Mobilane and SGS Search have collaboratively launched a new biodiversity measuring tool, which uses innovative new DNA testing technology to measure the effectiveness of living walls and roofs for boosting biodiversity.
The DNA Insect Scan is offered as a service to provide insight into biodiversity data, and enable developers and organisations to track and record different insect species interacting with their green infrastructure over time. Partners can use the data to determine the success of biodiversity restoration projects, identify and manage pollinators, understand the ecosystem services supported by design interventions such as living walls and roofs, and substantiate ESG reporting, environmental assessments like BREEAM, and compliance with England’s upcoming ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ policy.
The innovative new method utilises technology that measures insect environmental DNA (e-DNA), formed of the genetic material released into the environment from skin, hair, mucus, and bacteria cells. Where traditional biodiversity assessments rely on trapping or visually identifying species in the field or lab, e-DNA sampling is non-invasive, highly accurate, cost-effective, and time-efficient.
The service works by taking samples of leaves, branches, and flowers from the green wall during regular maintenance. These samples are then processed by Biosciences Centre researchers, who extract, amplify and sequence the e-DNA samples in the laboratory. Analysis and taxonomy of the e-DNA sample data then allows researchers to identify the recent presence and distribution of different species.
The new technology is being launched at a crucial stage in the global biodiversity emergency, with insect populations declining at an alarming rate. Studies show that a loss of 40% of insect species globally could be possible without the necessary action, with some European countries tracking a 70 to 80% loss of insect biomass over the last 3 decades. In the UK context, the DNA Insect Scan is being launched ahead of the rollout of the ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ policy in November, which requires developers in England to deliver a 10% gain in biodiversity in any new housing, industrial or commercial development. The DNA Insect Scan will be a valuable tool for adding demonstrable, data-driven evidence to this cause.
The first projects to benefit from the new technology are located in Mobilane’s headquarter country of the Netherlands. At a commercial property in Bunnik, twelve samples were taken from two different living walls on the building, as well as eight from nearby natural vegetation on the ground. 103 different species were detected across the sites, and importantly, the majority of this presence was on the living wall sample, clearly indicating its enhancement of local insect population. There are also encouraging signs that the walls are being used as an ecological corridor, with 15 species found on both the wall and ground samples. As the study develops, there will be the opportunity to measure how these figures grow over time, respond to different conditions, and benefit other animals in the ecosystem such as birds.
The benefits of living walls and roofs for removing air pollutants, boosting thermal efficiency, and reducing proximal temperatures are well known. With the DNA Insect Scan, the critical role that this green infrastructure plays in boosting biodiversity in urban areas can be measured and assessed accurately and practically, with data-driven research.
Alexander Ilsink, CEO of Mobilane said: “Biodiversity is essential for a green future. To thrive, insects need habitat, food, and reduction of threats like pesticides. Our cities pose a great opportunity to support this, as pesticide usage is lower in urban than in agricultural areas, and the data shows that most species don’t care if their habitat is horizontal or vertical. We can now monitor and verify this enhancement of urban areas using the DNA Insect Scan, and further optimise the impact of every green wall.”
Willem van Strien, Project Coordinator at SGS Global Biosciences Centre said: “Insects are critical for fulfilling many ecosystem services, and form the largest animal biomass on land. We need healthy and varied insect populations to clean our waste, pollinate our crops, control pests, and feed other animals. The DNA Insect Scan enables the meaningful and comprehensive reporting of data, and we’re excited to partner with Mobilane in the delivery of this new technology.”
