Rural projects across Scotland that tackle climate change and protect the environment will share £34 million in a new round of funding.
A total of 472 businesses will benefit from the latest Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) awards.
The initiative promotes environmentally friendly land management practices and aims to protect and enhance Scotland’s natural heritage.
Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said: “Facing a global climate emergency, the AECS has proven to be a successful way of supporting farmers, crofters and land managers to promote environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
“Rural Scotland holds one of the key assets we will need to tackle climate change and address biodiversity loss, our land, which is why I am clear that future agri-environment support will continue as we transition to a low carbon future.”
The previous award of £39.5 million came in December 2018 and went to 580 rural businesses.
This latest round of funding brings the total committed under AECS since 2015 to more than £211 million, going to almost 3,000 applicants.
The money is used for projects such as improving water quality, managing flood risks, protecting natural habitats and promoting biodiversity.
Francesca Osowska, Scottish Natural Heritage chief executive, said: “A nature-rich Scotland is key to reducing the effects of climate change so it’s great news that farmers and crofters will have additional funding to continue their important work supporting Scotland’s biodiversity.
“Many farmers are doing wonderful work to improve, create and link important habitats and the vulnerable wildlife they support – like brown hares, corncrake and curlew.
“This extra funding will also ensure that work to reduce the risk of flooding and improve water quality will continue.”
