Islands-Future, a conference dedicated to exploring the future of Scotland’s islands.

Join The Royal Society of Edinburgh for the Islands – Future, a conference dedicated to exploring the future of Scotland’s islands.

This unique gathering will delve into critical and diverse themes from sustainable economies, archaeological pursuits and youth outmigration, to marine biology and environmental stewardship. By bringing together leading experts and community voices, we aim to inspire innovative solutions and foster meaningful discussions about these vibrant communities’ challenges and opportunities.

Islands – Future is an essential event for anyone invested in the well-being and prosperity of Scotland’s islands. Attendees will gain insights into cutting-edge research, sustainable practices, and strategic initiatives designed to enhance island life. Whether you’re a policymaker, researcher, local resident, or industry professional, this event offers a platform to connect, share ideas, and collaborate on shaping a resilient and thriving future for the islands.

Islands – Past, Present, and Future

The Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Islands—Past, Present, and Future event series spotlights the complex stories of Scotland’s Island communities, looking back, taking stock, and imagining the future.

With each instalment taking place in a different island community and live-streamed to ensure the widest possible reach, the Royal Society of Edinburgh aims to support networks of learning and knowledge sharing in the Islands as well as Scotland as a whole.

This series is in partnership with UHI North West and Hebrides, and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Programme:

Day 1: Friday 21st June

Islands: Future (Looking ahead to a sustainable economy, health and wellbeing)

13:00 - 13:10 | Welcome and introduction - day 1

13:15 – 13:40 | An introduction to the Scottish Islands |Professor Christopher A Whatley OBE, FRSE

13:45 – 14:10 | Creative archaeology in the digital university |Dr Antonia Thomas, Programme Leader, MA Contemporary Art & Archaeology, University of the Highlands and Islands & Lecturer in Archaeology, Archaeology Institute, UHI Orkney

14:15 – 14:35 | Break

14:35 – 15:00 | Marine environment and the future of marine environment |Professor Joanne S Porter, Professor Marine Science/ Heriot Watt University Orkney Campus

15:05 – 15:30 | The Scottish islands and youth migration |Dr Rosie Alexander, Lecturer, University of the West of Scotland

15:35 - 16:00 | Rising Tides: the future for cultural tourism in island archipelagos |Professor Donna Heddle FRSE, Head of Research Environment and Culture/Director of the Institute for Northern Studies, University of the Highlands and Islands

16:05 – 16:30 | Islands – Future: Through the Lens of an Islander |

Anne Byers, Islander (Incomer)

16:35 – 17:00 | Speaker TBC

Day 2: Saturday 22nd June

Islands: Future (Opportunities for culture, communities and the environment)

9:00 – 9:10 | Welcome and introduction - day 2

9:15 – 9:40 | Scotland's islands: multiple futures |Professor Michael Anderson FRSE, University of Edinburgh

9:45 – 10:10 | What future for offshore marine renewables? | Erica Knott, Head of Marine Energy, NatureScot

10:15 – 10:35 | Break

10:35 – 11:00 | Community as a decarbonisation technology |Dr Becky Ford, Relief Lecturer, Institute for Northern Studies, UHI & Development Officer, Community Energy Scotland

11:05 – 11:30 | What is next for Salmon farming? | Tavish Scott, Chief Executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation

11:35 - 12:00 | Speaker TBC

12:05 – 12:30 Closing | Professor Des Thompson FRSE and Professor Christopher A Whatley OBE, FRSE