Mersey Forest
Mersey Forest
Discover the true impact of your green infrastructure initiatives with our Social Value Calculator. Developed in partnership with Steer Economic Development for England’s Community Forests, this innovative tool allows project managers, planners, and environmental advocates to evidence and quantify the robust socio-economic benefits of their work. From evaluating physical and mental well-being enhancements to estimating economic impacts, local place improvements, and biodiversity gains, this calculator turns environmental stewardship into clear, actionable data to strengthen your business cases and funding applications.
We believe that nature-based solutions thrive on collaboration and shared learning. That is why we are releasing this tool under a Creative Commons licence. By making it freely accessible, we aim to foster an active community of users who can help us test, develop, and hone the calculator. Together, we can refine its methodologies, expand its capabilities, and ensure it becomes an even more valuable resource for supporting green projects and programmes across the country. In time, we hope this collaborative approach will help establish a community of practice focused on strengthening how we measure and evidence the value of nature-based solutions.
As we work together to perfect this resource, please note that the tool is currently shared as an iterative project for collaborative refinement. Consequently, the calculator is used entirely at the individual’s own risk. While every effort has been made to build a robust framework based on current literature, we bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions, or subsequent outcomes resulting from its use.
We invite you to download the calculator, explore its features, and join us in shaping the future of green infrastructure valuation. Your insights and real-world testing are exactly what will help us build a more sustainable, well-evidenced future for our woodlands and communities. Dive in, calculate your impact, and help us all grow!