Reduce time spent in the field
Save costs locally using contractors
Sample more regularly
Environmental Impact Assessments, with NatureMetrics
We deliver biodiversity data for environmental impact assessments (EIAs) using cutting-edge environmental DNA (eDNA) technology. Combining deep scientific expertise with our global experience of field-sampling, we offer bespoke solutions to suit your project needs. Our approach provides more data for less effort in the field, and you can trust in us to deliver quality results.
Conventional biodiversity survey methods for EIAs are costly and require large numbers of taxonomic experts in the field. At NatureMetrics, we provide you with the tools to collect DNA samples from your project sites and send them to us for DNA analysis. This approach generates data on unprecedented scales, feeding into all stages of the mitigation hierarchy.
The biodiversity monitoring landscape is being transformed thanks to these commercial-scale DNA technologies.
“Thanks to the eDNA service provided by NatureMetrics, ERM has been able to prove the efficacy and health and safety benefits of using eDNA as a survey technique and to highlight its value as a method of rapidly scoping sites without the need for a specialist taxonomist to be present”
DNA-based biodiversity assessment can inform ecological decision-making at every stage of the project cycle to improve outcomes for biodiversity and help achieve No Net Loss or Net Positive Impact.
SCREENING AND SCOPING
Identify biodiversity risks (e.g. presence of Critical Species) through rapid surveys at landscape scale, with samples collected by non-specialist contractors.
REGULAR MONITORING
Replicable monitoring that can be easily deployed throughout the project cycle to quantify impacts. On-site staff and contractors can be trained to collect samples, enabling year-round monitoring.
RESTORATION
Track the progress of restoration and employ adaptive management to optimize outcomes using the high-resolution data from DNA-based assessments.
BASELINE DATA COLLECTION
Integrated biodiversity surveys on large scales and across a diverse range of taxonomic groups and habitat types. Characterise the pre-impact status of biodiversity and plan your project to avoid or minimise biodiversity impacts and choose effective offset sites.
ENGAGEMENT
Empower local stakeholders to monitor biodiversity in and around the project site. eDNA sampling is easy to do and can be integrated into local education and community engagement programmes.
OFFSETTING
Monitor the biodiversity status of offset sites to ensure ecological equivalence. The ease of eDNA sampling means that this can be carried out by local stakeholders after site closure.
Our Experience
Extractives
We work with clients in many environments across Europe, Latin America and Africa. We have demonstrated that eDNA provides more data for less field effort, with in-country staff and contractors trained to collect high-quality samples. We are working with Anglo American to meet targeted and measurable environmental goals as part of their Sustainable Mining Plan.
Infrastructure
We have worked on EIA projects for road, rail and ports projects. Our suite of tools enable efficient monitoring of species and habitats at a landscape scale. This includes monitoring the creation and restoration of habitats in the context of Biodiversity Net Gain, invasive species surveillance, and efficient ongoing monitoring of multiple taxonomic groups, including fish, amphibians, mammals and insects.
Marine
We’ve delivered data for marine EIAs in geographies ranging from the North Sea to West Africa and the North Pacific. Our marine sediment analyses provide comprehensive baselines for replicable monitoring across benthic microbial and infaunal groups, while our aquatic eDNA are used to monitor fish, marine mammals and other vertebrate groups.
We offer a wide range of biodiversity solutions
eDNA from water
Great Crested Newt eDNA
DNA from soils and sediments
