A new initiative is launching in Cornwall to pay landowners for projects that benefit nature, such as improving water quality, creating wildlife habitats, and capturing carbon.
Cornwall Council, EnTrade (the UK’s leading marketplace for nature recovery) and Arup have partnered to introduce the Cornwall LINC Nature Market, an online marketplace where businesses and organisations can invest in environmental improvements across the county.
The EnTrade marketplace makes it easier for companies to support environmental projects while giving landowners new opportunities to earn income. By connecting buyers and suppliers of nature-based solutions, Cornwall LINC Nature Market helps tackle issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
Councillor Martyn Alvey, Cornwall’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, said:
"This is a great opportunity for landowners to contribute to Cornwall’s environmental goals while also benefiting financially. We encourage everyone to explore how they can get involved."
Guy Thompson, Managing Director at EnTrade said:
"Nature is in crisis, and we need a fundamental re-think on how we fund nature recovery. By bringing the EnTrade market mechanism to the Cornwall Natural Capital Exchange we will unlock private investment to restore local ecosystems, support farmers and drive sustainable land management, ensuring long-term environmental and economic benefits for the region."
Amy Coulthard, Market Development Director at EnTrade, added:
"Nature-based solutions are key to addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. By working together, we can create a market that delivers real benefits for both people and the environment."
Through the platform, businesses can offset their environmental impact by buying “environmental credits” from landowners who are improving local ecosystems. This system ensures funds go directly to projects that protect and restore Cornwall’s natural landscapes. A short film about how the market works is available here.
EnTrade and Arup, both specialists in environmental solutions, have partnered with Cornwall Council to develop this system. Their expertise ensures that investments are transparent, effective, and beneficial for all involved.
Landowners, businesses, and community groups interested in participating can contact the team linc@cornwall.gov.uk to learn more.