Principles of responsible peat extraction for the Scotch Whisky Industry

This guidance seeks to safeguard the Scotch Whisky industry’s peat supply chain and credibility by outlining clear criteria for responsible peat extraction and harvesting. It expands on the Scotch Whisky Association’s Commitment to Responsible Peat Use, notably its first pillar of Responsible Extraction1, which should be read in conjunction with this guidance. It provides the industry with clear, actionable guiding principles and 
serves as a toolkit for responsible approaches to existing and future peat harvesting. The guiding principles of responsible extraction are underpinned by evidence and advice provided by key organisations, including NatureScot and SEPA, who have worked to deliver peatland management and restoration at scale across Scotland as part of broader efforts towards mitigating climate change and restoring biodiversity.  

Authors: Dr. Rosie Everett, Imogen Cadwaladr-Rimmer, Jack Zuill

SRUC