Environment

Biosecurity for Scotland is calling for all island residents and businesses in Scotland to share their views and help co-design a national island biosecurity programme to safeguard island-breeding seabirds in the long term.

The seventh Pollinator Strategy Progress Report details the work being done by individuals, local authorities, environmental groups, researchers and particularly community groups across the country in support of the Pollinator Strategy for Scotland.

The Scottish Government and NatureScot, working in partnership with the National Lottery Heritage Fund, are launching the third round of Facility for Investment Ready Nature in Scotland (FIRNS), the programme of support to help scale up private investment in Scotland’s natural capital.

The biggest ever Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards is back for 2025 with a new prize and plans for a 40th birthday celebration.

The new Urban Forestry Award, sponsored by Future Woodlands Scotland is all about celebrating the projects that are turning towns and cities into greener, healthier and more sustainable places to live.

Ambitious plans to create a major new renewables hub in Orkney have been accelerated with a £5 million grant to help take the project to the next stage.

The funding will further the development of a new harbour facility for the assembly of offshore wind turbines at Scapa Flow - the largest natural harbour in the northern hemisphere.

Scientists in Scotland have developed a new method to understand the heat and intensity of fires that burned out millions of years ago, which could unlock our understanding of wildfires during past and present periods of climate change.

Inspiring and influential voices in the sustainable tourism sector have come together to focus on the opportunity for environmental improvement.

Environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful coordinated the event, hosted by the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, onboard Fingal in Edinburgh on Thursday 6 February 2025.

Woodland birds have seen the largest indicator increase of over 50%. Chiffchaff numbers have increased 1428% - most probably driven by increasing temperatures – as well as great spotted woodpeckers by 699% and blackcap by 593%. 

Scottish Forestry has confirmed that the Windblow Contingency Plan has been stood down in Scotland.

Farmer-led groups are recommending the Whole Farm Plan to support farmers and crofters in taking a holistic view of their businesses.

By establishing their current performance and activities, farmers and crofters can identify opportunities for improvement and work towards greater productivity and profitability, positioning their business to contribute to meeting Scotland’s climate and nature targets.