Ecosystem Services and Natural Capital Assessment Methodology
As part of our continued engagement with the Environment Agency’s (EA) Collaborative Delivery Framework (CDF), we have developed a bespoke Ecosystem Services and Natural Capital Assessment methodology. Integration of this framework at Pevensey Gates and Thorney Island means clients now have an improved understanding of their most relevant ecosystem services and realignment options.
- Client Environment Agency
- Location UK
- Services
Challenge
Two previous examples of our framework integration took place within the Thorney Island Habitat Creation Natural Capital Assessment and the Pevensey Levels Ecosystem Services Report.
At Thorney Island, the client sought to commit to a Managed Realignment (MR) incorporating a habitat creation programme as part of their commitment to the Regional Habitat Creation Programme (RHCP). Our Natural Capital Framework was therefore tasked to ensure that a preferable management option was chosen based on current and future ecosystem service analysis. Whilst at Pevensey (Star Inn Gates), a preliminary ecosystem services scoping assessment was undertaken to better understand the wider environmental advantages and disadvantages work to the Star Inn structure and the Pevensey Levels may cause.
Solution
Both projects utilised our comprehensive ecosystem services and natural capital approach, which allowed our clients to gain an improved understanding of their most relevant ecosystem services - with future potential for grounding in economic terms at Pevensey. Whilst the Thorney Island natural capital assessment provided valuable insight through a net change in ecosystem services benefits for effective comparison of their realignment options.
Benefit
On both occasions, the framework proved to be a useful feature as a part of a comprehensive decision-making process. At Thorney Island, we were able to deliver Managed Realignment options, alongside the priority benefits outlined. Whilst at Pevensey, key ecosystem services were highlighted alongside the potential for a more detailed quantitative economic assessment with accurate costs and benefits.
For more information about either of these projects please email Angus Pettit.
Services
Delivering transformative technology that is pioneering in the pursuit of flood, water and environmental resilience.
Find out more
Developing leading resilience strategies and solutions founded on the integrated modelling and assessment of water quantity, quality and environmental processes.
Find out more
Working within a robust and mature digital delivery environment, our engineering specialists work closely with our modelling, hydrology and environmental teams to ensure designs are developed to create efficient, low-carbon and sustainable solutions.
Find out more
Our specialists in landscape, heritage, ecology, fisheries, EIA, planning and sustainability all work collaboratively with our engineering designers, modellers and our project managers to develop resilient places.
Find out more
Our proven skills and experience make us a natural partner to help support communities and organisations to become more resilient. We support and empower our clients to manage the twin risks of flood and drought, encouraging and delivering effective water management.
Find out more
Working with communities across the world to identify and mitigate flood and environmental risks, support sustainable development and build resilience.
Find out more
