Definition

Measurable conservation outcomes resulting from actions designed to compensate for significant residual adverse biodiversity impacts arising from project development after appropriate prevention and mitigation measures have been taken. The goal of biodiversity offsets is to achieve no net loss and preferably a net gain of biodiversity on the ground with respect to species composition, habitat structure and ecosystem function and people’s use and cultural values associated with biodiversity.

Business Biodiversity and Offsets Programme (BBOP) 2012 ¹

Note: There are other definitions of 'biodiversity offsets' which are used by national governments and companies.