Nature-based Solutions (NbS) have been defined many times, but in essence are developing solutions to societal problems using natural processes. Many ways of assessing the potential benefits and disbenefits of these NbS have been put forward and, if these assessment frameworks are to be used for best results, then the most appropriate framework(s) should be identified and recommended to users. This project searched for potential assessment frameworks and carried out a two-stage process to identify the most appropriate framework.
NbS are “actions to protect, sustainably manage and restore natural and modified ecosystems in ways that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, to provide both human well-being and biodiversity benefits”. The IUCN Global Standard and its Guidance provide a framework for designing and evaluating Nature-based Solutions (NbS). This standard sets out eight criteria which need to be met during both planning and evaluation of NbS. This overview introduces these criteria to encourage application in Scotland and provides links to further explanation and guidance.
Legumes have a key role to play in sustainable agricultural systems. If implemented and managed appropriately, legumes could help protect pollinators whilst enhancing agricultural yield.
A report investigating how farmers interact on the online platform Twitter, with the aim of helping scientists to better facilitate mutual learning and support good farm practice.
To address constraints to woodland creation in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, the Park Authority launched a small-scale planting grant in 2020 and developed a fellowship in partnership with the Scottish Environment, Food and Agriculture Research Institutes. This summary briefing presents summary findings from the fellowship research, which focused on identifying key constraints to woodland creation uptake and opportunities for enhancing future uptake.
To address constraints to woodland creation in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, the Park Authority launched a small-scale planting grant in 2020 and developed a fellowship in partnership with the Scottish Environment, Food and Agriculture Research Institutes. This report presents summary findings from the fellowship research, which focused on identifying key constraints to woodland creation uptake and opportunities for enhancing future uptake.
The Centres of Expertise (CoE) work at the interface between policy and research, and provide responsive work in areas of high policy importance: climate change, animal disease outbreaks, plant health, water, knowledge exchange and impact .
This summary report highlights preliminary research exploring food and drink innovation and clustering in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands and reviews potential opportunities for engagement with partners in the Arctic region. It addresses the Scottish Government’s Arctic Policy Framework, which seeks to reinforce and promote Scotland’s connections with northern countries.
This preliminary research explored food and drink innovation and clustering in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands and reviewed potential opportunities for engagement with partners in the Arctic region. It addresses the Scottish Government’s Arctic Policy Framework, which seeks to reinforce and promote Scotland’s connections with northern countries.