The document discusses the rationale for maintaining and enhancing the UK's Green Belt. It argues that the Green Belt provides natural capital benefits by being located near urban populations, including access to open spaces, improved air quality, health benefits, and biodiversity protection. While some argue building on the Green Belt is necessary for housing or won't significantly impact the environment, the response is that brownfield sites can provide housing, population growth projections are uncertain, and losing even small parts of the Green Belt could undermine the overall natural capital system. Rather than inhibiting economic growth, protecting natural capital is integral to sustainable long-term growth. Overall the Green Belt represents a major economic opportunity if revitalized for the 21st century with enhanced environmental standards and public