Afleveringen

  • Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is an approach that ensures habitats for wildlife are left in a

    measurably better state than they were before development. In England, BNG is mandatory;

    developers must demonstrate and deliver an increase in biodiversity following

    their development of 10%.

    In the last episode of this series, we hear from ecological consultant and future host of

    this podcast, Harry Fisher. We discuss his experience of BNG and how it works,

    including biodiversity metrics, valuing nature, opportunities for Scotland and what

    he is looking forward to as the future host of Natural Capital.

    If you have an idea for future episodes, or want to provide feedback on the series, we would

    love to hear from you. Visit: https://www.fas.scot/sounds-comments-and-suggestions/

    Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross

    Mackenzie.

    Related FAS resources:  

    FAS Biodiversity: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/

    Previous Natural Capital episodes: https://www.fas.scot/sounds/natural-capital/

    Emerging biodiversity markets in Scotland, a source of alternative funding:

    https://www.fas.scot/article/emerging-biodiversity-markets-in-scotland-a-source-of-alternative-funding/

    Other Related Resources:

    Understanding biodiversity net gain: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/understanding-biodiversity-net-gain

    Defra statutory biodiversity metric tools and guides:

    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statutory-biodiversity-metric-tools-and-guides

    Research into approaches to measuring biodiversity in Scotland: https://www.gov.scot/publications/research-approaches-measuring-biodiversity-scotland/

    Timestamps:

    Intro to episode and our new host Harry: 0:00 – 5:10

    What is BNG and its use: 5:11 – 13:13

    Actions to increase biodiversity: 13:14 – 19:12

    Impact and use of BNG on farms:  19:13 – 25:10

    Defra tool, metrics and valuing nature: 25:11 – 33:43

  • Are you looking for funding for projects to promote conservation and tackle climate change? In this episode of Natural Capital we discuss Scotland's Agri-Environment and Climate Scheme (AECS). AECS is the main mechanism used to support farmers wanting to implement sustainable land management practices such as improving water quality, managing flood risk or mitigating and adapting to climate change. We discuss what AECS has to offer with consultants Dr Paul Chapman and Alex Pirie to find out everything about AECS, how to apply and the opportunities it presents to create, restore and enhance natural capital assets.  

    Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie 

    Related FAS resources:   

    FAS Biodiversity: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/  

    FAS Specialist Advice: https://www.fas.scot/specialist-advice/  

    Thrill of the hill: https://www.fas.scot/sounds/thrill-of-the-hill/  

    Other Related Resources: 

    Woodland Trust MOREhedges: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/trees-for-landowners-and-farmers/morehedges  

    Woodland Trust MOREwoods: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/trees-for-landowners-and-farmers/morewoods/  

    Nature restoration fund: https://www.nature.scot/funding-and-projects/scottish-government-nature-restoration-fund-nrf  

    Rural Payments AECS: https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/agri-environment-climate-scheme/  

     Timecodes: 

     What is AECS and how it has developed 2:26 – 11:16  

    Alternative funding and collaboration 11:17 – 15:17 

    The application process 15:18 – 19:20  

    What’s included in this year's AECS 19:21 - 26:08 

    Deadlines, useful info and advice for new applicants 30:28 - 35:07 

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  • In this episode of Natural Capital, we are talking about the issue that underpins every topic we cover, and that is finance and funding! With the economic and other pressures that landowners are facing it is great to be joined today by Steve Dunkley the Regional Agriculture Director at HSBC, and Martin Hanson the Head of Agriculture for HSBC, to share their view on ‘Green Finance’, what they are experiencing from clients and customers, and share their experience with some ‘Green Finance’ projects they have been involved with.  

    Steve Dunkley is HSBC's Regional Agriculture Director for Business Banking in the north. 

    Steve has worked in the farming sector for the last 30 years, from the family farm in the Yorkshire Dales to careers in both consultancy and government.  

    Martin Hanson is the Head of Agriculture for HSBC and works with farming clients helping them grow and flourish providing appropriate working capital and long-term investment support to as many Agricultural Businesses as possible - helping to support the rural communities of the UK, protect the environment and our future. 

    Related FAS resources:   

    FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/    

    FAS Biodiversity Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/     

    Other Related Resources:  

    https://www.business.hsbc.uk/en-gb/solutions/green-sme-fund  

  • For our final episode of 2023 we are getting a bit festive and are speaking to Ollie Mackay at Rothiemurchus Estate. Rothiemurchus is a special and beautiful place in the Highlands of Scotland, at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Ollie is the Head Ranger on the estate and we chat about all the estate’s natural capital assets and his role.   

    We learn about the range of activities and habitats the estate hosts including livestock, farming, beavers and tourism, alongside the pressures and opportunities this creates. Rothiemurchus is the custodian of one of the finest remnants of the Caledonian forest, a natural woodland dominated by Scots Pine that is managed sustainably for nature conservation, recreation, woodland grazing and timber production. Management of the forest has created an opportunity for environmentally friendly Christmas trees, with profits going back in to the upkeep of paths and projects on the estate.  

    Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie.

     

    Related FAS resources:   

    FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

    Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Rewilding | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Living Alongside Beavers | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

     

    Other Related Resources: 

    Home - Cairngorms National Park Authority

    Welcome to Rothiemurchus — Rothiemurchus

    Rothiemurchus Scots Pine Christmas Trees — Rothiemurchus

  • We visit the beautiful island of Islay, finding out about the unique habitats, species and important natural capital assets the island supports. The RSPB Islay reserves have internationally important populations of wintering Barnacle and Greenland White-fronted geese, and are also important for breeding Chough, Corncrake, Lapwing and a range of other wildlife.  

    All these species depend on farming practices and the correct land management to thrive. This creates conflicts and opportunities for land managers and agriculture on the island. To discuss this and lots more, we are joined by farmer Craig Archibald, RSPB Senior Farms Manager Eion Brown and Jack Fleming, Area Manager, RSPB for Argyll, Arran and Ardnamurchan.  

    Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie.  

    Related FAS resources:   

    Goose Management in Scotland: https://www.fas.scot/article/goose-management-in-scotland  Understanding Goose Control Law: https://www.fas.scot/article/understanding-goose-control-law-in-scotland/  Farmland Birds: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/farmland-birds/ FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/    FAS Biodiversity Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/     

      

    Other Related Resources:  

    Argyll Monitor Farm: www.monitorfarms.co.uk/farm/argyll-monitor-farm/  RSPB Loch Gruinart Reserve: https://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/loch-gruinart  RSPB The Oa Reserve: https://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/the-oa  Payments for goose management schemes: https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/land-and-sea-management/managing-wildlife/managing-geese/payments-goose-management-schemes  Islay Sustainable Goose Management Strategy: https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/land-and-sea-management/managing-wildlife/managing-geese/islay-sustainable-goose-management-strategy 

     

  • In this episode of Natural Capital Ross Mackenzie and Janette Sutherland visit Sam Thorburn’s croft on the Isle of Skye. They discuss the natural capital on the islands, Gaelic culture, biodiversity, and crofting life. Gaelic language provides a unique insight and understanding of Scotland’s nature, helping us to understand it better. Central to all Natural Capital is people; our heritage, language, and communities are all important considerations. They provide valuable lessons and traditional ways of doing things, helping to develop successful natural capital projects and effective policy.   

    Guest hosts Ross Mackenzie and Janette Sutherland. 

    Host Rachel Smillie, producer Iain Boyd, executive producer Kerry Hammond, editor Ross Mackenzie. 

    Related FAS resources:  

    FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/   

    FAS Biodiversity Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/    

    FAS Crofts & Small Farms: https://www.fas.scot/rural-business/crofts-small-farms/  

    Other Related Resources: 

    Bòrd na Gàidhlig: https://www.gaidhlig.scot/en/  

    Crofting Commission: https://www.crofting.scotland.gov.uk/  

    Gaelic within NatureScot: https://www.nature.scot/gaelic 

    John Muir Trust Wild Words - Reading the Land: https://www.johnmuirtrust.org/whats-new/news/39-wild-words-reading-the-land#:~:text=Meall%2C%20ubiquitous%20on%20the%20map,is%20a%20high%2C%20rocky%20hill 

    Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority - Our Gaelic Culture: https://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/discover-the-park/our-heritage-culture/our-gaelic-culture/  

  • In this episode of Natural Capital we are getting techy, discussing all things drones, data and technology and how this can be used by land managers to assess, monitor and improve their natural capital assets. Understanding the natural capital you have on your land, its condition and scale is essential to effective land management.  

    To help us understand this better we are joined by Jack Zuill, who is a consultant experienced in using technology to monitor and assess natural capital assets. This includes the use of drones and satellite-derived remote sensing data to optimise environmental monitoring and decision-making. We talk through some of his recent projects including peatlands and above-ground carbon quantification, as well as different sensors, data collection, legislation and modern advancements.  

    Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Kerry Hammond, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie 

    Timestamps  

    1:42 – 12:24 Introduction to drones/UAVs, sensors and data 

    12:25 – 19:55 Drones and satellites for monitoring and quantifying natural capital 

    19:55 – 30:28 Farm carbon storage network, carbon credits, peatland and Glencripesdale projects 

    30:29 – 37:07 Trusting data, baselining, digital twins, scale and analysis

    Related FAS Resources

    FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

    Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    UAVs in Agriculture | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Other Related Resources

    Jack Zuill - Environmental Consultant - SAC Consulting | LinkedIn

    BBC Scotland - Landward, 2023, Episode 4

    Dreams of recovery for Scotland’s rainforest given a boost (rspb.org.uk)

    Farm Carbon Storage Network | SRUC

    Video - Decision grade data at Glencripesdale

    The Drone and Model Aircraft Code | UK Civil Aviation Authority (caa.co.uk)

  • Protecting, valuing and restoring natural capital at the landscape scale requires a joined-up effort and collaboration amongst different landowners and groups. In this episode we are joined by Ross MacLeod from the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust to talk about landscape scale and collaborative farming initiatives.  

    We discuss the importance of collaboration, GWCTs ‘Farm Clusters’ approach; what they are and why they have set them up, and their involvement in NatureScot’s Natural Capital Pilot. Natural Capital is central to wildlife management and conservation in Scotland and we discuss the importance of evidence-based best practice, nature-friendly land management and biodiversity net gain.   

    Host Rachel Smillie, producer Iain Boyd, editor Ross Mackenzie, executive producer Kerry Hammond. 

     

    Timestamps  

    The importance of Natural Capital for GWCT: 2:24 – 5:04 

    Farm clusters and landscape scale solutions: 5:04 – 8:45 

    How can a farmer set up a farm cluster?: 10:53 - 11:50 

    Public and private funding and finance: 12:32 - 16:11 

    Natural Capital assessments, tools and actions: 16:20 – 23:15 

    Related FAS Resources

    Boosting Biodiversity to Build Business | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

    Other Related Resources

    Farmer Clusters - For farmers, facilitators and advisors

    Scottish Demonstration Farm - Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (gwct.org.uk)

    The Allerton Project | Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (allertontrust.org.uk)

    Sussex Study - Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (gwct.org.uk)

    Natural Capital Advisory

    Natural Capital Assessment Tool - A Whole Farm Approach | NatureScot

  • The Scottish Government is committed to establishing a new National Park by spring 2026. It has released an appraisal framework and is looking for local areas to submit expressions of interest.  

    The aims of National Parks are to conserve nature and the landscape, while also providing provisions for the enjoyment of the area and promote sustainable development. Restoring natural capital is embedded in National Park policy and the new form of integrated land management may result in changes for communities and rural businesses within the new National Park.  

    On this episode we are speaking to Freda and David Scott-Park from Portnellan, an organic farm within the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park boundary, to get their views and experiences of farming within a National Park. 

    Timestamps  

    The impact of national parks on the rural landscape and farming: 2:55 – 5:21  

    Nature friendly farming, diversification and biodiversity: 5:22 – 13:33  

    Beaver reintroduction: 13:34 – 18:32  

    Alignments of natural parks, communities and farming aims: 18:33 – 25:32  

    Views on a new national park: 26:08 – 28:30  

    Related FAS Resources 

    Re-wilding Beavers | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Farm Woodland resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Thrill of the Hill - A Damming Conclusion? | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

    Other Related Resources 

    Home - Cairngorms National Park Authority

    Here. Now. All of us. - Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park -Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park (lochlomond-trossachs.org)

    Nature Friendly Farming Network - Sustainable Farming (nffn.org.uk)

    New National Parks - appraisal framework - Scottish Government - Citizen Space (consult.gov.scot)

    Next steps for national parks in Scotland - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

  • Understanding the natural capital assets you have on your land is really important. Farm wildlife walks are a great way to map out features, habitats and biodiversity that is present in the agricultural landscape. It can help you baseline your natural capital and look for opportunities for improvement on farm. As part of The Wildlife Trusts 30 Days Wild campaign we go for a walk with Mary-Jane Lawrie on her farm in the Lothian’s and discuss hedges, wetlands and the biodiversity we see, along with the management and tools being used. We then head back to the office and are joined by David Brown to discuss the walk he has recently undertaken on a farm in the Borders and the benefits he has seen.  

    We all need to be concerned about biodiversity loss and agriculture has an important part to play. Farms across Scotland are already doing a lot of great things to manage the habitats they have to the best of their ability and support wildlife. We explore some of the simple and small things that can be done on farm to further benefit nature and the farm business.  

    Host Rachel Smillie, producer Iain Boyd, editor Ross Mackenzie, executive producer Kerry Hammond.   

    Timestamps  

    How Highlands Rewilding started and defining rewilding: 1:35 – 3:39   

    Intro to the farm, 30 Days Wild and farm wildlife walks: 0:45 – 6:35 

    The farm wildlife walk, the biodiversity we see and useful tools: 6:40 – 11:48 

    Benefits to the farm, resources and the value of nature: 11:49 – 20:22 

    Back in the office, David’s walk and wildlife corridors: 21:41 – 25:53  

    Baselining, farm benefits and working with nature: 25:52 – 35:04 

    Wider work and resources: 35:05 – 39:08 

    Related FAS Materials

    Farm Wildlife Walks - Southwest https://www.fas.scot/publication/farm-wildlife-walks-southwest/  

    Integrated Land Management Plans: https://www.fas.scot/integrated-land-management-plans-ilmps/  

    Specialist Advice: https://www.fas.scot/specialist-advice/  

    FAS Biodiversity Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/   

    FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/   

    Other Related Resources 

    The Wildlife Trusts 30 Days Wild: https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/30dayswild  

    AECS: https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/agri-environment-climate-scheme/  

    Seek App:  https://www.inaturalist.org/pages/seek_app  

    Merlin Bird ID: https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/  

    RSPB Farming - https://www.rspb.org.uk/our-work/conservation/conservation-and-sustainability/farming/ 

  • We talk to Dr Jeremy Leggett from Highlands Rewilding, who are aiming to rewild and repopulate the highlands through a business model focusing on enhancing and restoring natural capital. Doing this they want to support Nature Based Solutions, reduce biodiversity loss and cut UK carbon emissions. Jeremy discusses the role they play and the challenges of balancing nature, farming, traditional ways of life, jobs and a profitable business. We talk about what the term ‘Rewilding’ means, why and how they measure natural capital on their estates and the innovative technology and techniques they use. We also discuss the exciting plans they have for their newly purchased Tayvallich estate and how their plans for managing the natural capital include the local community and the potential to provide local green jobs.  

    The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, we explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future.  

    Host Rachel Smillie, producer Iain Boyd, editor Kieron Sim, executive producer Kerry Hammond.   

    Timestamps

    How Highlands Rewilding started and defining rewilding: 1:35 – 3:39 

    Making natural capital a profitable business and monitoring biodiversity: 3:40 – 9:41 

    Community engagement and involvement: 9:42 – 11:41 

    Tayvallich; ecology, community, jobs and opportunities: 11:42 – 17:43 

    Balancing economy, rural life and farming with nature and biodiversity: 17:44 – 22:56  

    Related FAS Resources 

    Natural Capital - Bees, Butterflies and Biodiversity | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Scotland's Rainforests | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Seaweed | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Natural Capital: reasons for measuring the baseline of natural capital in a landscape - YouTube

    FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

    Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Other Related Resources 

    Highlands Rewilding - Rewilding Scotland

    Jeremy Leggett – Climate, energy, tech, and the future of civilisation

    UN Biodiversity Conference (COP 15) (unep.org)

    Decision grade data at Glencripesdale - a case study in thriving natural capital on Vimeo

  • We begin our second series of Natural Capital exploring Bees, Butterflies and Biodiversity with Dr Lorna Cole, an agricultural ecologist whose work addresses the challenge of feeding our growing world population whilst protecting our environment. We discuss beneficial insects, habitats and biodiversity, including the many pollinators found in Scotland. Pollinators play important roles but face multiple pressures and we discuss how agricultural practices influence these insects and the ecosystem services they deliver. We explore what you can do to protect and enhance species and habitat.  

    The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, we explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future.  

    Hosted and produced by Iain Boyd, with Rachel Smillie and Fiona Salter, editor Kieron Sim, executive producer Kerry Hammond.  

    Timestamps  

    The importance and value of biodiversity: 3:30 – 15:43 

    Pollinators in Scotland and their roles on farm: 15:44 – 21:55 

    What land managers can do to boost pollinators and habitats: 21:55 – 35:33 

    Managed bees, beekeeping and native pollinators: 35:33 – 43:16 

    Benefits for other pollinators: 43:16 – 46:00 

    Related FAS Resources 

    Insect Pollinators & Pollination | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Thrill of the Hill - Natural Capital | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    The Great Yellow Bumblebee | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

    Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Other Related Resources 

    Welcome to the UK Pollinator Monitoring Scheme (PoMS) | PoMS (ukpoms.org.uk)

    How farming with nature brings pollinators back to arable farms (soilassociation.org)

    Bumblebee Conservation Trust

    Home page | Butterfly Conservation (butterfly-conservation.org)

    Scottish pollinators | Updates on pollinators and pollinator projects from around Scotland (wordpress.com)

    The soil health scorecard | AHDB

  • In our final episode of the series we are discussing the important financial topics which cover most natural capital projects, including ecosystem markets and green commerce. We discuss potential funding and revenue options for natural capital, and importantly what are the risks and future opportunities for agriculture and landowners in Scotland.  Investing in nature can help to improve our environment, drive a green economy, tackle global issues such as climate change and make the world a better place for both society and biodiversity.    

    Professor Mark Reed is an expert in Rural Entrepreneurship and the Co-Director of the Thriving Natural Capital Challenge Centre at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC). He is a transdisciplinary researcher specialising in environmental governance, ecosystem markets and research impact. He is a visiting professor at several universities, CEO of Fast Track Impact, Research Lead for the IUCN UK Peatland Programme where he sits on the Executive Board of the Peatland Code, and is also Co-Chair of UNEP’s Global Peatland Initiative Research Working Group.   

    The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future.  

    Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Kieron Sim, executive producer Kerry Hammond.  

    Timestamps  

    Putting a financial value on nature : 1:50 - 6:56  

    Requirements and controls for land and carbon markets : 6:57 – 11:13  

    Opportunities and risks for farmers : 11:14 – 22:50  

    Money for nature restoration projects : 26:18 – 38:00  

    Balancing science, business and farmers needs : 38:00 – 44:55 

    Related FAS Resources 

    Advice & Grants | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Funding Opportunities for Sustainable Farming | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)   

    FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

    Environment resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

        

    Other Related Resources 

    Professor Mark Reed, SRUC, UK (profmarkreed.com)

    Thriving natural capital | SRUC

    Scottish Nature Finance Pioneers – Grow, Restore, Prosper | NatureScot

    Scottish Forum on Natural Capital – Bringing together public, private and voluntary sector organisations in order to protect and rebuild Scotland’s natural capital. (naturalcapitalscotland.com)

    Home - UK...

  • This time we are focussing on Arable Natural Capital with John and Louise Seed from Woodend Farming Partnership and Agricultural Consultant Mary-Jane Lawrie, to find out what they are doing on farm and to learn from their combined experiences. Woodend Farming Partnership focusses on arable crops, free-range egg production, renewable energy and conservation, where they take a progressive, evidence-based approach to farming that enhances biodiversity, reduces the farm carbon footprint whilst maintaining or even improving profitability.  

    We discover what can be done to protect and enhance biodiversity on farms to benefit both the environment and the farm business; including making use of unproductive land, funding support that is available and how multiple farms doing a little can make a big difference.   

    The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we will explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future.   

    Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Kieron Sim, executive producer Kerry Hammond.  

    Timestamps 

    Natural capital projects on farm and the wider benefits : 5:07 – 11:50 

    Biodiversity gain, agricultural yield and profitability : 13:35 – 19:06 

    Surveys and baseline data : 19:07 – 24:11 

    How will it look in the future? : 24:12 – 28:34 

    Adaptations to ensure profitability : 28:35 – 30:32

    Wider context, funding and support available : 36:30 – 42:00 

    Related FAS Resources

    Crops and soils | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    CropCast | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Environment resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Advice & Grants | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

    Other Related Resources

    Woodend Farming Partnership - Family farming business with arable crops, free-range egg production, renewable energy and conservation

    Farming with Nature | NatureScot

    Scottish Forum on Natural Capital – Bringing together public, private and voluntary sector organisations in order to protect and rebuild Scotland’s natural capital. (naturalcapitalscotland.com)

    Farming for a Better Climate - Farming for a Better Climate

  • In this water episode of our Natural Capital Series, we discuss seaweed and its wider benefits to the farming community, it’s important ecosystem services and the various uses for seaweed products.  

    We are joined by Rhianna Rees, Seaweed Academy Coordinator at SAMS Enterprise, who is passionate about the growth and expansion of the seaweed industry and its role in a rapidly developing blue economy, and Fiona Salter, a Senior Environmental Consultant at SAC Consulting, who focuses on the improvement of natural capital and ecosystem services in the rural environment.  

    The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we will explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future. 

    Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Ross Mackenzie, executive producer Kerry Hammond. 

    Timestamps 

    What are the different types and uses of seaweed?: 4:35 – 7:55 

    What are the main benefits of seaweed for agriculture?: 10:54 - 12:47 

    The potential economic growth of the sector: 15:15 – 17:06 

    Using seaweed as a livestock feed and methane reduction: 21:40 – 23:12 

    Water quality issues and solutions: 23:51 – 29:18 

    Related FAS Resources 

    FAS Water Management: https://www.fas.scot/environment/water-management/   FAS TV: S2 E6 - Improving Grassland Performance & Turning Seaweed into a Crop: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-gW1Fo4PAI  FAS Casestudy – Seaweed as a fertiliser: https://www.fas.scot/downloads/cropping-case-study-use-of-seaweed-as-a-fertiliser-for-grassland/  FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/  

    Other Related Resources 

    Seaweed Academy - https://seaweedacademy.co.uk/   SAMS Enterprise - https://www.sams-enterprise.com/   Farming and Water Scotland - https://www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/   Crown Estate Scotland Aquaculture - https://www.crownestatescotland.com/scotlands-property/marine/aquaculture  NatureScot Seaweed Harvesting - https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/land-and-sea-management/managing-coasts-and-seas/seaweed-harvesting  
  • In episode three of this Natural Capital Series we are joined by Dr Emily Taylor to explore the very relevant and important topic of peatlands. Peatlands are a key part of the Scottish landscape covering over 20% of the land. Healthy peatlands are valuable carbon stores and provide many ecosystem services and benefits to people and nature. We discuss the importance and value of this natural capital resource, the various work that is ongoing to protect and restore peatland and what land managers can do to look after it. 

    Dr Emily Taylor is a peatland specialist and leads the Crichton Carbon Centre, overseeing all of their projects. Emily has developed, and is delivering, the highly popular Peatland Action Restoration Events throughout Scotland. 

    The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we will explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future. 

    Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Ross Mackenzie, executive producer Kerry Hammond. 

    Timestamps 

    What is peatland? : 2:22 – 8:52 

    What is involved in peatland restoration? : 8:53 – 13:47 

    Peatland Action and The Peatland Code : 13:47 – 18:57 

    Ecosystem services and land use : 18:57 – 29:05 

    Advice to landowners and potential financial benefits : 30:58 – 34:17 

     

    Related FAS Resources 

    Protecting Scotland’s Peatlands - https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/protecting-scotlands-peatlands/   FAS TV S2 E11 - Peatland Restoration in Shetland: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txdnXcOy8Eo  FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/  FAS Environment Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/    

    Other Related Resources 

    Crichton Carbon Centre - https://www.carboncentre.org/   Peatland Action - https://www.nature.scot/climate-change/nature-based-solutions/peatland-action-project  Peatland Code - https://www.iucn-uk-peatlandprogramme.org/peatland-code/introduction-peatland-code  How to assess the condition of peatland -  https://www.nature.scot/doc/peatland-action-how-do-i-assess-condition-my-peatland Scotland’s Forum on Natural Capital - https://naturalcapitalscotland.com/   
  • In episode two of this Natural Capital Series we discuss and raise the awareness about Scotland’s Rainforests.  What are Scotland’s rainforests, why are they special, what are the threats and how do we look after them? Recorded on site at Tanish National Nature Reserve with Helen Bibby Senior Conservation Consultant SAC Consulting and Stan Phillips from NatureScot.

    Helen Bibby is a Senior Conservation Consultant with SAC Consulting based in Oban, Argyll. Her work focuses on management advice to famers, crofters and other land managers to support farming and biodiversity. This is a varied job and ranges from grant scheme advice to best practice information to support different species and habitats as well as raising awareness on the importance of Biodiversity within the farmed landscape.  

    Stan Phillips is an Operations Officer for NatureScot based in Argyll.  His work includes biodiversity management advice to landowners and land managers, particularly those on designated sites, many of which are woodlands.  Stan is involved in a number of projects for Scottish rainforest, the restoration and enhancement of which could neatly help address the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. 

    The Earth's soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we will explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future.

    Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Ross Mackenzie, executive producer Kerry Hammond. 

    Timestamps 

    Scotland’s National priority species : 2:55 – 3:45

    What are Scottish rainforests, do we have rainforests? : 3:50 – 10:00

    What makes our rainforest so special? : 10:08 – 13:25

    Measure to protect and pressures on Scottish rainforest : 18:08 – 28:00

    Farming benefits, looking after and managing rainforests : 28:01 – 35:03

    Related FAS Resources

    Scotland’s National Priority Species:  https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/scotlands-national-priority-species/  

    FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/  

    FAS Environment Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/    

    Other Related Resources

    Alliance for Scotland’s Rainforest: www.savingscotlandsrainforest.org.uk 

    Follow Alliance for Scotland's Rainforest on Twitter: @ASRainforest

    Alliance for Scotland's Rainforest farmer on Mull video: https://savingscotlandsrainforest.org.uk/people/farmer  

    Taynish Nature Reserve: https://www.nature.scot/enjoying-outdoors/scotlands-national-nature-reserves/taynish-national-nature-reserve

     

  • The Earth's soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we will explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future.

    In our premier episode, we are joined by Dr Hannah Rudman who is co-director of the Thriving Natural Capital Challenge Centre at SRUC.  

    Her work focuses on how digital and data innovations can help the natural economy sector address the Grand Challenges of climate change, food safety and security and loss of biodiversity.

    Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Ross Mackenzie, executive producer Kerry Hammond.