Protected lands generate millions of dollars for individuals and the community. Natural areas are green in more ways than one, according to a new study that documents the economic advantages of preserving sensitive lands – like the 11,000 acres protected by Metro’s voter-approved Natural Areas Program.
Protected lands in Southeastern Pennsylvania generate millions of dollars for individuals and the community, according to the Return on Environment report commissioned by the GreenSpace Alliance and the area’s regional planning commission. The economic benefits touched on many aspects of everyday life, including recreation, health, housing and jobs. Among the findings:
- natural areas add $16.3 billion to the value of southeastern Pennsylvania’s housing stock
- natural areas’ ability to filter out pollutants and replenish water generates $61 million in annual savings.
- trees on protected land provide $17 million in annual air pollution removal and carbon sequestration services
- health-related cost savings from physical activity in natural areas total $1.3 billion.
- economic activity associated with natural areas results in nearly 7,000 jobs and $300 million in earnings.