Rural Payments and Services

Over £150 million has now been committed to further encourage environmentally friendly farming practices and improve public access.

Following the latest awards under the Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS), £39.5 million of funding has now been awarded to 580 rural businesses this year.

This means that since the scheme opened in 2015, around 2,500 applicants have benefitted from over £150 million.

The scheme aims to protect and enhance Scotland’s natural heritage, improve water quality, manage flood risk, and help agricultural businesses adapt to climate change.

Announcing the award, Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “Encouraging environmentally friendly farming practices that safeguard our natural heritage is vital to ensuring Scotland’s continued lead in tackling climate change.

“I am therefore delighted to confirm a further £39.5 million to 580 successful applicants under the Agri-Environment Climate Scheme to help meet these objectives.

“This latest award will support a range of measures which will help create a greener and more prosperous environment, including managing flood risks and protecting our iconic species and habitats.”

Francesca Osowska, SNH’s Chief Executive, said: “This scheme is essential to support Scotland’s farmers and crofters in their efforts to help wildlife, manage flood risk, and combat climate change.

We’ve seen all kinds of fantastic proposals from applicants: farmers are restoring wetlands, creating species-rich grasslands and hedges, and many other activities.

We look forward to receiving more applications from farmers and crofters across Scotland this coming year and working together to further improve Scotland’s environment.”

Background The scheme is delivered by the Rural Payments and Inspections Division of the Scottish Government and Scottish Natural Heritage.