We’re proud to share some of the ways we’re actively supporting and enhancing biodiversity – not just at our Ilkeston Head Office, but across our project sites – as part of our wider environmental responsibility goals.
OUR COMMITMENT TO BIODIVERSITY NET GAIN (BNG)
At Rayden Engineering Ltd (REL), we take a proactive approach to improving the natural environment, wherever we operate.
We understand that biodiversity, short for biological diversity, refers to the variety of all living things and their ecosystems — and it’s essential for a sustainable future.
Through our commitment to Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), we aim to leave the environment in a better condition than we found it. This means creating new habitats, enhancing existing ecological features, and, where necessary, contributing to offsite improvements.
A CLOSER LOOK: BIODIVERSITY IN ACTION
A recent initiative at our Ilkeston Head Office is the installation of Biodiversity Boards — a bespoke concept developed by REL.
So far, this includes a range of bird nesting boxes, (both open-fronted and with entry holes) and bug hotels located across our site. These provide a safe, sheltered space for differing types of local species — supporting nesting birds, pollinators, and other beneficial insects.
Together, these installations form part of our broader plan to enhance on-site biodiversity and establish connected wildlife corridors throughout the area.
In the future, additional boards will include bird feeding stations, hedgehog boxes, and wildlife ponds, further supporting local ecosystems and reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship.
A WORD FROM OUR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGER
Craig Dasilva, Environmental Manager at REL, explains the thinking behind the initiative:
“The idea for Biodiversity Boards came from a desire to create a visible, practical way of supporting local wildlife while raising awareness across our site.”
“By combining bird boxes, bug hotels, and eventually features like feeding stations and wildlife ponds, we’re building a connected, thriving environment that links with surrounding habitats — and helps biodiversity flourish.”
OTHER EXAMPLES OF OUR ONGOING EFFORTS
- Enhancing wildlife corridors that connect the Erewash Canal, River Erewash, nearby pond, and railway line through Community and local business engagement.
- Improving woodland areas on-site to support native flora and fauna.
- Harvesting rainwater for use in facility management.
- Planting and maintaining trees across the site.
- Creating additional hospitable spaces for nesting birds.
- Installing insect-attracting hanging baskets at both office and project locations.
- Embedding environmentally conscious practices throughout all levels of our business.
WHY IT MATTERS
Our approach to biodiversity doesn’t just benefit the environment – it adds long-term value to our operations and aligns with the sustainability goals of our clients and partners. More importantly, it reflects our belief that modern engineering should be done responsibly, with a long-term view.
These efforts also contribute directly to our ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management Systems certification, supporting a framework of continual improvement and measurable environmental responsibility.
LOOKING AHEAD
We’ll continue to explore new ways to support biodiversity and embed green thinking throughout every level of our operations. Whether through habitat protection, sustainable water use, or team engagement, REL is proud to contribute to a more balanced, nature-positive future.
GET IN TOUCH
If you have any questions about our environmental or biodiversity initiatives – or would like to learn more about the services we offer – please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
