News

Rural Affairs Secretary reaffirms importance of protecting peatlands in Scotland

Peatlands cover around 2 million hectares, or one quarter, of Scotland and are of national and global significance. In good condition, they provide multiple benefits: storing carbon, supporting nature, and reducing flood risk.

The latest Scottish Government blog, discussing Mairi Gougeon, Rural Affairs Secretary, visit to Brussels for EU Green Week, highlights the importance of protecting peatlands and wetlands in Scotland. Ms Gougeon said:

"The new EU CAP recognises the importance of peatlands and wetlands as stores of soil carbon. Member States must now ensure appropriate protection of wetlands and peatlands from 2023, through the Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition standards 2 (GAECs 2)."

“This outcome is closely aligned to and supportive of our own vision, and there is considerable scope and rationale for Scotland to adopt a similar approach as part of our future support system. Caring for our peatlands that are in good condition, as well as restoring those that have been damaged, are both important elements of our response to the linked climate and nature crises."

“We have already committed £250 million to restoring 250,000 hectares of degraded peatlands by 2030 - supporting good, green jobs in the rural economy, and playing a part in Scotland’s Just Transition to net zero by 2045.

“That’s why today I have agreed, in principle, that we will take forward the new Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition (GAECs 2) covering the protection of wetlands and peatland, weaving the care of these important habitats right through our future rural support. More information on this outcome, as well as new conditions from 2025 will be published this summer in the updated Agricultural Reform Route Map for farmers, crofters and land managers."

Could your business support peatland restoration projects?

New SDP member, NatureScot is offering a free 'Talking Tenders' webinar on 27 June, to discuss upcoming opportunities as part of its peatland restoration projects. Don't miss an opportunity to learn more about NatureScot's procurement models and key policy requirements. Suppliers will also have the chance to ask any burning questions during the Q&A session.