A pioneering research project is trialling the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) to support sustainable infrastructure development and improve biodiversity monitoring.
Sustainable infrastructure development involves designing, building, and maintaining physical assets like roads, water systems, and energy grid, to be environmentally friendly, socially beneficial, and economically viable over their entire life cycle.
The collaboration between the University of Strathclyde and international engineering consultancy COWI will explore how eDNA – which detects genetic material shed naturally by organisms – could offer a faster, more cost-effective means of measuring Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). From May 2026 this will be a legal requirement for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects in England.
The research, funded through COWIfonden’s Fast & Furious innovation programme, is being trialled on UK railway sites and has the potential to be applied across a wide range of global infrastructure sectors, including transport, energy and urban development.
Soil samples
By analysing DNA found in soil samples from plants, animals and microbes, the technique aims to provide a richer and more accurate picture of biodiversity than traditional ecological surveys.
Dr Ronnie Mooney, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Strathclyde, said: “This partnership brings together biological expertise and engineering practice in a way that could significantly benefit the environment.
eDNA allows us to detect everything from mammals to microbes, giving a deeper resolution of habitats and long-term soil health. Collaborating with COWI means we can apply this research in real-world projects with tangible impact.
Traditional biodiversity surveys can be limited by seasonal factors and can miss elusive or protected species. The use of eDNA can overcome these constraints, enabling developers to meet BNG obligations more efficiently, while helping to reduce project risks, delays and costs.
Protect nature
Andy Sloan, Executive Vice President, COWI UK & International, said: “At COWI, we’ve set a clear direction to focus exclusively on projects that drive sustainability, with biodiversity as a key pillar.
“This partnership with the University of Strathclyde is a practical step in realising that ambition, applying innovative tools like eDNA to improve how we assess and protect nature in infrastructure delivery.
“We see this not just as a technical trial, but as a signal of what’s next – smarter, faster and more nature-positive infrastructure that aligns with our clients’ net-zero and BNG goals. It’s about embedding ecological intelligence into engineering practice and helping to set a new standard for sustainable development across the UK and beyond.”
Initial results from the project are expected in December 2025.