Environmental DNA biodiversity monitoring is gaining momentum in the UK as testing and certification company SGS launches a new eDNA service designed to support ecological assessments and biodiversity monitoring.
The service uses environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to detect genetic material released into the environment by organisms. This material can originate from skin cells, hair, scales, mucus or other biological traces left behind by animals, plants and microorganisms.
By analysing trace DNA present in soil, water or air samples, laboratories can identify species present within an ecosystem without relying on traditional field surveys.
Environmental DNA biodiversity monitoring is increasingly used by ecologists, conservation organisations and infrastructure developers seeking to understand the ecological impact of projects and land use.
Environmental DNA biodiversity monitoring and ecosystem assessment
The environmental DNA biodiversity monitoring approach allows scientists to detect species that may otherwise be difficult to observe directly.
Traditional ecological surveys often require extensive fieldwork and rely on visual species identification or trapping methods. eDNA techniques instead analyse genetic fragments left in the environment, enabling researchers to build a detailed picture of biodiversity from a single sample.
According to SGS, laboratory analysis can detect genetic signatures from thousands of species simultaneously, providing insights into ecosystems ranging from freshwater habitats to agricultural land.
Steve Allen, Business Development Manager at SGS UK Limited, said increasing environmental regulations and public concern for ecosystem protection are driving demand for more comprehensive biodiversity assessment tools.
“Growing public concern for ecosystem protection, alongside increasing regulatory and planning requirements, means organisations must clearly demonstrate their impact on biodiversity wherever they operate.”
Environmental DNA monitoring can support environmental impact assessments, conservation planning and biodiversity reporting required under emerging environmental policies.
Applications across conservation and agriculture
The new service includes a range of testing options designed for different ecological monitoring needs.
These include targeted single-species detection, multi-species biodiversity surveys, insect monitoring and assessments designed to identify invasive species.
Environmental DNA analysis is also increasingly used in agricultural settings, where monitoring pollinator populations can help guide planting strategies and improve crop yields.
More broadly, the technology is becoming an important tool for biodiversity monitoring programmes as governments and industries seek to measure ecosystem health and mitigate environmental impacts.
Further reporting on biodiversity and ecosystem research can be found in the Earth & Nature section of Climate Global News.
