Simple analysis of biodiversity response functions and multipliers for biodiversity offsetting and other applications

Abstract

Biodiversity offsets mean compensation for ecological losses caused by construction, development, land use or other human activities. They are commonly implemented via protection, restoration, or maintenance of habitats. The goal of offsetting is usually no net loss (NNL), which means that all net losses to biodiversity are fully compensated by commensurate net gains achieved via said offset actions. Here we collate and develop simple calculations for the determination of offset size (area) in the context of so-called multiplier approaches to offsets. We focus on the analysis of the response of habitat condition to action, which is a critical component of multiplier calculations, because the effectiveness and speed of different conservation actions and interventions can vary significantly. An excel application and R-code are included that implement calculations on offset response functions. The proposed methods are also relevant for other applications, including the generation of biodiversity credits for biodiversity credit markets.