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In order to protect the environment as effectively as possible, it is crucial to have precise knowledge of the natural elements present in the area of interest. For this purpose, a natural inventory is commissioned. Learn how it is conducted, who can perform it, and when it is necessary.
What is a natural inventory?
A natural inventory is a listing of all natural elements present in a specific area. Conducting such inventories became mandatory in 2016 when regulations regarding the protection of plant species and the law on providing information about the environment and its protection, public participation in environmental protection, and environmental impact assessments came into effect.
The results of natural inventories are utilized in spatial and investment planning, as well as in actions related to the protection of endangered species and their habitats. It is also crucial from the perspective of ecological education and increasing public awareness. The inventory encompasses not only fauna and flora but all natural elements present in a given area, as this enables the identification of the impact of investments on the overall local environment.
How is a natural inventory conducted?
During the initial stage of work, the exact area of operation is determined, and topographic maps of the terrain are collected, preferably in the largest scale possible. Based on these maps, base documents are prepared, onto which information about individual components of the inventory is then added.
Botanical inventory involves a thorough understanding and description of the flora of a given area. It consists of a floristic inventory of all plant species present and a phytosociological analysis, which includes a list and distribution of various plant habitats. The faunal inventory, being a part of the overall natural inventory, is more complex because there are more animal species than plant species, and they are also more challenging to observe.
When is a natural inventory required?
A natural inventory is essential whenever an investment involves activities in green areas. Before any work begins, documentation and relevant permits for spatial development must be gathered.
This type of documentation is necessary for various investments, not just for the construction of homes or roads. A natural inventory is also required for investments such as:
- Renovation of buildings,
- Thermal insulation of buildings,
- Expressways,
- Power lines,
- Green space modernization,
- Municipal inventory,
- Wind farms,
- Photovoltaic farms.
Who can conduct an inventory of natural elements in the environment?
The preparation of such an inventory should be entrusted to experienced and qualified experts. Education in natural sciences is essential, including fields such as ornithology, dendrology, ichthyology, entomology, mammalogy, herpetology, and chiropterology. In order to develop a natural inventory, fieldwork is necessary – it cannot be done remotely.
Work methodology
It is advisable for the natural inventory to cover a period of at least a year, although tender procedures often inherently prevent conducting studies within an annual cycle. In such cases, fieldwork carried out within a limited timeframe requires a well-prepared methodology and significant experience from the individuals performing it.
It is unacceptable to prepare an inventory solely based on literary data, which usually were not collected for the specific purpose of the given study. There is no need for the documentation to match the scope and level of detail found in scientific research. The inventory has a specific task to fulfill – it should demonstrate the impact of the investment on the environment.
Improper research methodology can be challenged by the reviewing body, such as the Regional Directorate for Environmental Protection. This poses a significant risk to the Investor, as it may result in contract non-compliance, prolonged procedures, and increased costs associated with obtaining an environmental decision. Therefore, it is worth prioritizing collaboration with specialists in this field.
What is natural valuation?
The goal of natural valuation is to determine the natural value of a given area. To achieve this, valuable natural elements are identified, and the properties that led to the assignment of such status are specified. Natural valuation is based on the results of a natural inventory or environmental monitoring of elements such as fauna and flora species, as well as the inventory of plant communities.
Scope of services at r2eko
At r2eko, depending on the client’s needs, we conduct various types of natural inventory. You can commission us for the inventory of natural habitats, abiotic nature, as well as fauna (including protected animals) and flora. We perform inventories wherever you need them, including research areas such as forests, meadows, wetlands, and urban areas.
Our services are available to local governments and public administration authorities, developers and investors, as well as non-governmental organizations, nature associations, and other entities in need of natural inventory. If you are interested in our offerings, schedule an individual consultation where you can present your specific environmental protection service needs.
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