Natural Economy

World’s first GreenShed opens its doors

A world-first circular farming system which uses cattle waste to power a shed and grow indoor crops has opened its doors for the first time.…

SRUC
10/09/2024

Top biologist among those honoured with SRUC Fellowship

A biologist recognised by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation of one of ten people in the UK changing the face of health is among those to have been honoured with a Fellowship from SRUC.…

SRUC
09/09/2024

SRUC awarded £700k to measure cattle emissions

SRUC researchers have been awarded nearly £700,000 for equipment which will form part of an ultra-modern research facility to measure emissions from beef cattle, supporting the UK Government’s goals to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.…

SRUC
27/08/2024

SRUC to host prestigious international agriculture conference

Hosted by SRUC, the continent’s largest agricultural consultancy conference is coming to Scotland for the very first time.…

SRUC
07/08/2024

Digital Transition tops the bill at A3 Scotland 2024

A major drive to combat global challenges in the animal health, agritech and aquaculture sectors using digital technology will be revealed at A3 Scotland this September.…

SRUC
02/08/2024

Key Scottish sectors warned of doubling of drought events by 2050

Key Scottish industries are being encouraged to do more to adapt to climate change after a study commissioned by SRUC and partners found that the number of water scarcity events in Scotland could double by 2050.…

SRUC
24/07/2024

Reducing pesticide usage without risking yield

Nested within regenerative and lower input systems are the integrated pest management practices which reduce the risks of pest and disease outbreaks and yield losses. Sustainable and stewarded use of pesticides is integral to our current crop production systems, where they are used to protect yields and, by extension, food security.…

Fiona Burnett
19/06/2024

Harnessing nature for more resilient agriculture

Healthy ecosystems that support a diversity of species are more effective at recycling nutrients, at providing pollination services, and at regulating pests. In arable systems, focus is typically on actions to improve soil health; cover crops, livestock integration, reduced tillage, incorporating organic matter and reducing synthetic inputs.…

Lorna Cole
17/06/2024

Turning the Climate Tide: The Integral Role of Sustainable Livestock Practices

Given its significant contributions to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, livestock farming finds itself in a critical role. Understanding these emissions’ biogenic nature and shorter atmospheric lifespan not only presents a challenge, but also outlines a pathway for effective mitigation efforts.…

Poppy Frater
04/06/2024

Land management conference to address future training needs

A South West Scotland Future Landscapes Conference, designed to promote links between land management industries and identify future skills and training needs, is being organised by SRUC in collaboration with South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) and will be held in July.…

SRUC
29/05/2024

From grain to glass: addressing Scope 3 emissions

The carbon footprint of the drinks industry extends beyond the brewery and distillery gates. While direct emissions are often under scrutiny, the indirect Scope 3 emissions, particularly those associated with agricultural supply chains like barley, wheat and hop cultivation, tend to be overlooked. With growing demand for transparency and sustainable practices, addressing and mitigating these Scope 3 emissions is vital to meet global climate change targets.…

Iain Boyd
24/05/2024

Nature and biodiversity strategies: ‘Bio-washing’ in the corporate sphere

England’s new policy on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has been introduced this February. Industries aiming to develop land will have to provide 10% net gain in biodiversity, maintained for at least 30 years. The goal? For development to contribute to nature recovery and be nature positive. It may only be a matter of time before Scotland and Wales adopt similar policies as well.…

Tushaani Naudi
24/05/2024