The importance of biodiversity and natural capital in delivering health benefits is increasingly recognised within the NHS and is at the core of the NHS Lothian Green Health Strategy. As a result of the pandemic, there has been a re-appreciation of outdoor space, the value it brings and the role the NHS Lothian’s estate can play in a green recovery.

With 81 hectares of greenspace throughout its estate, NHS Lothian has significant natural capital that supports biodiversity as well as bringing with it a wide range of health and wellbeing benefits.

Edinburgh & Lothian Health Foundation are working with NHS Lothian to commission a Biodiversity Audit of the estate. This will help to realise the full potential of the estate not only as an environmental asset but also as a community and health asset, and understand what actions can be taken to protect, enhance and expand these.

The audit, conducted by Natural Capital Solutions, is at the forefront of sustainable development approaches in NHS Scotland, with NHS Lothian being the first health board in Scotland to undertake such a comprehensive assessment of their biodiversity.

Ian Mackenzie, Green Health Programme Manager at Edinburgh and Lothians Health Foundation, said:

Edinburgh and Lothians Health Foundation was delighted to work together with NHS Lothian, Natural Capital Solutions and Greenspace Scotland on this Biodiversity Audit. The importance of biodiversity and natural capital in delivering health benefits is at the core of the Foundation’s Green Health Strategy. As a result of the pandemic, there has been a re-appreciation of outdoor space and the value it brings, and this report helps recognise how NHS Lothian’s estate can support a green recovery.

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greenspace is our natural health service

greenspace scotland is working with NHS Lothian, Edinburgh & Lothians Health Foundation and a wide range of partners and stakeholders on the delivery of the Greenspace and Health Strategic Framework for Edinburgh & Lothians - the first Scottish health board-led Green Health Strategy.

Take a look at our greenspace and health pages