Cornwall Launches new programme to boost investment in nature

Cornwall is stepping into a pioneering role with the launch of the Local Investment in Nature Cornwall (LINC) programme, a major effort by Cornwall Council to draw private investment into the revitalisation of natural landscapes and ecosystems across the region.

Investing in Cornwall’s Natural Beauty

The newly introduced LINC programme is designed to connect potential investors and funders from around the globe with a range of ready-to-go natural capital projects. This programme offers businesses and other organisations an opportunity to invest in environmental projects, aligning with their ecological commitments and supporting nature in Cornwall.

Through LINC: Cornwall’s Natural Capital Exchange, landowners who possess projects in need of funding will be directly linked to investors. This facilitates a streamlined process for funding vital environmental projects.

Variety of Environmental Projects

Investors will have a range of innovative nature recovery projects to choose from, such as:

• Large-scale tree planting
• Creation of wildflower meadows
• Restoration of seagrass beds and rivers
• Development of new wildlife habitats in urban settings

These projects not only aim to meet the investors’ environmental targets but also contribute to carbon capture, climate change mitigation, and provide additional benefits like natural flood management and improved water quality.

Strategic Environmental Goals

The projects highlighted by the LINC programme align with Cornwall Council’s ambitious targets set in the Environmental Growth Strategy and the forthcoming Local Nature Recovery Strategy. The goal is to ensure that 30% of Cornwall’s land, rivers, and sea areas are well managed for nature by 2030.

Martyn, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for environment and climate change, emphasised the critical need for such funding: “Cornwall is world-renowned for its environment and natural resources… However, we know that nature is facing increasing threats. This programme is a key tool to increase funding and investment to deliver on local priorities and offer a great environment for all.”

Explore More Investment Opportunities

Further investment opportunities within the LINC programme include:

• Species reintroduction, e.g., water voles, beavers, wild cats
• Planting for pollinators
• Seagrass recovery
• Regenerative farming
• Protection for invertebrates
• Floodplain and river restoration
• Cornish hedge restoration

Potential investors and funders are encouraged to visit the programme’s website at www.linc-cornwall.com to explore additional projects and investment opportunities.

National Pilot and Funding

The LINC programme forms part of a two-year national pilot, the Local Investment in Natural Capital pilot, funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. This pilot aims to develop frameworks across four local authorities to boost private funding for nature, setting a precedent for how local governments can leverage private investment for environmental and ecological benefits.