Support crofters to play a role in peatland restoration and woodland creation

Our verdict

Background

Peatland restoration is part of the Scottish Government’s plans to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2045. Peat soils sequester a significant amount of carbon dioxide.

Status

This promise is in progress. In March 2021, before the election, the Scottish Government announced a £22m peatland restoration programme. Farmers and landowners were invited to apply for money to fund peatland restoration projects. While there was no indication of targeted support for crofters, the application process was open to all land owners or managers.

In August 2021, the Scottish Government convened a new board called the Agriculture Reform Implementation Oversight Board (ARIOB) to oversee efforts towards greater sustainability in farming and crofting, including peatland restoration.

“Peatland restoration fund tackles global climate crisis” (Scottish Government, 20th March 2021)

“Delivering a new future for rural Scotland” (Scottish Government, 25th August 2021)