26th August 2026
We’re catching up with Ben Christie, our Head of Ecology & Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), to learn more about his career journey, what inspires his work and the opportunities as well as challenges shaping the future of nature recovery. Since joining the Land Trust in 2024, Ben has played a key role in driving conservation projects across our portfolio, helping to secure lasting benefits for both biodiversity and local communities. From landmark BNG projects to his passion for protecting habitats for future generations, Ben shares his insight into a role that’s making a real difference.
Ben, can you tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve worked in the industry for?
I’ve worked in ecology and conservation management for around 15 years, building up experience across a broad mix of roles including practical land and habitat management, ecological surveying and reporting, and public engagement. I joined The Land Trust in August 2024 to lead on conservation projects across our sites, particularly those delivered through Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and other environmental funding streams.
A key part of my role is overseeing our responsibilities as a Responsible Body for conservation covenants, something I’m incredibly passionate about given the long-term protection it can offer to important habitats. I also line-manage a fantastic team, collaborating closely with our internal estates managers as well as external consultants, NGOs and land managers to ensure our work delivers the highest quality outcomes for nature and for communities.
What’s been your favourite elements of your role since you joined the Land Trust in 2024?
One of the most rewarding parts has been uncovering new wildlife records across our diverse network of sites. Every new species sighting or ecological insight tells a story about how our landscapes are responding to the work we do.
I’ve also loved hearing about the Green Angels team and the positive impact they’re making within local communities. Seeing people engage with nature, sometimes for the first time, reminds me why this work matters. Those stories really bring our mission to life.
What challenges do you see impacting your the industry in the future?
BNG is still an emerging nature market in England, and its potential to deliver meaningful gains for biodiversity and create new opportunities for people to connect with nature is enormous. But the policy landscape is changing rapidly.
The Government’s recent decision to remove sites under 0.2 hectares from mandatory BNG, while preferable to the previously proposed 0.5ha threshold, still presents a real ecological risk. Many small sites play a crucial role in habitat connectivity and urban biodiversity.
There are also ongoing consultations around exempting brownfield sites up to 2.5 hectares. Although designed to support SME developers, this could inadvertently remove BNG requirements from precisely the kinds of sites where habitat creation and restoration could deliver the most benefit.
The industry’s challenge will be finding ways to bridge these gaps and maintain the integrity of BNG through robust delivery, strong partnerships and a focus on long-term stewardship.
What’s one project or moment here that you’re especially proud of, and why?
Securing The Land Trust’s first mandatory BNG sale at Frickley Country Park was a significant milestone. It represented not just a successful transaction, but a moment where years of policy development and preparatory work translated into real, tangible biodiversity outcomes. It was a proud moment for the organisation and for me personally.
What does a great work day look like to you?
Nothing beats being out on one of our incredible sites, seeing first-hand how our management is making a difference. Observing thriving habitats, witnessing community use, and knowing the hard work behind the scenes has led to visible, positive change, that’s a great day.
Who or what has had the biggest influence on how you work today?
My education in environmental and ecological sciences at the University of East Anglia gave me a strong scientific foundation, but my passion comes from growing up in the countryside surrounded by wild spaces. Those experiences shaped my values and ultimately led me into this field.
What drives me now is the knowledge that the work we do protects and enhances nature not only for today, but for my children and future generations.
What motivates you when things get challenging?
The simple fact that the end goal is always worth it. When your work is rooted in improving nature and ensuring people can access and enjoy it, it puts challenges and complexities into perspective. The purpose behind the work is incredibly energising.
What advice would you give for anyone who is joining your field of work?
Ecology is very much a vocational career. Practical experience is invaluable, so spend as much time outdoors as you can, volunteering, surveying, engaging with local conservation groups. The hands-on understanding you gain will be just as important as your academic knowledge.
What’s something you’re excited about working on right now?
Expanding the reach of BNG across more of our sites is incredibly exciting. Every new project is an opportunity to improve biodiversity, deliver high-quality nature spaces, and demonstrate the value of long-term, collaborative land management.
What does success look like in your role this year?
Success this year would be working closely with brilliant partner organisations to bring forward a number of conservation covenants, ensuring long-term protection and enhancement of nature on our sites.
It also means getting fully stuck into delivering and monitoring our existing BNG projects, making sure each one achieves the maximum possible benefit for biodiversity and local communities.
How do you enjoy spending your time outside of work?
I’m the Chair of my local Scouts group, and supporting young people through regular meetings and events is something I find incredibly rewarding. Outside of that, I love spending time outdoors and being with my family, those moments keep me grounded and connected to what matters.