Cairngorms Peatland Restoration project wins Nature of Scotland Innovation Award

"The project has carried out restoration work at three sites, covering 367 hectares, using techniques new to Scotland that will restore peatland ecosystems and enhance carbon stores.

The Cairngorms Peatland Restoration project has won the Nature of Scotland 2015 Innovation Award, sponsored by the James Hutton Institute, for its efforts in restoring peatlands that provide homes to a variety of plants and animals, reduce flooding, provide clean drinking water and are a valuable asset to sporting managers.

The award was presented by Professor Colin Campbell, acting Chief Executive of the James Hutton Institute, at a ceremony held at the Edinburgh Sheraton Grand Hotel with 30 finalists and more than 200 guests in attendance.

The Cairngorms Peatland Restoration project tackles degradation of blanket bog at the Cairngorms National Park, which amounts to one-fifth of the total park area. Supported by Scottish Natural Heritage’s Peatland Action, restoration work was carried out at three sites, covering 367 hectares, using techniques new to Scotland that will restore peatland ecosystems and enhance carbon stores.

The Winter Woodlands Greenability Programme by The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) Scotland earned a highly commended mention, in recognition of their work in providing a chance for people with a broad range of disabilities to get closer to nature.

The Innovation Award at the Nature of Scotland Awards is given to the most innovative project, initiative, practice, or technique that has aided nature conservation. Entries stand out by finding creative solutions in their conservation work, either by developing a pioneering project or by finding a new angle to tackle an old issue.

The Nature of Scotland Awards recognise and celebrate excellence, innovation and outstanding achievement in nature conservation, and bring together industry professionals, public sector organisations, community groups, politicians, charities and conservationists who share a common interest in preserving Scotland’s precious natural heritage. Winners of the eight categories at the 2015 gala were:

• Marine Conservation Award: KIMO UK, Fishing for Litter Scotland
• Sustainable Development: Peatland Restoration at Blacklaw and Whitelee windfarm
• Community Initiative: Castle Loch Lochmaben Community Trust
• Politician of the Year: Councillor Martha Wardrop and Paul Wheelhouse MSP
• Innovation: Cairngorms Peatland Restoration
• Youth and Education: Belhaven Hill High School
• Nature Tourism: Isle of May NNR Visitor Centre
• RSPB Species Champion: Delivering advice to benefit the marsh fritillary in Scotland.

For more information about the Nature of Scotland Awards, visit the RSPB Scotland website.