Glossary of Key Terms

This glossary provides definitions for key terms used throughout the Biodiversity & Infrastructure Handbook, supporting consistent understanding across disciplines such as ecology, engineering, transport planning and policy.

Definitions are based on legal texts, reference documents and expert agreement, and cover essential concepts related to wildlife and traffic, habitat fragmentation, ecological connectivity, mitigation measures, monitoring, green infrastructure and nature-based solutions. The glossary helps practitioners interpret technical guidance and supports clear communication between stakeholders involved in infrastructure projects.

If you are new to transport ecology or working in a multi-disciplinary team, the glossary can serve as a quick reference before exploring detailed handbook chapters. Terms will continue to evolve as the handbook is updated through expert collaboration and user feedback.

Last update: October 2023 – How to cite

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There are currently 2 names in this directory beginning with the letter V.
Verge
The strip of land (often vegetated) beyond the infrastructure surface itself, but within the infrastructure corridor.
Viaduct
Long elevated bridge, typically supported on pillars, which carries a transport infrastructure over a valley or other similar low-level landscape area. The landscape below these structures can be designed to conserve or maintain continuous riparian and aquatic habitats, thereby facilitating wildlife movement. See also ‘Adapted viaduct’.