Earlier this week, the TB Macaulay Lecture was held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre. This annual event honors Dr. Thomas Bassett Macaulay, former President and Chairman of the Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, whose investment led to the establishment of the original Macaulay Institute for Soil Research in 1930.
Dr. Macaulay, a descendant of the Isle of Lewis Macaulay family, sought to enhance Scottish agricultural productivity. His vision is carried forward by the James Hutton Institute today.
In its 45th year, the lecture began with remarks from Gillian Martin MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy. She stated: “Public sector commitments alone will not suffice; responsible private sector actions and investments in Scotland’s environment are essential for addressing the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.”
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The conference then featured Professor Gretchen C. Daily, co-founder and faculty director of the Stanford Natural Capital Project. She is also the Bing Professor of Environmental Science, Senior Fellow at the Woods Institute, and Director of the Centre for Conservation Biology at Stanford University. A member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the American Philosophical Society, Professor Daily has received numerous international accolades, including the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement (2020), BBVA Frontiers of Knowledge Award (2019), Blue Planet Prize (2017), Volvo Environment Prize (2012), Midori Prize for Biodiversity (2010), and the International Cosmos Prize (2009).
In her lecture, Professor Daily highlighted advancements in understanding humanity’s dependence on nature. She stressed not only the material essentials—nutrition, health, climate, and economic security—but also deeper connections like belonging and spirituality. She emphasised that making this knowledge accessible and actionable is vital for driving the significant societal changes needed to protect the biosphere and secure humanity’s future.
Professor Daily showcased the global movement toward integrating the value of natural ecosystems, lands, waters, and biodiversity into mainstream decision-making. She provided examples of successful models for valuing nature in policy, planning, finance, and practice, many originating in smaller countries with the potential for global relevance.
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She referred to a study conducted, in conjunction with The Natural Capital Project, on a coffee farm in Costa Rica adjacent to a native tropical forest. The study assessed the impact of pollinators, such as bees, and pest control species, like birds and bats, on the farm. Professor Daily noted: “Being near the forest resulted in a 20% increase in yield and a 50% improvement in coffee bean quality, boosting the farm’s income by $60,000 per year—70-80% of its total income.”
Regarding pest control, the study included netted enclosures to measure the impact of birds and bats on pest control from the coffee berry borer insect. Professor Daily highlighted that proximity to the forest reduced pest infestation by 50% over a couple of years, primarily due to birds. Effects varied with seasonal activity and weather conditions.
She highlighted: “Being near the forest reduces pest infestation by 50% within the couple of years of trials, mostly thanks to birds. Factors including the activity at certain times of years, weather conditions varied their effects.
This study provided just on example of an array of nature enhancing approaches. As Scotland works towards a strategic approach to natural capital with the aim of achieving a Nature Positive Scotland by 2030, Professor Daily emphasised the need to recognise the value of natural capital in transitioning to a sustainable economy and society. She also reflected on the policies and practices adopted by other countries.
The TB Macaulay Lecture, organised by the Macaulay Development Trust in collaboration with the James Hutton Institute, aimed to bridge scientific evidence with broader society impacts. It aimed to engage those who influenced and shaped policy decisions on critical issues affecting land and people.
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