The Route Map is a practical guide for landowners, developers, and investors. It shows how to involve local communities from the start, agree fair outcomes, and make sure natural capital projects – like peatland restoration, woodland creation, and biodiversity work – bring real benefits to the people who live and work in those areas.

Natural capital investment is growing quickly across Scotland. It brings big opportunities to restore nature and support local economies – but it must also deliver positive change for communities.

Emma Cooper, head of land rights and responsibilities at the Scottish Land Commission, said: “We’ve heard from communities and landowners that people want to work together – they just need the right tools and support. This Route Map is about starting honest conversations early, building trust, and making sure local people are part of shaping what happens on their land. It’s a practical way to help ensure the benefits of nature investment are shared fairly and really make a difference to communities.”

The Route Map supports Scottish Government policy on nature investment outlined in the Natural Capital Market Framework.

The Route Map was shaped by the experience of five pilot projects in Scotland and one in England, with input from landowners, land managers, community representatives and the Community Benefit Advisory Group. Amanda Bryan (Aigas Associates) was contracted by the Commission to lead the development.

The work was delivered by Deciding Matters and the Nature Finance Certification Alliance (NFCA), funded through the Facility for Investment Ready Nature in Scotland (FIRNS). It was supported by NatureScot in partnership with The National Lottery Heritage Fund.