Natural Capital

In this episode, we sit down with Angus Buchanan-Smith, Co-Founder and Director of The Free Company, an organic farm and restaurant guided by regenerative methods, at the foot of the Pentland Hills. We explore the history of the business, the transition to organic farming and the various complimentary enterprises they operate, from their onsite restaurant, to veg boxes, pigs and engaging with their local community.  With a deep respect for the land and experimenting with what works for them to ensure a resilient future, they share their ethos, the practices they use and how they are producing food that feeds both their local community and their on-site restaurant. We explore how they create meaningful links between food and place, and the challenges and benefits of transitioning to organic.    Whether you're a grower, eater, or someone curious about the future of food, this episode offers an honest, grounded look at how farming with nature can nourish people, planet, and community  Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producers Kerry Hammond & Kirstyn Blackwood Timestamps: 0:56 – 15:29 Intro to the Free Company, transitioning to organic farming and finding out what worked for them. 15:30 – 27:06 Getting the most out of the land, a regenerative approach and benefits to biodiversity, soil and carbon.  27:07 –40:24 Local food production, customer experiences and their various enterprises.  40:25 – end. Challenges, recommendations for others and future plans.  Related FAS resources:   Natural Capital: https://www.fas.scot/sounds/natural-capital/  Organics: https://www.fas.scot/organics/    Other Related Resources: The Free Company: https://www.the-free-company.com/  Pasture for Life: https://www.pastureforlife.org/   

In this episode, we catch up with Amelia Heath (Co-Director, Forth Rivers Trust), Clara Schade-Poulsen (Leven LENs Project Officer), and Tom Brown (Senior Programme Manager, LENs Scotland) to explore how the Leven LENs is taking shape following its launch.  We discuss what LENs really means on the ground: how farmers and businesses are partnering to fund environmental improvements, what actions are being supported, and what’s next for this innovative approach in Scotland and beyond. This episode offers practical insight into how collaborative, place-based solutions are helping unlock environmental outcomes at scale to the mutual benefit of those living and operating in a landscape.  Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producers Kerry Hammond & Kirstyn Blackwood Timestamps: 0:50 – 4:56 Intro to speakers, LENs and recent developments 4:56 – 19:44 Leven LENs , who is involved, motives and drivers  19:44 –  29:25 How to get involved and farmer perspective  29:25 – 40:26 Consensus and feedback so far 40:26 – end: LENs elsewhere, sharing benefits and more info  Related FAS resources:   Natural Capital: https://www.fas.scot/sounds/natural-capital/  Landscape scale conservation: https://www.fas.scot/article/landscape-scale-conservation/  Specialist advice: https://www.fas.scot/specialist-advice/    Other Related Resources: Landscape Enterprise Networks LENs: https://landscapeenterprisenetworks.com/  LENs Impact Report: https://landscapeenterprisenetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/LENs_impact_report_2024.pdf  Leven Catchment Collective: https://catchmentcollective.scot/  Leven LENs funding announcement: https://www.3keel.com/news-lens-leven-funding-july-2025/  FIRNS: https://www.nature.scot/funding-and-projects/firns-facility-investment-ready-nature-scotland  

In this episode, we dive into how Natural Capital is reshaping land use, farming, and business decisions with our guest, Dr Kerry Waylen. She shares her insights and working examples, to explore how land managers, farmers, and policymakers measure nature’s value, access carbon markets, and plan for long-term sustainability.We discuss topics including a just transition, the risks of greenwashing, the need for fair systems, and how supply chains—from food production to whisky—are adapting. Practical, grounded, and future-focused, this episode highlights the real opportunities and challenges in putting nature at the heart of decision-making.  Kerry Waylen is a senior social researcher in the Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences (SEGS) department at the James Hutton Institute, and Deputy Director of the International Land Use Study Centre (ILUSC).  She builds understanding of how to achieve more 'joined up' approaches to natural resource management and studies when and how different types of knowledge – including ideas of ‘natural capital’ get used in decision-making - and how to put abstract ideas for nature management into practice. Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond.Timestamps: 0:59 – 5:52 Intro to speaker and topic background 5:53 – 18:59 Galvanising change via natural capital project 19:00 –  24:53 Ecosystem services, measuring natural capital, farming practices and easy wins 24:54 – 36:34 Paying for carbon, natural capital markets, opportunities and risks 36:35 – 44:50 Just Transition in land use and future of natural capital  Related FAS resources:   Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceStock Talk - The 5-Mile Pig! | FASWhat is the Woodland Carbon Code? | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceUnderstanding Natural Capital Markets | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceOther Related Resources: Ecosystem services - nature’s benefits | NatureScotGalvanising Change via Natural Capital - James Hutton InstituteNatural Capital Protocol – Capitals CoalitionNatural Capital Market Framework - gov.scot Ecosystem Restoration Code: engagement paper - gov.scot 

Measuring and accounting for biodiversity across farmlands is becoming increasingly important. Environmental DNA (eDNA) involves collecting genetic material from environmental samples like water and soil to detect what species are present. It is a tool that is growing in popularity, that can give insights into the range and distribution of species found across a landscape, assess ecosystem health, and track biodiversity changes over time.  We discuss the role this technology can have in biodiversity baselining with Kevin Fennelly and George Muscatt  from NatureMetrics. NatureMetrics is a global nature intelligence technology company who pioneer the use of innovative methods for biodiversity monitoring. We assess how eDNA works and the role this technology could have across diverse landscapes, including its benefits and limitations, and how it can help understand and manage biodiversity. Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producer Kirstyn Blackwood Timestamps: 1:11 – 7:55 intros to speakers and what is eDNA 7:56 – 25:38 what can it discover and how does it work 21:37 – 36:18 what is driving demand and nature based risks 36:19 – 47:46 benefits for farms, companies and food production Related FAS resources:   Biodiversity On Your Farm | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceHabitat And Landscape Management | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceFAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceOther Related Resources: eDNA Biodiversity Monitoring Case StudieseDNA & Biodiversity Monitoring for Regenerative AgricultureKevin Fennelly - kevin.fennelly@naturemetrics.co.uk  

Linear features like hedgerows, ditches and drystone dykes are symbolic of our countryside, providing boundaries and unique habitats. From their history as a form of ancient enclosure, to their importance for nature, we go on a journey with John Wright to discuss these fascinating ecosystems, their natural and cultural significance and what they can tell us about our landscape.  John Wright is a naturalist, fungi expert, forager and author who has written many books covering Britain's countryside, its history and value to us past and present. John shares his knowledge on the history of the British countryside, why we should value and look after our linear habitats and the abundance of biodiversity they support.  Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producer Kirstyn Blackwood Timestamps: 1:07 – 8:27 Intro to John and the early history of linear features 8:27 – 19:22 Hedgerows decline, focus on biodiversity and landscape pressures 19:23 – 33:39 Species in hedgerows and importance of different habitats 33:40 – 39:07 The biodiversity on stonewall dykes 39:07 – End Management and advice to support biodiveristy Related FAS resources:   Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceFAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceProtecting Scotland's Peatlands Woodland, and Hedgerows | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceTechnical Note (TN738): Hedges – Carbon, Conservation & Compliance Other Related Resources: A Natural History of the Hedgerow - Profile BooksJohn Wright - Profile BooksDr Rob Walton Life in a Hedge (researchgate.net)

We 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 Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producer Kirstyn Blackwood Timestamps: 2:39 – 16:52 AECS, what support is available and changes to previous years.  16:53 – 27:01 NRF, what it supports and updates for the year ahead. 27:02 – 33:11 Whole Farm Plan, biodiversity audits and how this links with funding.  34:51 – 40:01 Collaboration and landscape approaches, future opportunities and next steps.   AECS Deadlines Agri-Environment Management: Applications are open from February 3, 2025, to June 12, 2025.  Organic Conversion and Maintenance (Standalone Applications): The application window is from February 3, 2025, to July 31, 2025.  Pre-Application Consultations: Deer Management: If you're considering applying for deer management support, you must contact a NatureScot Wildlife Management Officer before applying. The deadline for requesting pre-application advice is April 30, 2025.  Peatland Management: Applicants are strongly advised to consult with NatureScot at least one month before the application deadline to discuss proposals.  Related FAS Material Specialist Advice | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceThrill of the Hill | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceOther Related Resources:Scottish Government Nature Restoration Fund (NRF) | NatureScot Agri-Environment Climate SchemeWhole Farm Plan full guidance

The loss of species and degradation of our natural environment is an existential threat to the planet that requires urgent, collaborative and transformative solutions. We are in a biodiversity crisis, with 1 in 9 Scottish species facing extinction and declines in numbers and ranges of many plants, birds and animals. There is a need for action and Scotland’s Biodiversity Strategy to 2045 sets out a clear ambition - For Scotland to be Nature Positive by 2030, and to have restored and regenerated biodiversity across the country by 2045.  We are joined by Professor Davy McCracken to discuss the newly published Scottish Biodiversity Strategy and delivery plans to 2045 and his involvement with it. We go through what is included in the strategy and what it means for farmers and land managers in Scotland going forward.  Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producers Kerry Hammond & Kirstyn Blackwood Timestamps:0:55 – 9:20 The Scottish Biodiversity Strategy, it’s purpose and history 9:21 – 20:41 Outcomes, goals and six main objectives within the strategy 20:42 – 36:24 What it means for the rural sector going forward 36:25 – 43:39 investment in nature, who is paying for it and shifting baselines Related FAS resources:   Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceFAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceOther Related Resources: Scottish Biodiversity Strategy to 2045 - gov.scotDavy McCracken | SRUCScotland's Biodiversity | NatureScotScotland - State of Nature

Join us as we tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time—the biodiversity and climate crises—and explore the crucial role agriculture plays in addressing them. We delve into what these crises are, how they’re interconnected, and the efforts underway to combat them. In this episode, we’re joined by Prof. Dave Reay and Séamus Murphy, who share their valuable perspectives on topics ranging from global agreements like COP to the lived realities of farming. Together, we examine what these issues mean for agriculture and rural communities, unpacking the concept of a just transition, and the adoption of nature-based solutions. We also dive into the role of markets and public-private mechanisms, offering actionable steps for farmers and land managers to make a difference. Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editors Kieron Sim and Robbie Campbell, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond Timestamps: 1:15 – 10:05 - Experiences of climate and biodiversity crisis0:06 – 17:27 - Global agreements and COPs 17:28 – 33:05 - How to achieve targets and implications for agriculture33:06 -46:26 - Just transition, biodiversity and nature based solutions46:27 – end - Markets, mechanisms and next stepsRelated FAS resources:   Climate Change resources for farmers from Farm Advisory ServiceBiodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceOther Related Resources: UN Climate Change Conference COP 29 Baku - https://unfccc.int/cop29  UN Biodiversity Conference COP 16 Columbia - https://www.cbd.int/conferences/2024  Just Transition Commission - https://www.justtransition.scot/  Prof. Dave Reay - https://blogs.ed.ac.uk/davereay/   

Fungi, the often-overlooked kingdom of life, runs mostly undetected under out feet, forming intricate networks that support ecosystems in extraordinary ways. Mycorrhiza, a symbiotic relationship where fungi connect with plant roots, enables plants to absorb more water and nutrients in exchange for energy the plant obtains from sunlight.Rhizocore Technologies specialise in producing locally-adapted mycorrhizal fungi to boost tree planting success. By working with native fungi, they’re accelerating woodland regeneration, improving forest productivity, and creating sustainable solutions to combat climate change. In this episode, we’re joined by Toby Parkes, founder and CEO, and Franziska Scott, European Business Development Manager at Rhizocore Technologies. Together, we’ll explore the untapped potential of fungi in agriculture and forestry, the opportunities for shaping the future of sustainable land management and the vital role of fungi in fostering resilient, productive ecosystems.Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Robbie Campbell, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond.Related FAS resources:   FAS Sounds Natural Capital - https://www.fas.scot/sounds/natural-capital/ FAS Environment - https://www.fas.scot/environment/ Technical note 721 – soil biodiversity and soil health https://www.fas.scot/publication/technical-note-tn721-soil-biodiversity-and-soil-health/ Farm woodlands - https://www.fas.scot/crops-soils/farm-woodlands/ Other Related Resources: Rhizocore Technologies - https://www.rhizocore.com/ SPUN article - https://www.spun.earth/articles/carbon-paperTimestamps: 2:18 – 14:47 – What is fungi and what does it do?14:48 – 27:19 – Categorising and identifying types of fungi27:20 – 43:39 – Woodlands and Rhizopellets43:40 – END – Biodiversity, carbon and other natural capital benefits 

We are joined by Jonathan Morley from Pivotal, to discuss the importance of robust, reliable and verifiable data and how digital biodiversity monitoring is part of this. Pivotal are a biodiversity monitoring and analytics company working with a range of Natural Capital managers, funds and organisations across the world, providing data from both the ground and remote sources. We discuss the range of technologies and methods available and the use cases for high-quality, verified biodiversity data, including linking nature investment to real world outcomes. Jonathan gives us valuable insight on how good business and nature are interlinked, the role of land managers and how to accurately evidence the biodiversity on your land.   Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond.Timestamps: 2:25 – 11:07 methods and technology for gathering complex biodiversity data 11:08 – 16:49 benefits and improvements to digital data monitoring 16:50 – 35:36 how to collect high quality data, it’s uses and economic drivers 35:37 – end improving biodiversity and evidencing real world change  Related FAS resources:   Emerging Biodiversity Markets In Scotland, A Source Of Alternative Funding | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceInvesting in data for nature-based projects | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceBiodiversity Net Gain | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service Other Related Resources: PivotalMeasuring nature and biodiversity: A guide to high quality monitoring and analytics  

In 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 relevant to their agricultural activities. By 15 May 2025 farmers are being asked to prepare for the Whole Farm Plan by undertaking at least two baseline plans or audits including a carbon audit, soil analysis, an animal health and welfare plan, an integrated pest management plan and a biodiversity audit. Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Kieron Sim.Timestamps: 0:50 – 5:23 Intro to Whole Farm Plan and biodiversity audits 5:23 – 10:00 NatureScot biodiversity audit and ways to complete them 10:00 – 24:55 Story of the app being developed, data it uses and how it works 24:55 – end What NatureScot is learning from the audit, future plans and adviceRelated FAS ResourcesNatural Capital | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Preparing For The Future Whole Farm Plan | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Preparing For The Future Biodiversity Audits | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Other Related Resources  Biodiversity Audit | NatureScotWhole Farm Plan (ruralpayments.org)

The Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) is a charitable organisation that looks to bring farming, the working countryside, and Scotland’s Natural Capital to life for young people. The trust aims to connect Scotland’s youth to the countryside, and give insight into food, farming and countryside management in Scotland. The trust achieves this through a number of key activities, such as farm visits and providing educational resource materials for schools, along with much more.  Ensuring younger generations from both rural and urban communities are aware and understand where and how food is produced, and the countryside is managed, is vitally important in ensuring a thriving rural sector, and appreciation for Scotland’s Natural Capital and its conservation. Today we are joined by Katrina Barclay from RHET to hear about what their organisation does and why.  Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie.Timestamps: 1:30 – 5:30 What is RHET and the type work they do 5:34 –7:05 The role that Natural Capital has 7:05 – 33:29 Farming and learning outcomes, benefits for children and the sector.  33:30 – 40:49 Incorporating land use change and sustainability issues.  40:50 - 50:15 How can teachers and farmers get involved Related FAS Material: Environment resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceOther Related Materials: The Royal Highland Education Trust | Royal Highland Education Trust (rhet.org.uk)Food: The Facts | Royal Highland Education Trust (rhet.org.uk)THE 17 GOALS | Sustainable Development (un.org)Good Food Nation - Food and drink - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Loch Leven’s Larder is an enterprise with the farm to fork concept at its core, with the farm providing produce to the café and shop. Since 2005, the larder has put community and sustainability at the forefront of its operations, to provide the Loch Leven area a place to enjoy locally sourced healthy food in a relaxed atmosphere with views of the land that produced their food, and the Loch Leven landscape at large.Loch Leven’s Larder looks to utilise the natural capital in their area in a way that enhances biodiversity, stimulates local economy, provide space for local community, while maintaining a healthy business that thrives through diversification. Today we are speaking with Robin Niven from Loch Leven’s Larder, to discuss their story and how understanding, utilising and enhancing natural capital has shaped there business and provides opportunities for the future.Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond.Timestamps:1:25 – 4:09  The history and purpose of Loch Leven’s Larder4:10 – 12:31 Local community importance and benefits12:32 – 21:09 Why people visit, sustainable farming practices and looking after natural capital21:10 – 29:09 Private sector funding and sustainability of food to plate28:10 – 35:45 Advice for others looking to diversify and a thriving rural economyRelated FAS Material:Rural Business resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceOther Related Materials:Loch Leven's Larder- award-winning Kinross-shire Café, farm shop & gifts (lochlevenslarder.com)

Forth Rivers Trust leads the Leven LENs, a collaborative project that aims to match investors with local activities and projects, that preserve and enhance the Leven catchment’s natural assets. This strategy for long-term investment will deliver a healthy productive landscape, while benefitting the environment, boosting biodiversity and uplifting local communities.  We speak to Co-Director of Forth Rivers Trust, Amelia Heath about the Leven LENs project, the wider work of Forth Rivers Trust, their engagement within the Forth catchment and how they overcome the challenges they face.  Landscape Enterprise Networks (LENs) facilitate investment in nature-based solutions, that deliver productive, resilient landscapes alongside positive environmental outcomes. LENs, are a marketplace for land management measures that deliver ecosystem functions, creating a network of private and public stakeholders based on shared interests and collaboration. Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie Timestamps: 1:20 – 9:59 Forth Rivers Trust, working with land mangers and pressures on the catchment 10:00 – 13:29 LENs, collaboration and the roles of different stakeholders. 13:30 – 20:29 Loch Leven LENs, funding and engaging local communities 20:30 – 27:54 Other Forth Rivers Trust projects and overcoming challenges Related FAS resources:   FAS Water Management https://www.fas.scot/environment/water-management/  Landscape Scale Collaboration episode https://www.fas.scot/publication/natural-capital-landscape-scale-collaboration/  Landscape Scale Conservation https://www.fas.scot/article/landscape-scale-conservation/  Emerging Biodiversity Markets In Scotland, A Source Of Alternative Funding https://www.fas.scot/article/emerging-biodiversity-markets-in-scotland-a-source-of-alternative-funding/  Other Related Resources: Forth Rivers Trust https://forthriverstrust.org/  Landscape Enterprise Networks LENs https://landscapeenterprisenetworks.com/  FIRNS - The Facility for Investment Ready Nature in Scotland https://www.nature.scot/funding-and-projects/firns-facility-investment-ready-nature-scotland  MERLIN https://project-merlin.eu/    

It’s a brand-new series of Natural Capital with a brand-new host! To kick things off Harry speaks to Scottish Forestry’s Lyn White, who is their forestry and farming development officer. Lyn promotes an integrated approach to farming and forestry, to aid understanding and explore opportunities for them to work more effectively together. We discuss working with farmers to maximise the benefits to farms, the farmer-led Integrating Trees Network and all things agroforestry. We discuss the multiple benefits that planting trees can bring to agriculture, including providing shelter, improving productivity, diversifying income, creating habitats and combating climate change.   Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie  Related FAS resources:   Natural Capital | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Farm Woodland resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Integrated Land Management Plans (ILMPs) | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Forestry Grant Scheme | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Other Related Resources: Scottish Forestry - Integrating Trees NetworkIntegrating Trees Network EventsForestry Grant Scheme (ruralpayments.org)Scottish Forestry - Home Timestamps: 0:55 – 15:05 Lyn’s role and the benefits of agroforestry and integrating trees to farmland.   15:06 – 26:05 Agroforestry, considerations, challenges, and grant options. 26:06 – 33:52 Integrating trees network and farmer led initiatives. 33:53 – 40:05 Farmer hesitancies, where to get more info and making the most of your land. 

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is an approach that ensures habitats for wildlife are left in ameasurably better state than they were before development. In England, BNG is mandatory;developers must demonstrate and deliver an increase in biodiversity followingtheir development of 10%. In the last episode of this series, we hear from ecological consultant and future host ofthis podcast, Harry Fisher. We discuss his experience of BNG and how it works,including biodiversity metrics, valuing nature, opportunities for Scotland and whathe is looking forward to as the future host of Natural Capital. If you have an idea for future episodes, or want to provide feedback on the series, we wouldlove to hear from you. Visit: https://www.fas.scot/sounds-comments-and-suggestions/ Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor RossMackenzie.Related FAS resources:  FAS Biodiversity: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/ Previous Natural Capital episodes: https://www.fas.scot/sounds/natural-capital/ Emerging biodiversity markets in Scotland, a source of alternative funding: https://www.fas.scot/article/emerging-biodiversity-markets-in-scotland-a-source-of-alternative-funding/ Other Related Resources:Understanding biodiversity net gain: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/understanding-biodiversity-net-gain Defra statutory biodiversity metric tools and guides: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statutory-biodiversity-metric-tools-and-guides Research into approaches to measuring biodiversity in Scotland: https://www.gov.scot/publications/research-approaches-measuring-biodiversity-scotland/ Timestamps:Intro to episode and our new host Harry: 0:00 – 5:10What is BNG and its use: 5:11 – 13:13Actions to increase biodiversity: 13:14 – 19:12Impact and use of BNG on farms:  19:13 – 25:10Defra tool, metrics and valuing nature: 25:11 – 33:43

Are you looking for funding for projects to promote conservation and tackle climate change? In this episode of Natural Capital we discuss Scotland's Agri-Environment and Climate Scheme (AECS). AECS is the main mechanism used to support farmers wanting to implement sustainable land management practices such as improving water quality, managing flood risk or mitigating and adapting to climate change. We discuss what AECS has to offer with consultants Dr Paul Chapman and Alex Pirie to find out everything about AECS, how to apply and the opportunities it presents to create, restore and enhance natural capital assets.  Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie Related FAS resources:   FAS Biodiversity: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/  FAS Specialist Advice: https://www.fas.scot/specialist-advice/  Thrill of the hill: https://www.fas.scot/sounds/thrill-of-the-hill/  Other Related Resources: Woodland Trust MOREhedges: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/trees-for-landowners-and-farmers/morehedges  Woodland Trust MOREwoods: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/trees-for-landowners-and-farmers/morewoods/  Nature restoration fund: https://www.nature.scot/funding-and-projects/scottish-government-nature-restoration-fund-nrf  Rural Payments AECS: https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/agri-environment-climate-scheme/   Timecodes:  What is AECS and how it has developed 2:26 – 11:16  Alternative funding and collaboration 11:17 – 15:17 The application process 15:18 – 19:20  What’s included in this year's AECS 19:21 - 26:08 Deadlines, useful info and advice for new applicants 30:28 - 35:07 

In this episode of Natural Capital, we are talking about the issue that underpins every topic we cover, and that is finance and funding! With the economic and other pressures that landowners are facing it is great to be joined today by Steve Dunkley the Regional Agriculture Director at HSBC, and Martin Hanson the Head of Agriculture for HSBC, to share their view on ‘Green Finance’, what they are experiencing from clients and customers, and share their experience with some ‘Green Finance’ projects they have been involved with.  Steve Dunkley is HSBC's Regional Agriculture Director for Business Banking in the north. Steve has worked in the farming sector for the last 30 years, from the family farm in the Yorkshire Dales to careers in both consultancy and government.  Martin Hanson is the Head of Agriculture for HSBC and works with farming clients helping them grow and flourish providing appropriate working capital and long-term investment support to as many Agricultural Businesses as possible - helping to support the rural communities of the UK, protect the environment and our future. Related FAS resources:   FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/    FAS Biodiversity Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/     Other Related Resources:  https://www.business.hsbc.uk/en-gb/solutions/green-sme-fund  

For our final episode of 2023 we are getting a bit festive and are speaking to Ollie Mackay at Rothiemurchus Estate. Rothiemurchus is a special and beautiful place in the Highlands of Scotland, at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Ollie is the Head Ranger on the estate and we chat about all the estate’s natural capital assets and his role.   We learn about the range of activities and habitats the estate hosts including livestock, farming, beavers and tourism, alongside the pressures and opportunities this creates. Rothiemurchus is the custodian of one of the finest remnants of the Caledonian forest, a natural woodland dominated by Scots Pine that is managed sustainably for nature conservation, recreation, woodland grazing and timber production. Management of the forest has created an opportunity for environmentally friendly Christmas trees, with profits going back in to the upkeep of paths and projects on the estate.  Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie. Related FAS resources:   FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory ServiceBiodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Rewilding | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Living Alongside Beavers | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Other Related Resources: Home - Cairngorms National Park AuthorityWelcome to Rothiemurchus — RothiemurchusRothiemurchus Scots Pine Christmas Trees — Rothiemurchus

We visit the beautiful island of Islay, finding out about the unique habitats, species and important natural capital assets the island supports. The RSPB Islay reserves have internationally important populations of wintering Barnacle and Greenland White-fronted geese, and are also important for breeding Chough, Corncrake, Lapwing and a range of other wildlife.  All these species depend on farming practices and the correct land management to thrive. This creates conflicts and opportunities for land managers and agriculture on the island. To discuss this and lots more, we are joined by farmer Craig Archibald, RSPB Senior Farms Manager Eion Brown and Jack Fleming, Area Manager, RSPB for Argyll, Arran and Ardnamurchan.  Host Rachel Smillie, Producer Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, Editor Ross Mackenzie.  Related FAS resources:   Goose Management in Scotland: https://www.fas.scot/article/goose-management-in-scotland  Understanding Goose Control Law: https://www.fas.scot/article/understanding-goose-control-law-in-scotland/  Farmland Birds: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/farmland-birds/ FAS Sounds:  https://www.fas.scot/sounds/    FAS Biodiversity Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/       Other Related Resources:  Argyll Monitor Farm: www.monitorfarms.co.uk/farm/argyll-monitor-farm/  RSPB Loch Gruinart Reserve: https://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/loch-gruinart  RSPB The Oa Reserve: https://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/the-oa  Payments for goose management schemes: https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/land-and-sea-management/managing-wildlife/managing-geese/payments-goose-management-schemes  Islay Sustainable Goose Management Strategy: https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/land-and-sea-management/managing-wildlife/managing-geese/islay-sustainable-goose-management-strategy