A set of indicative maps has been produced that show the stock of ‘natural capital’ the Scottish Borders may currently provide through existing land use. The maps demonstrate opportunities where ecosystem services could be extended, and locations where multiple benefits from ecosystem services could be generated. Potential constraints and interactions with existing land use, primarily agriculture, is also identified. Benefit, opportunity, interaction and natural capital maps have been created for four ecosystem services: natural flood management; improved water quality; enhanced soil carbon; and enhanced biodiversity. The maps are intended to be used by landowners making applications under the Scottish Rural Development Programme, as well as for use by local communities and in evaluating ecological networks.
Scottish Borders Council, Environment Systems
Four ecosystem services were selected to map
Which ecosystem services were focused on?:
- Carbon sequestration & storage
- Detoxification and purification in air, soils and water
- Flood control
- Hazard regulation
Land Use Framework Online Maps, available at: https://www.scotborders.gov.uk/info/20013/environment/723/biodiversity/5
Scottish Borders Regional Land Use Framework Mapping Tool, User Manual