At SES, botany is at the heart of what we do. erstandiUndng plant communities and habitats is essential for accurate ecological assessment, and our in-house botanical expertise ensures that every project we deliver is grounded in robust, evidence-led science. From development planning to policy support and protected site management, our team provides clarity and confidence at every stage.
Our botanists work across the UK, delivering comprehensive surveys that inform sound decision-making. Whether it’s early feasibility studies or detailed assessments for mitigation and monitoring, SES combines technical precision with practical insight to achieve the best outcomes for clients and the environment.
Specialist Botanical Surveys for Every Project
Our services cover the full spectrum of botanical survey requirements, including:
- UK Habitat Classification (UKHab) for consistent, standardised habitat mapping.
- Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Condition Assessments, providing defensible baseline data and condition scoring for development projects.
- National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys for complex semi-natural habitats and designated sites requiring detailed botanical resolution.
All surveys are carried out by experienced professionals qualified to FISC Levels 4 and 5, ensuring compliance with current best practice and industry standards.
Supporting Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA)
Botanical data often plays a critical role in assessing potential impacts on designated sites. SES regularly undertakes Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA) for developments that may affect SACs, SPAs or Ramsar sites, particularly where qualifying or supporting botanical features are involved. By combining high-quality field data with expert interpretation, we help identify risks, assess impacts and design effective mitigation strategies.
Delivering National-Scale Surveys: England Ecosystem Survey
Our expertise extends beyond development projects to nationally significant programmes. SES is proud to contribute to Natural England’s England Ecosystem Survey (EES), a cornerstone of the UK’s Natural Capital and Ecosystem Assessment Programme (NCEA). This initiative provides vital evidence on habitat condition, landscape character, soil properties and biodiversity, supporting the UK Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan.
Working across diverse habitats and landscapes, SES delivers botanical surveys within 1km² monads selected for representative coverage. This work reflects our technical competence and ability to meet rigorous national standards. Data collected through the EES will inform policy and planning for years to come, and we are committed to playing a key role in its success.
Investing in People and Professional Growth
At SES, our commitment to botany goes beyond project delivery, we invest in our people. Through structured training programmes, in-field mentoring, internal workshops and external courses, we support our ecologists in achieving professional milestones such as FISC Level 4 and 5 certification. This approach strengthens our team and contributes to the long-term resilience of the ecological profession.
Our investment in skills and development is part of our wider Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) ethos, ensuring high standards of work, fostering career progression and creating a positive impact across the sector.
Why Choose SES for Botanical Expertise?
All botanical work at SES is delivered by our in-house team, enabling seamless collaboration between surveyors, project managers and assessment specialists. This integrated approach guarantees:
- Consistent quality and survey standards.
- Clear communication throughout project lifecycles.
- Practical, proportionate advice grounded in real-world experience.
From local development projects to national-scale ecological programmes, SES provides trusted botanical expertise that informs decisions and drives sustainable outcomes.