Rural policy resources

The Rural Policy Centre's publications are organised into four themes, which cover the main policy areas we are involved in.

For archived publications please visit the Rural Policy Centre Pure profile or contact the team at rpc@sruc.ac.uk.

Rural policy themes

Environment & climate

Scotland has high quality landscapes and significant stock of natural capital. Climate change is bringing both challenges and opportunities, with significant action required to meet net zero targets.

Land use & land reform

Agriculture and forestry make up the predominant land uses in Scotland. Land reform can improve Scotland’s system of land ownership, use, rights and responsibilities.

Food, health & wellbeing

Scotland is renowned for its quality food products. However, work is needed to address the negative climate change impacts of food production and the health impacts of poor diets within Scotland.

Rural economies & communities

Rural areas make up 98% of the land mass in Scotland, but are faced with persistent challenges, such as lack of affordable housing. New opportunities and challenges are emerging from EU exit and the Covid-19 pandemic.