Net Environmental Benefit in Urban Centres

Abstract

A theoretical model is proposed to assess whether activities associated with urban development create net positive environmental benefits. The rationale is that the application of no net loss and preferably a net gain goals for biodiversity values associated with offsetting development impacts requires a shift away from the usual regulatory pursuit of minimising harm toward requiring benefit. A catchment-based decision-making framework is used to demonstrate the process. Limitations include outcome uncertainty and deciding on baselines related to cumulative effects, and dealing with transaction costs.