Agile Opportunity Maps
Visit Tool
Tool Description
The Agile Initiative Opportunity Maps are an open-source spatial decision-support tool which identifies opportunities for nature recovery and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) across England using nationally available spatial datasets and ecosystem service modelling approaches. The maps are intended to help users identify locations where interventions may maximise ecosystem service benefits while minimising trade-offs. The framework is designed as a participatory decision-support process and should be used alongside stakeholder engagement, local expertise, and ground-truthing.
Running the Tool
Tool Inputs
National spatial datasets, habitat data, ecosystem service indicators, user-defined geographic areas, and optional locally supplied datasets.
Resource Requirements
GIS software (ArcGIS or QGIS compatible outputs), Python software
time Requirements
Days to weeks | Time requirements vary widely depending on geographic scale and data preparation
SKILL Requirements
GIS and spatial analysis knowledge; understanding of ecosystem services
How does it work?
The Agile Opportunity Maps combine habitat mapping, ecosystem service modelling, and rule-based spatial analysis to identify areas suitable for nature recovery and Nature-based Solutions interventions.
The tool works via the following workflow:
- Creation of a baseline habitat map
- Addition of environmental and socio-ecological datasets
- Estimation of ecosystem service and biodiversity scores
- Identification of restoration and enhancement opportunities
- Optional assessment of intervention outcomes and trade-offs
Using Tool Outputs
Tool Outputs
Baseline habitat maps, ecosystem service maps and scores, nature recovery opportunity maps, priority habitat networks, GIS datasets and spreadsheets.
How can the tool be used to inform decisions?
The tool can support Local Nature Recovery Strategies, nature recovery planning, biodiversity enhancement, natural flood management, carbon and climate planning, and landscape-scale restoration. The ecosystem service scoring framework allows users to assess existing ecosystem service delivery and identify locations where interventions may increase environmental and societal benefits. Outputs can also support scenario analysis and comparison of alternative restoration strategies.
Limitations of Use
Opportunity maps are indicative and require local validation and ground-truthing. Some datasets included in the Agile Opportunity maps (e.g. OS MasterMap, soil, and hedgerow datasets) have licensing restrictions.
Validation
The methodology has been tested through partnerships with local authorities, conservation organisations, and Local Nature Recovery Strategy development processes.
Case Studies
The Agile Opportunity Maps have been applied to Oxfordshire Treescape Project applications and Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Local Nature Recovery Strategy mapping.
Developer Organisations
The Agile Initiative Opportunity Maps were developed through the Agile Initiative at the Oxford Martin School, University of Oxford, including researchers from the Environmental Change Institute, Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery, and Nature-based Solutions Initiative, in collaboration with policymakers, local authorities, and environmental practitioners.
