The Trust is urging decision-makers to place more value on green infrastructure following a new report published by the UK Green Building Council.

Green infrastructure is the term for natural features in towns, cities and villages. These range in scale from street trees, green roofs and private gardens to parks, wetlands and forests. 

The ‘Demystifying Green Infrastructure’ report outlines the multiple benefits that green infrastructure can have for people, wildlife and the economy such as increased health, better biodiversity and higher house prices. A simple example of this would be the benefits derived from a neighbourhood park. It can be used by residents for fitness and well-being, but also provides habitat for wildlife and is an attractive feature for future buyers.

The Trust’s Cumbernauld Living Landscape and Edinburgh Living Landscape projects are working with planners, developers and decision-makers so green infrastructure is not a forgotten part of the process. By planning for nature at a strategic level not only will Scotland’s wildlife benefit but so will people. 

Head of Policy and Planning for the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Dr Maggie Keegan, said: “The Trust’s 50 years experience has taught us that nature-rich, high-quality places – in the urban core or in the suburbs – help create attractive, vibrant, liveable neighbourhoods, attract investment and foster community pride.

“The Scottish Wildlife Trust would urge decision-makers to pay close attention to this report and start placing more value on the importance of green infrastructure. The Cumbernauld and Edinburgh Living Landscape projects are making inroads with decision-makers but this issue needs more attention if we are to build the best Scotland for people, wildlife and business.”

To read the Trust’s policy on natural greenspaces in towns and cities, please click here.

The executive summary of the Edinburgh Living Landscape can be accessed by clicking this link.

Click here to find out more about the Cumbernauld Living Landscape.