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Guidance

Nature recovery activity: data model and specification

Find out how to record information about nature recovery activities in a consistent way.

From:
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and Natural England
Published:
16 September 2026

Documents

Nature recovery activity: using the data model and specification

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Nature recovery activity data specification

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Details

The nature recovery activity data model and specification provide a consistent way to record information about nature recovery activities.

They can be used by:

  • individuals and organisations recording information about nature recovery activities
  • organisations developing forms, templates or systems to collect nature recovery data

This page contains the following documents:

  • Nature recovery activity: using the data model and specification – this guidance explains how to use the data model and specification to record nature recovery activity data
  • Nature recovery activity data specification – this spreadsheet contains the data fields, associated standards and allowable values used to record data in line with the data model

The data model and specification are subject to change. They may be updated based on feedback.

Why use the data model and specification

Using the data model and specification is voluntary. However, a common approach to recording nature recovery activity data can help you:

  • record information consistently
  • collect information once and use it for multiple purposes
  • co-ordinate activity with partners
  • support reporting towards environmental objectives and targets
  • demonstrate what you’ve achieved to the public and partners
  • identify opportunities for future investment and action

Updates to this page

Published 16 September 2026

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