UHI North, West and Hebrides event sparks proposal for Outer Hebrides Peatlands Forum

UHI North, West and Hebrides has strengthened its position as a leading centre for peatland research, training and environmental innovation after hosting a major peatland networking event in Stornoway in partnership with the Islands Centre for Net Zero (ICNZ), funded through the Islands Growth Deal.

The event brought together businesses, community organisations, researchers and policymakers from across the sector to discuss the future of peatland restoration in the Outer Hebrides, with discussions leading to a proposal for a new Outer Hebrides Peatlands Forum. The proposed forum will support collaboration, knowledge exchange and skills development, reinforcing the Outer Hebrides’ growing reputation as a nationally significant region for peatland restoration and climate research.

The discussions on the day also highlighted the important role UHI North, West and Hebrides is playing in developing the research, skills and partnerships needed to support Scotland’s net zero ambitions and deliver long-term environmental and community benefits across island and rural areas.

Attendees took part in collaborative workshops exploring the skills, training and research needed to support future peatland projects, alongside networking opportunities designed to connect organisations working across the sector.

Joan D’Arcy, Research and Development Coordinator for UHI North, West and Hebrides, funded through the Islands Centre for Net Zero, said:

“Restoring peatlands is a priority for the Islands Centre for Net Zero. Pristine peatlands act as carbon sinks, while damaged or drained peatlands release carbon and are one of the leading sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the Outer Hebrides.

“The key message from the day was that peatlands in the Outer Hebrides are shaped by people, culture and heritage. They are vital habitats and ecosystems, and only by understanding these connections can we work together to preserve and restore them for future generations.
“Events like this also demonstrate the important role UHI North, West and Hebrides can play in bringing together communities, industry and researchers to support sustainable environmental change.”

Joe MacPhee, Head of Strategic Projects at UHI North, West and Hebrides, said:
“This event showcased both the environmental importance of Outer Hebrides peatlands and the expertise that exists within UHI North, West and Hebrides to support future restoration efforts.
“Our aim is to help develop the skills, training and research needed to meet the specific needs of island communities while creating opportunities that deliver lasting benefits for people, the environment and the wider economy.
“By building partnerships across sectors, we can position the Outer Hebrides as a centre of excellence for peatland restoration, environmental research and green skills development.”

Roxane Andersen, Professor at UHI North, West and Hebrides in Thurso, said:
“My team and I were delighted to come to Stornoway to support the peatland event, where we were met with a huge wave of enthusiasm, engagement and positive energy.
“There is enormous potential here for growth in peatland research and training provision, and it is exciting to see UHI North, West and Hebrides helping to drive that conversation forward.”

Speakers at the event included Benjamin Inglis-Grant from Peatland ACTION; Thomas Fisher from Community Land Outer Hebrides; and Alex Skarlatos-Currie, Research Associate in the School of Geographical and Earth Sciences at the University of Glasgow. Skills workshops were led by the UHI Peatland Team, including Prof Roxane Andersen, Dr Mascha Bischoff, Dr Liam Godwin and Dr Mike Daniels.

UHI North, West and Hebrides brings significant expertise to peatland restoration and environmental research across the region. The “For Peat’s Sake” project, in partnership with NatureScot Peatland ACTION, provided businesses with practical training in peatland ecology, restoration techniques and hill-working safety, helping to build local expertise and support Scotland’s peatland restoration ambitions.

UHI North, West and Hebrides offers undergraduate and postgraduate study in environmental science and sustainable development, with research and training opportunities shaped by the landscapes and communities of the Highlands and Islands.

Find out more here:

Sustainability - UHI North, West and Hebrides