THE use of environmental DNA (eDNA) is to be trialled by COWI and the University of Strathclyde as a potentially more efficient way to measure biodiversity net gain (BNG).
The technique detects genetic material naturally shed by organisms. Under the UK’s upcoming BNG requirement for nationally significant infrastructure, there is a push for major developments to leave natural environments in a measurably better state than before construction.
The collaboration between the learning institute and the international engineering consultancy aims to provide developers with an innovative, complimentary tool to meet that standard while reducing time and cost.
The pilot, funded through COWIfonden’s fast & furious innovation programme, focuses on UK railway sites but has potential applications across global infrastructure, from transport to energy and urban development. By analysing soil samples for DNA from plants, animals and microbes, the project aims to deliver a richer and more accurate picture of site biodiversity than traditional ecological surveys.
The collaboration tackles key challenges in infrastructure development. Traditional ecological surveys can be labour-intensive and restricted by seasonal windows. With BNG requirements set to become mandatory for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects from May 2026 in England, eDNA offers a way to overcome these constraints, COWI said. Adding that it can detect protected species that standard walkover surveys may miss and provide a more in-depth picture of the health of an ecosystem. This can help developers meet obligations more efficiently while reducing project risks, delays, and costs.
Andy Sloan, executive VP at COWI UK & International, commented, “At COWI, we’ve set a clear direction to focus exclusively on projects that drive sustainability, with biodiversity as a key pillar. This partnership with the University of Strathclyde is a practical step in realising that ambition, applying innovative tools like eDNA to improve how we assess and protect nature in infrastructure delivery.
“We see this not just as a technical trial, but as a signal of what’s next – smarter, faster and more nature-positive infrastructure that aligns with our clients’ net-zero and biodiversity net gain goals. It’s about embedding ecological intelligence into engineering practice, and helping set a new standard for sustainable development across the UK and beyond.”
Dr Ronnie Mooney, postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Strathclyde, added, “This partnership brings together biological expertise and engineering practice in a way that could significantly benefit the environment. eDNA allows us to detect everything from mammals to microbes, giving a deeper resolution of habitats and long-term soil health. Collaborating with COWI means we can apply this research in real-world projects with tangible impact.”
The project is currently being piloted across multiple sites, with initial findings due to be published in December 2025.
