North Ayrshire groups are being urged to apply for a share of funding in the latest round of the Nature Restoration Fund, for longer-term projects that aim to transform our natural environment.
Grants of over £250,000 are available to larger-scale initiatives that restore and protect habitats and species, including freshwater and coastal and marine areas, control invasive non-native species, and reverse the loss of lowland biodiversity in urban areas.
The multi-year Nature Restoration Fund is open to projects that help Scotland's species, woodlands, rivers and seas back on the road to recovery.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“The Nature Restoration Fund is Scotland’s largest ever fund for nature and a vital opportunity to take positive action now and halt nature loss. It supports projects across North Ayrshire and Scotland that address the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.
“I previously promoted the SNP Government’s Biodiversity Strategy consultation. This sets out what our natural environment needs to look like by 2045 in order to reverse biodiversity decline and protect our environment for the future.
“Again, I encourage everyone who hasn’t done show to share their views and help shape this crucial roadmap toward a better and more sustainable future for Scotland.”
Chair of NatureScot, Mike Cantlay said:
“We are excited to see the initiative and ideas applicants bring forward. We need to take action to help nature in Scotland, not only to help us reach net zero by 2045 but also to create a healthier, more resilient country for us all.”
The SNP Government is investing more than £65 million through the Nature Restoration Fund over this parliamentary term alone, with at least £13.5 million available in this financial year.
£3.5 million was allocated to support 46 smaller-scale projects during this year to help support biodiversity in rural areas across the country.
A further £6.5 million has been allocated to councils and Scotland’s National Parks for local nature restoration projects.
More information on the Nature Restoration Fund and details on how to apply can be found on the NatureScot website.
The strategic priorities for the large project element of the Nature Restoration Fund follow those in the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy consultation, which closes on 12 September.
ENDS
