Environment

With the spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, we now have more opportunities to enjoy Scotland's great outdoors - it's a good time to remind ourselves about our rights and responsibilities outlined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

The next steps in reforming Scotland’s aquaculture regulatory system have been outlined by the Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon.

Speaking at an industry sector conference in Aviemore, Ms Gougeon announced the formation of a consenting task group to make rapid progress on streamlining the aquaculture consenting system.

Farmers, crofters and land managers now have access to the new guidance on financial support for activity that will improve awareness of their climate performance.

Today (28th April) marks the beginning of the Dandelion programme - a six-month creative celebration of growing, music and community rooted in Scotland but with an international outlook, and with sustainability at its heart. 

Climate change has already caused a rapid and extensive warming of Scotland’s lochs and reservoirs with impacts expected to intensify, research has revealed for the first time.

A report published by Scotland’s Centre of Expertise for Waters (CREW), shows that between 2015 and 2019, 97% of monitored Scottish lochs and reservoirs have increased in temperature. While most warmed by up to 1.0°C per year over this period, 9% increased by more than that – some by up to 1.3°C per year.

Nature champions, pioneering businesses, and passionate community groups are being encouraged to enter Nature of Scotland Awards 2022.

Farmers, crofters and agricultural contractors will be able to apply for Sustainable Agriculture Capital Grant Scheme from 26th April, which will offer funding for equipment with a recognised evidence base to protect the water environment and reduce the agricultural impact on climate change and air qu

On Monday 11th April the Scottish Islands Passport was officially launched in South Ronaldsay. The app, which is now available on Google Play and Apple App Store, aims to help more people discover what Scottish islands have to offer - for more information and to download the app visit www.islands.scot.  

Environmental charity Trees for Life is selling carbon credits in UK's first community carbon share, raising cash for community projects and habitat restoration work in the Scottish Highlands.