Natural capital
The Problem
Our stock of natural resources is in decline. This is compounded by climate change, and in return accelerates climate change, a spiral of decline that must be broken.
Our Response
Through habitat enhancement and expansion, ICaN enriches biodiversity, creating more resilient and productive ecosystems. This supports nature recovery and other natural capital assets, effectively reversing the decline.
ICaN uses Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) to measure the economic value of ecosystem services. Our Valuation Tool demonstrates how habitat improvements increase the annual economic value (Enabling a Natural Capital Approach guidance). For example, species‑rich meadows store more carbon than amenity grass.
Why It Matters
Natural Capital refers to the world’s stock of natural resources including geology, soils, air, water and all living organisms. These natural resources provide the essential ecosystem services that support all life and underpin our economy and society.
The economy and society are intimately dependent on the health of the natural environment. (State of Natural Capital Report for England is now published – Natural England)
Reframing nature as an economic asset highlights its role in supporting society and the economy. This approach supports and encourages better decision‑making and investment in natural resources.
Key Stat
“Between 2001–2021 the world lost 437 million hectares of tree cover.”
“One in four species are at risk of extinction.”
“No single stretch of river in England or Northern Ireland is in good overall health.”
“All UK ecosystem assets, and almost all the benefits they provide, are at high or medium-high risk.” NERR137 Edition 1 State of Natural Capital Report for England 2024 - Risks to nature and why it matters.pdf