Green space delivers increasing value to society: economic value rises to 11.5 billion |
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New figures underline the importance of investing in green space for recreation, climate and the living environment
Forests, parks and other natural areas are delivering increasing value to Dutch society. The economic value of so-called ecosystem services rose by 35 percent between 2016 and 2023, reaching 11.5 billion. This is shown by the latest figures from the Natural Capital Accounts. Recreation and the growing demand for a green living environment are the main contributors to this increase.
Ecosystem services are the benefits that nature provides for people and society. Examples include cooling, water storage, air purification, CO₂ storage, biodiversity and recreation. According to the researchers, the value of cultural ecosystem services, such as recreation and experiencing nature, has increased the most.
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The societal value of nature increased by 35 percent in seven years
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Forests make the largest contribution
Forests represent the highest societal value of all ecosystem types, with a value of 3.5 billion. Grasslands follow with 2.5 billion. The researchers emphasise that the actual value of nature is probably even higher. The effects of natural pest control and health benefits, for example, have not yet been fully included in the calculations.
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Forests provide the highest societal value of all ecosystems, at 3.5 billion
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Additional argument for investing in green space
The increase is not only due to people making greater use of nature, but also because they place more value on a green living environment. Demand for recreation and living in green surroundings is growing, while the quality of ecosystems is under pressure.
For municipalities, the figures provide additional support for investing in public green space. Green space contributes not only to climate adaptation, biodiversity and a healthy living environment, but also represents an increasingly significant economic value for society.
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The actual value of nature is probably even higher than current calculations indicate
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This article was previously published on 30 July 2026 on the website of Stad + Groen.
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