Excess nutrients entering the catchments of the Solent and River Itchen have led to algal mats, disrupting local habitats and biodiversity. These ecosystems are vital for a range of wildlife, including migratory bird species and marine vegetation.
In response to these regulations, Natural England requires new developments in the Solent to be nutrient neutral, ensuring that no additional nitrogen or phosphorus enters protected habitats from housing developments. Guided by the Dutch Nitrogen Case, this approach ensures long-term protection for the regions vulnerable natural habitats.
These geese migrate all the way from Arctic Siberia, with around 10% of the global population spending the winter in the Solent. They depend on the area’s coastal habitats for feeding, particularly on eelgrass.
However, nutrient pollution and recreational disturbance pose a serious threat to the survival of the Brent Geese that rely on these habitats. To learn more about the birds, please visit Meet the birds – Bird Aware Solent.
