Report with Plantlife & WWF: Farming income for semi-natural grasslands

Semi-natural grasslands are rich in biodiversity and vital for ecosystem health, but they’re also under pressure. This article explores how natural capital thinking can help farmers unlock new income streams while preserving these valuable landscapes. By recognising the ecological value of grasslands and aligning land management with nature-positive outcomes, farmers can access funding, enhance resilience, and contribute to broader environmental goals.

In our latest report for Plantlife and WWF, SLR delves into the vital role of semi-natural grasslands in Britain's agricultural landscape. We discuss economic realities and opportunities for farmers managing Britain's semi-natural grasslands. Central to our analysis is the exploration of how sustainable management of these grasslands can be economically viable and beneficial for farmers. Our evidence-based analysis explores innovative economic models for diversifying income streams.

You can read the full report here: Report: Farming income for semi-natural grasslands or download it at the side of the page.

You can also read more about sustainable farming on the Plantlife website and watch their video on the topic.

This is the third related project SLR has worked on with Plantlife and WWF in 2023. You can read more about our past projects here – understanding grassland habitats with Plantlife and WWF.

Review of trends in grasslands across the UK

Our first report sought to understand what’s been happening to grasslands over time, where that often-quoted figure of 97% loss in grasslands since WW2 comes from, and what it really refers to.

Valuing the vital: Grassland ecosystem services in the UK

Our second report looks at what benefits grasslands provide and where the threats and opportunities lie in championing grassland ecosystem services, particularly in the UK.

All three reports have been prepared by SLR’s Ecology & Biodiversity team – including Bob Edmonds, Ellen Miller and Paul Watkinson.