Integrating biodiversity into land-use regulations: Evidence from Swiss municipal plan revisions

Land-use planning is widely recognized as a key tool for biodiversity conservation amid growing urbanization pressures. Yet, the extent to which biodiversity is considered in local land-use regulations remains insufficiently understood. In this study, we investigated land-use plan revisions in six Swiss municipalities, analyzing whether and how biodiversity-friendly standards are integrated into building and zoning ordinances. We compared the old and new ordinances and examined key stages of the revision process through qualitative content analysis of documents and interviews. We identified when and how biodiversity-friendly provisions are introduced, altered, or removed, as well as the barriers and enablers that shape their integration. Our findings show that biodiversity-friendly provisions are increasingly being adopted in building and zoning ordinances, despite political opposition and feasibility concerns. Common measures include preserving existing urban greenery, greening rooftops, and applying green area ratios to building surroundings. The drafting stage emerged as a crucial entry point for biodiversity-friendly provisions. Participatory procedures, using synergies, and advocacy were critical enablers for integrating biodiversity into land-use regulations. • Identifies 16 actionable biodiversity standards for municipal land-use plans. • Provides in-depth analysis of biodiversity measures throughout policy revision. • Finds that the draft stage is a key entry point for biodiversity-friendly standards. • Reveals opposition to regulation and feasibility concerns as major barriers. • Leveraging expertise, participation and synergies fosters biodiversity integration.