Format: The Foundation of Reliable Biodiversity Assessments

Written By Katie Dawson

In our previous article, we introduced the FRIDAS checklist—a six-part framework to enhance the quality and consistency of data submissions for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments. Today, we start with the first element: Format.

Why Does Format Matter?

In biodiversity planning, errors in data exchange and conversion are a common source of delays and inaccuracies. By ensuring that all submitted data adheres to standardised formats, we can:

  1. Minimise errors during import and analysis.

  2. Improve data accuracy and precision.

  3. Enhance collaboration between planning applicants and Local Planning Authorities (LPAs).

Submitting data in GIS-compatible formats alongside PDF plans is not just a best practice—it’s essential for implementing the rest of the FRIDAS checklist effectively.

Checklist Questions for Format

Before submitting your data, ask yourself these key questions:

1️⃣ What is the format of your data?

  • ESRI Shapefile

  • QGIS-geopackage

  • MapInfo TAB files

  • KML

2️⃣ What is the spatial reference of your data?

  • Is it defined correctly?

  • Does it align with your study area?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Mismatched Formats: Submitting incompatible file types can cause delays and errors during processing.

  • Undefined Spatial References: Without a clear coordinate system, data may not align with other datasets, leading to inaccuracies in biodiversity calculations.

How FRIDAS Helps

The Format element of the FRIDAS checklist emphasises standardisation to support seamless data exchange. Getting the format right sets the stage for the subsequent checklist elements, such as Red Line Boundaries and Identification.

Practical Tip

Always verify your data’s format and spatial reference before submission. Tools like GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS or QGIS) make it easy to check and convert data into compatible formats.

Looking Ahead

This is the first deep dive into the FRIDAS checklist. In the next article, we’ll explore Red Line Boundaries—a critical step in ensuring that development plans align with legal records and avoid duplication or omission of habitat units.

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🔗 Explore the full FRIDAS checklist here: [link to whitepaper]

Katie Dawson
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Introduction: Simplify Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments with FRIDAS
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Red Line Boundaries: Precision in Planning