A new study has revealed a steady increase in how Scotland’s natural environment benefits people, with agricultural habitats and outdoor recreation showing the most notable improvements.
The biennial Natural Capital Asset Index (NCAI) tracks the ability of Scotland’s ecosystems to provide essential social, environmental, and economic benefits.
NatureScot’s latest findings show a 2.9% long-term rise in these benefits since 2000, reflecting positive changes in air and water quality, biodiversity, and public engagement with nature.
A key highlight of the report is the improvement in agricultural habitats, which have been on an upward trend since 2018.
Farmers adopting eco-friendly practices such as reducing fertiliser and pesticide use and participating in agri-environment schemes have played a crucial role in this progress.
These actions have boosted the ability of agricultural landscapes to support biodiversity and enhance ecosystem services for people across Scotland.
Another striking trend is the rise in the number of people spending time in nature, which saw a dramatic increase during the pandemic.
In 2019, 56% of Scots reported visiting nature at least once a week, a figure that surged to 79% in 2020.
Although this number has slightly declined since then, it remains significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels, with 70% of people continuing to enjoy Scotland’s natural spaces in 2022.
This shift underscores the growing recognition of nature’s role in mental and physical wellbeing.
Despite these positive trends, the report also highlights areas where Scotland’s natural capital is under threat.
Freshwater, heathland, and woodland habitats have all declined in condition compared to 2000 levels, signalling the need for urgent conservation efforts.
NatureScot economist Aidan Price acknowledged the progress made but stressed that much work remains to be done to restore Scotland’s natural assets to their historical highs of the 1950s.
He pointed to the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy Delivery Plan and the forthcoming Natural Environment Bill as critical tools for driving further improvements.
Scotland is also playing its part in the global effort to protect 30% of the planet for nature by 2030, an initiative expected to further strengthen the country’s natural capital in the years ahead.
The message from the report is clear: while Scotland’s nature is providing more benefits to people than it has in decades, ongoing conservation and restoration efforts are essential to ensure this trend continues.
With sustained commitment and action, Scotland can build a nature-rich future that supports wellbeing, biodiversity, and the economy alike.
