Flow Country ‘seen in new light’ as group shortlisted at RSPB nature awards
The Thurso-based leader of a partnership that brought global recognition to the Flow Country has said such areas are being seen in a new light due to climate change.
Professor Stuart Gibb, chairman of the Flow Country Partnership and director of the Environmental Research Institute in Thurso, said the group was delighted to have been shortlisted for a prestigious nature award.
The partnership, which brings together a community of crofters, farmers, landowners and managers, local businesses, residents, ecologists and local government officials, led the bid for the area to receive World Heritage Site status from Unesco.
The inscription took place earlier this year – and now the Flow Country Partnership is a finalist in the Nature and Climate category at RSPB Scotland’s Nature of Scotland Awards.
Professor Gibb said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for such a prestigious award, which highlights the importance of local action in saving Scotland’s species and habitats, while delivering social and economic benefits for our region and its people.
“Historically, peatlands were amongst the most ignored and abused ecosystems. Today, when viewed through the lenses of climate change, natural capital, sustainability and biodiversity conservation, they are being re-appraised as among our most important natural assets.”
Regarded as one of the best examples of blanket bog landscape in the world, the Flow Country stores around 400 million tonnes of carbon – more than all the UK’s forests and woodlands combined. Despite this, it still contains large areas degraded by drainage, afforestation and erosion.
The Flow Country Partnership is working to develop a revitalised, sustainably and collaboratively managed landscape, re-evaluating and restoring peatlands and safeguarding against threats including wildfire.
Its work is helping to address the climate crisis, protect the biodiversity of important habitats and wildlife, and create opportunities in the local community.
The Flow Country Partnership was announced as a finalist at the Nature of Scotland Awards Shortlist Reception held at the Scottish Parliament, hosted by MSP Graham Simpson and sponsored by Suntory Global Spirits.
The winners of all 10 categories will be revealed at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) on Thursday, November 28, where the 53 finalists will gather. RSPB Scotland has been running the awards, headline sponsored by NatureScot, for over a decade.
This year’s ceremony will be hosted by BBC Landward presenters and nature enthusiasts Dougie Vipond and Arlene Stuart.
The Nature of Scotland Awards recognise individuals and organisations making a difference across local communities, schools and businesses to support Scotland’s wildlife and natural environment.
Anne McCall, director of RSPB Scotland, said: “The Nature of Scotland Awards shine a light on people and projects going that extra mile to make a difference for nature in their local communities. Every year it is a privilege to hear the inspiring stories of people coming together to protect species and improve spaces for nature - we can’t tackle the nature and climate crisis alone.”
Professor Colin Galbraith, chairman of NatureScot, said: “Right across Scotland we see people coming together and taking action to protect and restore nature. The efforts of all nominees are reason for great pride.
“The shortlisted projects for this year’s awards celebrate perfectly what can be achieved through inspiring collaborations that work with nature, build our resilience, and help us tackle the climate-nature crisis.”
