Scotland’s natural capital accounts for 2019 have been released, revealing the estimated value of Scottish natural capital and its beneficial effects on the population. According to the report, the total asset value of natural capital in Scotland is estimated to be £230 billion in 2019, which represents 13% of the total UK asset value. The annual value of ecosystem services in Scotland is estimated to be £15 billion in 2019, accounting for 30% of the total UK annual value. Provisioning services, such as oil and gas (£12 billion) and agricultural biomass (£706 million), contribute significantly to Scotland’s annual value. The regulating service with the highest annual value is air pollution removal, which is worth £145 million in avoided health impacts. The report also highlights the asset value of health benefits from recreation, estimated to be £51 billion in 2019. Additionally, the report mentions the increase in renewable electricity generation in Scotland, which was three times greater in 2021 compared to 2008, despite a 15% decrease between 2020 and 2021. However, it is important to note that the extent of mountain, moorland, and heath in Scotland decreased from 34% to 26% between 1990 and 2021. These natural capital accounts provide valuable insights into Scotland’s natural resources and their contribution to the economy and well-being of the population.
Scotland’s Natural Capital Valued at £230 Billion, Contributing to Population’s Well-being, Reveals Latest UK Report
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