Economic benefits
The natural environment provides valuable services that contribute to the local economy. It helps reduce the burden on the healthcare system, supports farming and agriculture, and acts as a carbon sink (anything that absorbs more carbon from the atmosphere than it releases), which can be seen as natural capital. By protecting and enhancing nature, councils can unlock economic opportunities and create a more sustainable and resilient economy.
Health and wellbeing
Access to green spaces and nature has been proven to have positive impacts on people's physical and mental health. Trees and other vegetation act to filter out pollutants, improving air and water quality. By prioritising green infrastructure delivery and nature recovery, councils can improve the well-being of their residents, leading to healthier and happier communities. This, in turn, can reduce healthcare costs and increase productivity.
Climate change mitigation and adaptation
Nature plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Protecting and restoring habitats such as peatlands, woodlands, and coastal marine areas can help councils achieve their climate targets and contribute to national and international climate action efforts. Additionally, nature-based solutions, such as sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS), peatland restoration and habitat expansion, can also help reduce the impacts of climate change, such as flooding and over-heating.
Legal obligations
Councils have duties under the Habitats Regulations and Wildlife and Countryside Act to look after protected sites and species. The Environment Act 2021 has strengthened the NERC Act 2016 biodiversity duty of councils, requiring them to have regard for biodiversity and report on their efforts to protect and enhance it. Councils also have powers to declare local nature reserves, set up community forests, and develop local nature recovery strategies. By fulfilling these legal obligations, councils can demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Social justice and equality
Access to green spaces and nature should be equitable, ensuring that all communities have equal opportunities to benefit from nature. By investing in nature recovery and green infrastructure, councils can address social inequalities and create more inclusive and accessible environments for all residents.