Bat Conservation Ireland and the Irish Environmental Network
What happens when bats are found in buildings? Why are they there, and how can we protect them? In this session, Donna will explore the challenges faced by bats and other wildlife, including the impacts of light pollution, the importance of protecting crevices, and how to enable bat access through slats and stonework. She will also discuss the benefits—and problems—associated with breathable membranes, as well as key considerations around timber treatment. The presentation will conclude with a series of success stories showcasing effective mitigation in practice.
- Protecting Swifts During a Home Energy Upgrade – Ciaran Byrne, Director of National Retrofit at SEAI & Finola Fingleton
- Biodiversity in Existing Commercial Sites – Krystyna Rawicz, Director at KRA Visionary
10: 15 | Panel
Maeve Riley, Senior Ecologist at Arup
Tom Walsh, Sustainability Manager at ESB Networks
+ Speakers
10:45 | Q&A
11: 15 | Ends
Who should attend?
Everyone is welcome, but this is an IGBC Members-only event. To login please use your credentials. If you are not enrolled yet, contact [email protected]
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Registrations Now Open
Secure your spot and join fellow IGBC members as we shape the future of biodiversity within the built environment.
Event
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