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Assessing the socioeconomic impacts of nature networks
Habitat fragmentation is a major cause of biodiversity loss. It makes it harder for plants and animals to move between habitats, adapt to climate change and remain resilient to other pressures. Nature networks can help by creating corridors and stepping stones between habitats.
The Scottish Government has identified nature networks as a key action in its Scottish Biodiversity Strategy Delivery Plan. However, their wider benefits for communities are not always recognised. More evidence is needed to show the value of nature networks and support decisions that protect and create climate-resilient, nature-rich places across Scotland.
This report gathers existing evidence on the socioeconomic benefits of nature networks and habitat connectivity – linking existing habitats across the landscape and restoring or creating new habitats – with the aim of informing policy implementation at a local level. It includes two Scottish case studies in the Moray Council and Edinburgh City Council areas.
Key findings
- Nature connectivity can provide a range of socioeconomic benefits, including ecosystem services, health and wellbeing, community benefits, economic benefits, and greater climate resilience.
- These benefits are not guaranteed. They depend on the local context and can involve trade-offs between different benefits.
- Case studies in Moray and Edinburgh found similar potential benefits in both rural and urban settings.
- There is currently limited evidence and measurement of socioeconomic benefits in Scotland.
- The evidence base is not yet strong enough to clearly demonstrate the benefits to key groups, particularly farmers and landowners.
- Cost-benefit analysis could help demonstrate the value of developing nature networks to these groups.
- Community engagement is important to ensure that nature networks deliver benefits for local people and communities.
The report recommends clear guidance on the expected outcomes of nature networks, including their socioeconomic benefits, as well as flexible monitoring and evaluation that reflects local circumstances and minimises reporting burdens. Targeted engagement with key groups, including farmers, landowners and local communities, is also recommended to help ensure these benefits are widely shared..
This infographic leaflet by University of Glasgow Centre for Public Policy illustrates the range of wider socioeconomic benefits that an investment in nature networks can offer.
If you require the report in an alternative format, such as a Word document, please contact info@climatexchange.org.uk or 0131 651 4783.
Photo by Simeon Duwel on Unsplash