Valuing natural capital

The issue and impact

In the past, soil was valued simply on its ability to support the production of plant­ based products. But soil also stores, regulates and filters water and chemicals. In the 21st century, the value of soil must reflect all its environmental benefits if markets and institutions are to ensure its efficient and sustainable use.

Our soils and water are a competitive advantage and we need to be able to value this natural capital to underpin rational land use decision-making and resource allocation by industry and policy makers.

Research needs

• Develop quantitative methodologies to assign value to natural resource capital and evaluate resource use per unit product
• Develop dynamic models that can link resource usage with ecosystem functioning
• Define the risks and quantify the value of strategies to maintain soil resilience.