NatureKristian Erlandsen2024-11-19T09:06:19+01:00 Nature Protecting nature and preserving biodiversity is a major concern. Both in Denmark and at the European level, there are regulations on how we should care for protected flora and fauna, which is crucial to keep in mind in construction and civil engineering projects. When initiating a new construction project, it is essential to address natural considerations early in the process, as a lack of awareness about protected species or habitats, along with the necessary assessments and regulatory approvals, can hinder progress. Considering nature is not only important but also an opportunity to add value to the project. Measures that protect biodiversity or directly contribute to it, for example, positively impact ESG reporting. Registration in § 3 AreasSection 3 of the Danish Nature Protection Act covers natural areas where changes in condition are prohibited. This means that nearby construction projects and other activities must not affect the specially protected nature. The municipalities are the authorities for the protected nature, and many projects will require a registration of the area’s natural values before permission to build is granted, ensuring a clear understanding of whether there is any impact. Artelia assists many clients with the necessary registration, which is carried out according to applicable national standards and methods Mapping of Annex IV SpeciesAnnex IV of the EU’s Habitats Directive lists strictly protected species. In a Danish context, this includes various types of amphibians, bats, sand lizards, and otters. This is often a relevant issue in construction projects, as it is not permitted to disturb these species or destroy their habitats or breeding sites. If these species are identified near a new project, it may also be necessary to consider their migration routes, which can be facilitated by wildlife crossings. The protection of Annex IV species is taken very seriously, and it is often a critical point for the approval of an environmental assessment of a plan or project. In many different types of projects, Artelia has mapped the occurrence of Annex IV species and provided advice on potential measures. Materiality Assessments in Natura 2000 AreasNatura 2000 is a European-wide designation for a number of conservation-worthy natural areas protected by EU directives. These areas are designated based on specific species and habitats found within the area. When construction activities are in close proximity to these areas, it is legally required to conduct a materiality assessment of the potential impact the project may have on the nature, particularly on the species or habitats that form the basis for the area’s designation. This always involves a case-by-case assessment. If it cannot be ruled out that there will be an impact, the next step is an impact assessment. Artelia has conducted several Natura 2000 materiality assessments in connection with both small and large construction projects. We Protect Urban NatureAs environmental consultants, Artelia has helped remove pollution from a former playground, thus restoring ByOasen. This green oasis in the heart of Nørrebro can once again bring the local community together for shared activities in nature. An important part of the project, carried out in collaboration with Arkland and the City of Copenhagen, was preserving the area’s characteristic trees and recycling materials. Artelia’s services have included handling pollution issues, nature conservation, and protection against risks to people and the environment. Climate Lowland Projects Across DenmarkThe purpose of climate lowland projects is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from carbon-rich lowland soils that were previously used for agriculture. This is achieved by restoring natural hydrology. When natural hydrology is restored, the water level in the lowland area rises, resulting in less oxygen in the soil and thus slower or complete cessation of carbon decomposition. The Danish Environmental Protection Agency provides financial support for these projects, enabling municipalities, private landowners, and foundations to apply for grants for the withdrawal of carbon-rich lowland soils. Artelia assists with preliminary studies that assess whether a project is feasible or not. Vallensbæk Beach MeadowAs a consultant on the climate adaptation project, Artelia contributed expertise in nature conservation. We were responsible for the initial surveys of vegetation and wildlife within the project area, conducted EIA screening, and managed regulatory applications for work within the §3 protected area and the coastal protection line. The area’s nature has been enhanced by planting locally native species and excavating a 700 m² pond within the §3 area. Client Vallensbæk Municipality og HOFOR Architect Arkland Services: In addition to nature consultancy, Artelia designed the hydraulic solutions and other parts of the project, carried out full pre-classification of approximately 10,000 tons of soil, developed excavation plans and soil management, and managed the construction. Climate Protection of Kolding ÅThe new pump-lock system, designed to protect Kolding city center from climate impacts at the mouth of Kolding Å to the fjord, is being constructed in a protected natural area. In this context, Artelia has prepared the environmental impact report. Considerations for flora and fauna not only influence where and how construction can occur but also when. The diversion of the river must take place at a time that does not disturb the fish spawning periods or the breeding season of the fjord’s porpoises. If one is very lucky, an otter or a dolphin might be encountered in the vicinity, and they are also considered in the report. Several design requirements for the facility are similarly aimed at accommodating the movement of fish and the other traffic in the river, which includes kayaks, dinghies, and other vessels. Client Kolding Municipality Services: In addition to the environmental impact report, Artelia has served as the client’s consultant for the new pump-lock system and associated measures. We have also conducted geotechnical investigations, during which environmental samples were taken for the soil management plan that we also assisted with.
