Shows
Make Space For NatureZero Waste Scotland: how small changes create big wins for people and wildlifeOur everyday plastic and waste choices ripple through Scotland's entire ecosystem, affecting our landscapes and wildlife.Andrew Pankhurst from Zero Waste Scotland explains how rethinking waste can transform our environment and economy. Discover Scotland's circular economy – an innovative approach where products stay in high-value use for generations, not moments.Learn from the carrier bag charge success story that achieved an 80% reduction in use and fewer bags on beaches through simple policy changes.While Plastic Free July drives environmental action, Zero Waste Scotland focuses on reducing all single-use items. Surprisingly, food waste and textiles ca...2025-07-1845 minMake Space For NatureScotland's Sea Eagles: Balancing Conservation and FarmingFifty years since their reintroduction, Scotland now hosts around 200 breeding pairs of white-tailed eagles (also known as sea eagles), representing both a remarkable conservation success and a challenge for some farmers and crofters. This podcast explores the relationship between these magnificent birds and farming communities through conversations with NatureScot's Andrew Kent and Appin-based sheep farmer David Colthart.We hear how eagle predation impacts sheep flocks and how the recently expanded Sea Eagle Management Scheme supports farmers with deterrence and adaptation strategies. The discussion reveals emerging collaborative approaches, including enhanced shepherding and research to track predation patterns.2025-06-2026 min
The Ferret headlinesBeaver bid blocked after Kate Forbes stepped inA bid to release beavers in the Highlands was delayed after intensive lobbying by farmers and landowners prompted an intervention by the local MSP and deputy first minister, Kate Forbes, The Ferret can reveal.
Emails released under freedom of information law disclose why the wildlife agency, NatureScot, postponed a long-awaited plan to move beavers into Loch Beinn A' Mheadhoin in Glen Affric.
Forbes, the National Farmers Union in Scotland (NFUS) and local landowners privately piled pressure on the agency to derail a beaver licence application by the government's Forestry and Land Scotland.
The tree-felling, dam-building, semi-aquatic mammals...2025-05-1810 minMake Space For NatureBeyond Hospital Walls: Green Spaces, Healing PlacesGreen Health Week spotlights NHS Ayrshire and Arran's pioneering approach to transforming hospital grounds into therapeutic spaces for patients, staff, and the wider community.Public Health Programme Lead Elaine Caldow shares the journey from a small demonstration project to a comprehensive approach that treats nature as medicine. Assistant Director of Estates and Support Services Helen Gemmell reveals how initial management concerns about risk have evolved into widespread staff enthusiasm for these restorative environments.We visit the Kyle Chemotherapy Unit with Deputy Charge Nurse Wendy Ruiz de Pascal to see how the garden spaces are supporting...2025-05-0833 minMake Space For NatureScience on the Solway - how geese are helping us better understand avian fluJoin us as we travel to the Solway Firth in Dumfries and Galloway to meet staff from NatureScot's wildlife management team - Jenny Park, Rae McKenzie and Alastair MacGugan.The team talk us through their vital research into the highly pathogenic avian influenza – or avian flu as it's more commonly known – and the impact it's having on the thousands of barnacle geese that migrate to the Solway Firth each winter from their Arctic breeding grounds.In this episode, you'll learn about the collaborative research efforts underway and how cutting-edge science is helping us better understand bird...2025-05-0224 minMake Space For NatureBogging Brilliant: The Power of Peatland Restoration2025-04-2223 min
The Ferret headlinesStudy to gauge impacts of gamebirds on Scotland's native species to go aheadA study to determine the impacts of pheasants and red-legged partridges on Scotland's environment and native species is set to commence this year.
The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) aims to examine the effects caused by releasing millions of non-native gamebirds each year in rural Scotland to be shot for sport.
A pilot assessment is due to take place this spring in the Cairngorms National Park.
NatureScot recommended research into the impacts of gamebirds in 2023, according to internal communications we obtained via freedom of information.
RSPB Scotland has previously urged the wildlife agency to take...2025-03-1303 min
Scotland's Farm Advisory Service PodcastNatural Capital - Biodiversity Funding on FarmsWe take a deep dive on the various sources of biodiversity funding opportunities that are available to farmers in 2025 and beyond. Covering Agri-Environmental Climate Schemes, Nature Restoration Funds, and biodiversity audits. In this episode we are joined by agricultural consultant Alex Pirie, to share updates on environmental funding opportunities for farmers in 2025 - including going over what the Agri-Environmental Climate Scheme (AECS) is, Nature Restoration Fund opportunities and biodiversity audits as part of the Whole Farm Plan. We discuss changes and example projects farmers are undertaking, and links with future tiers of agricultural support. Host Harr...2025-02-2541 min
Natural CapitalBiodiversity Funding on FarmsWe take a deep dive on the various sources of biodiversity funding opportunities that are available to farmers in 2025 and beyond. Covering Agri-Environmental Climate Schemes, Nature Restoration Funds, and biodiversity audits. In this episode we are joined by agricultural consultant Alex Pirie, to share updates on environmental funding opportunities for farmers in 2025 - including going over what the Agri-Environmental Climate Scheme (AECS) is, Nature Restoration Fund opportunities and biodiversity audits as part of the Whole Farm Plan. We discuss changes and example projects farmers are undertaking, and links with future tiers of agricultural support. Host Harr...2025-02-2541 minMake Space For NatureNamed by nature: exploring the Gaelic roots of Scotland's landscapes and wildlife, with Roddy MacleanJoin us as we chat with Roddy Maclean, a celebrated Gaelic journalist and educator. Together, we uncover the profound ties between the Gaelic language and Scotland's natural world.Roddy shares his unique path from lowland Scotland to Tasmania and back again, where his roots in Applecross ignited a lifelong passion for indigenous languages and their connection to the land and the sea.He demonstrates how Gaelic helps us understand and protect Scotland's nature, and explains why keeping Gaelic alive matters for both our culture and our understanding of Scotland's landscapes today....2025-02-2524 min
R2Kast - People in Food and Farming/All InR2Kast 300 - Megan Rowland on Deer Management, Sustainability, and Crofting🎉 Episode 300! A huge thank you to everyone who has supported the R2Kast journey over the past four years—your engagement has made this possible! Here’s to the next 300! 🎧Today, we welcome Megan Rowland, a passionate advocate for sustainable land management, deer management, and crofting in Scotland. Growing up on a croft in Orkney, Megan’s journey took her from vegetarianism to a deep appreciation for responsible meat production. She shares how hands-on experience changed her perspective on food sustainability and land use. 🌱We delve into her career in deer management, where she works with Nat...2025-02-141h 04Make Space For NatureOur shared outdoors: Ramblers Scotland on 20 years of access rights and responsibilitiesJoin us as we mark two decades of Scotland's pioneering access rights and responsibilities, with Brendan Paddy, Director of Ramblers Scotland.Brendan explains the basics of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and shares how these rights have transformed our connection with nature, boosting personal wellbeing and local economies alike. We highlight the unique approach Scotland has taken and discuss the vital role of public education in safeguarding these freedoms for future generations.We delve into the crucial challenge of making Scotland's outdoors truly accessible to all. Hear about innovative projects breaking down barriers for global...2025-02-1137 minMake Space For NatureBlood-sucking marvels: Scotland's mission to save the misunderstood medicinal leechJoin Dr Helen Taylor, Conservation Programme Manager from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, and Sally Morris, Conservation Officer from Buglife Scotland, as they reveal the fascinating world of medicinal leech conservation. Learn about their groundbreaking success in breeding these remarkable and often misunderstood creatures, and why protecting Scotland's invertebrates is crucial for our ecosystem.This episode explores 'Species on the Edge', an innovative partnership programme of NatureScot and seven nature conservation charities, all dedicated to safeguarding 37 threatened species along Scotland's coast and islands. As we navigate the historical roles of leeches, from medicine to...2024-11-2834 min
Dogs with JobsUpdate: Reid the biosecurity dog in the Scottish islands, six months onWe first heard about the work of Reid the biosecurity dog five months back. Conservationist and handler Rachel Cripps talks to presenter Kate Fairweather about Reid's work, visiting Scotland's islands during the course of the year, in all weathers, searching for evidence of rat incursions. Rachel explains the plans for winter, when weather stops all island visits, and how she keeps Reid ticking over and his skills developing. What is biosecurity? Biosecurity is the practice of protecting places from the threats to wildlife posed by the introduction of new diseases or typ...2024-11-2220 min
Scotland's Farm Advisory Service PodcastThrill of the Hill - What's Good for the Goose...Thrill of the Hill returns for season 5, with an exciting line-up on new and returning guest speakers and specialists in their fields and on their hills.Love them or hate them, geese are a recurring feature on farms across Scotland. Views differ on the benefits of having them, some see them as a pest species, others as a necessary component of a larger biodiversity network. In this episode we sit down with Rae Mackenzie for a broad discussion on geese and goose management in Scotland. We cover their ecology and nature value, look at the international efforts...2024-11-2225 min
Thrill Of The HillWhat's Good For The Goose...Thrill of the Hill returns for season 5, with an exciting line-up on new and returning guest speakers and specialists in their fields and on their hills.Love them or hate them, geese are a recurring feature on farms across Scotland. Views differ on the benefits of having them, some see them as a pest species, others as a necessary component of a larger biodiversity network. In this episode we sit down with Rae Mackenzie for a broad discussion on geese and goose management in Scotland. We cover their ecology and nature value, look at the international efforts...2024-11-2225 minMake Space For NatureNature's warriors: stepping up to tackle Scotland's invasive speciesCurious about how volunteers are making a massive difference in the fight against invasive species in Scotland? In the second episode of our two-part series, we speak with Jane Hamilton, Volunteer and Communications Officer for the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative. She shares insights into how a powerful collaboration of landowners, organisations, and community members is tackling invasive non-native species like mink, giant hogweed, and Japanese knotweed.We also hear from some of the dedicated and inspiring volunteers - Peter Howell, Calum McRoberts, Joe Martin, and Mike Baillie - who are on the front line of invasive species...2024-11-1433 minMake Space For NatureHelping our native wildlife thrive with the Scottish Invasive Species InitiativeHear about the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative (SISI) from Project Manager Callum Sinclair of NatureScot. Learn how non-native invasive species like Japanese knotweed and American mink are not just persistent nuisances but significant threats to Scotland's ecosystems and economy. Callum delves into the challenges these species cause and explains the crucial ways we can all prevent and manage their spread.He explains the effective and varied control strategies, from chemical treatments and manual removal, to community-driven efforts. We discuss the impact of these species on native wildlife such as ground-nesting birds, water voles and plants. Callum also...2024-10-3127 minMake Space For NatureFrom machair to meadows: exploring the vital role of grasslands with PlantlifeDiscover the importance of Scotland's grasslands with our guest Jo Riggle, a Grassland Advocacy Officer from Plantlife. She highlights the fascinating range of grasslands and explains how these ecosystems are paramount for biodiversity, climate resilience, agriculture, and our mental and physical well-being. You'll also gain an insight into the unique machair habitat exclusive to parts of Scotland and Ireland, and understand the pressing need to preserve this natural wonder.With practical tips ranging from participating in No Mow May to creating wildlife-friendly gardens, you'll find plenty of ways to support local biodiversity. Tune in, get...2024-10-0221 min
Scotland's Farm Advisory Service PodcastNatural Capital - NatureScot Biodiversity AuditsIn this episode we speak to Celine Delabre from NatureScot to inform listeners on the upcoming requirement to complete biodiversity audits as part of the Whole Farm Plan and how NatureScot’s farm biodiversity app can help to deliver these in the future. We discuss the important details that farmers requiring the audit need to know to help them complete it and find out more about the NatureScot app. From 2025 a Whole Farm Plan will be a mandatory condition for accessing future funding. This will involve all farmers and crofters undertaking a number of audits and plans rel...2024-09-2529 minNatural CapitalNatureScot Biodiversity AuditsIn this episode we speak to Celine Delabre from NatureScot to inform listeners on the upcoming requirement to complete biodiversity audits as part of the Whole Farm Plan and how NatureScot’s farm biodiversity app can help to deliver these in the future. We discuss the important details that farmers requiring the audit need to know to help them complete it and find out more about the NatureScot app. From 2025 a Whole Farm Plan will be a mandatory condition for accessing future funding. This will involve all farmers and crofters undertaking a number of audits and plans rel...2024-09-2529 minMake Space For NatureLife at Loch Leven: exploring work and wildlife on the nature reserveIn this episode we head to Loch Leven National Nature Reserve to meet with Reserve Manager Jeremy Squire and Reserve Officer Sally Reay to learn about the area's vibrant ecosystem and the huge variety of wildlife that thrives in this habitat.Discover the seasonal spectacles that make Loch Leven a critical sanctuary for numerous species. With each season offering its own unique wonders, you'll learn what to look for and when to visit for an unforgettable wildlife experience, from courtship displays by great crested grebes and the dramatic arrival of pink-footed geese, to tornado-like swarms of non-biting...2024-08-1524 min
Counting the EarthPuffin patrol on the Isle of May: 52,000Sitting at the mouth of the Firth of Forth in Scotland, the Isle of May is a sanctuary for nesting seabirds and the destination for this episode.
Join Alice and Sue as they journey to the island and meet UKCEH Field Manager Mark Newell and his dedicated team. Discover the critical work they do to monitor seabird colonies, including the iconic puffin, providing valuable insights into the health of our marine ecosystems.
Alice and Sue also chat with Assistant Reserve Manager Thomas Skinner to uncover the rich history of this National Nature Reserve, meticulously managed by...2024-07-2340 minMake Space For NatureTransforming lives and landscapes through nature volunteeringCurious about how volunteering can change lives and communities? This episode reveals the incredible work of Volunteering Matters, as we celebrate 40 years of Volunteers' Week. Robert Henderson joins us to spotlight the Volunteering Matters Action Earthproject, which has empowered over 100,000 volunteers through more than 3,100 environmental initiatives across Scotland. From the Shettleston Community Growing Project in Glasgow to Bridgend Farmhouse in Edinburgh, discover how volunteer efforts have transformed these into vibrant community hubs.Hear about innovative initiatives, such as the Cassiltoun Housing Association's 'feel good verandas', and learn why it's vital to step outside...2024-07-1729 minMake Space For NaturePlants with Purpose: discovering green solutions for urban challengesJoin us as we chat to Caitlyn Johnstone, a Nature Based Solutions Scientist from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE), to explore how plants and ecosystems can transform our cities.Discover how integrating nature-based solutions can make monumental differences in tackling urban issues like flooding and heat. We hear about RBGE's Plants with Purpose research programme investigating the functional traits of plants such as temperature regulation and biodiversity restoration. Caitlyn’s stories and insights bring to life the adaptability of green infrastructure compared to traditional grey infrastructure. Her passion is contagious as she demonstrates how sma...2024-06-0536 min
Dogs with JobsReid, the biosecurity detection dog, who patrols the Scottish islandsHear about the vital contribution to seabird conservation made by Reid, an English springer spaniel who works as a rodent detection dog in the Scottish islands. Conservationist and handler Rachel Cripps talks to presenter Kate Fairweather about Reid's work, visiting Scotland's islands during the course of the year, in all weathers, searching for evidence of rat incursions. Biosecurity is the practice of protecting places from the threats to wildlife posed by the introduction of new diseases or types of plants or animals that do not naturally occur there. The work of Biosecurity for S...2024-05-0123 minThrill Of The HillMade it by a HareTHRILL OF THE HILL | An iconic Scottish species and of high conservation interest, the mountain hare has a lot going for it. Years of hard work to create the managed uplands we know have also contributed to the betterment of the species and a combination of predator control and careful heather management means that it has found a home in our hill expanses. In this episode of the podcast we are joined by Robert Raynor from NatureScot and Scott Newey from the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust for a discussion on the species, its place in the uplands, conservation...2024-03-3134 min
Scotland's Farm Advisory Service PodcastThrill of the Hill - Made it by a HareTHRILL OF THE HILL | An iconic Scottish species and of high conservation interest, the mountain hare has a lot going for it. Years of hard work to create the managed uplands we know have also contributed to the betterment of the species and a combination of predator control and careful heather management means that it has found a home in our hill expanses. In this episode of the podcast we are joined by Robert Raynor from NatureScot and Scott Newey from the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust for a discussion on the species, its place in the uplands, conservation...2024-03-3134 minMake Space For NatureSpring Clean Scotland: working together to Keep Scotland BeautifulIn this episode we chat to Heather McLaughlin from Keep Scotland Beautiful, about Spring Clean Scotland, the campaign which brings together people from across Scotland to tackle the litter emergency. We hear how this initiative rallies communities, schools, business and individuals to clean up and look after their local areas. She shares invaluable tips for taking part in, or organising, impactful clean-up events, the critical importance of data collection in driving policy change, and the need for a cultural shift to sustain environmental action all year round. Then join us on the banks of the R...2024-03-2639 minMake Space For NatureScotland’s outdoor classroom: enriching learning by heading outsideIn this episode we chat to Professor Greg Mannion from Stirling University and Dr Claire Ramjan, Lecturer in Initial Teacher Education at University of Glasgow, about the importance of outdoor learning.Recently revealed in a report commissioned by NatureScot and other partners - provision of outdoor learning in Scotland’s schools and nurseries has increased for some, yet decreased for others – but why is this?We discuss the potential reasons why, the recommendations made in the report to improve provision, as well as ways we can all encourage children in Scotland to l...2024-03-1429 minMake Space For NatureFarming with nature: seven ways to boost biodiversity on farmsIn this episode we chat with Rob Drummond, NatureScot's Farming with Nature Project Officer, who is also a farmer, and Robert Dale, who manages Lochhouses Farm in East Lothian. We discuss the importance of increasing biodiversity, nature habitats, and species on farms and crofts.Rob also takes us through seven straightforward ways to increase nature on farms and crofts, and Robert shares the tangible benefits he's witnessed first-hand from ‘farming with nature’ for 30 years.More InformationBiodiversity Audit for crofters and farmersFarming with Nature - supporting sustainable food production, climate and...2024-02-0819 minMake Space For NatureNature's reset: using social media to get outdoors more, with digital creator Chris LawlorIn this episode we chat with digital creator Chris Lawlor, who joins us to reveal the inspiration behind his social media channels and his dedication to sharing fascinating content from around Scotland. Chris explains how he's built an online community who share in the wonder of nature and the outdoors, and tells us how they contribute to his never-ending quest to discover hidden Scottish treasures. We explore a range of subjects, from mental well-being and the joys of rainy days, to the challenges of dealing with negative online comments, and how to improve video content...2024-01-1519 min