Scotland's natural assets contribute more than £40 billion to the
economy and support around 260,000 jobs, according to new
research.
The Importance of Natural Capital to the Scottish Economy report
highlights the vital economic contribution the natural world
makes to Scotland and highlights the value of the ecosystems and
the services they provide.
Important industries such as agriculture, fishing and
aquaculture, forestry, water, food and drink and renewables all
rely upon the continued availability of high-quality natural
resources.
The research investigates the economic impact of natural capital,
which is defined as “the renewable and non-renewable stocks of
natural assets, including geology, soil, air, water and plants
and animals that combine to yield a flow of benefits to people.”
The Scottish Government conducted the research to provide the
most up-to-date reflection of the true value of nature to the
Scottish economy, as it is often undervalued or not included in
economic assessments. The study demonstrates the link
between the threats to Scotland's economic performance, and the
economic opportunity associated with increasing nature dependent
sectors.
The Scottish Government's National Strategy for Economic
Transformation (NSET) makes clear that working with and investing
in nature is a top priority of Scotland's wellbeing
economy.
Speaking while visiting Blackthorn Salt in Ayrshire, which
produces salt through filtering sea water, Rural Affairs
Secretary said:
“This research reinforces the vital role of our natural capital
in supporting many of our vital industries – a connection that is
often under-represented when we look at economic performance.
Blackthorn Salt is an excellent example of a business that is
dependent on natural capital, using sustainable, traditional
methods to produce an exceptional products that provides jobs and
can be found in kitchens across the country and beyond.
“The twin crises of climate change and nature loss are
inextricably linked, nature offers some of the best ways to
protect us from the worst impacts of climate change, so it is
essential that we work with partners across the public sector and
private investors to protect biodiversity and reduce our
emissions as we support sustainable businesses utilising our
incredible landscapes and ecosystems.”
NatureScot Chief Executive, Francesca Osowska said:
"Nature is vital for our quality of life and that of future
generations. In Scotland we are fortunate to have rich and varied
landscapes and habitats, with individuals and businesses willing
to step up to the challenge of stopping nature loss with hard
work and investment.
“NatureScot is responding to this urgent need
with leadership of vital programmes such as the £250m
Peatland ACTION fund, the £65m Nature Restoration Fund and the
innovative new Facility for Investment Ready Nature Scotland
(FIRNS) which aims to both restore nature and benefit
communities. "
