Peatland ACTION Project

The Peatland ACTION project is helping to restore damaged peatlands in Scotland. Since 2012, over 25,000 hectares have been put on the road to recovery with funding provided by the Scottish Government. Peatlands in good health are valuable and have many benefits to us all.

In February 2020, the Scottish Government announced a substantial, multi-annual investment in peatland restoration of more than £250 million over the next 10 years. Recognising that restoring peatlands is one of the most effective ways of locking in carbon; offering a clear nature-based solution to the climate crisis.

Peatland restoration can also play a key role in Scotland’s green recovery, by supporting the rural economy through the creation and development of land-based jobs and skills across Scotland.

A New Approach for 2020

One of the strengths of Peatland ACTION has been to work closely with partner organisations to deliver peatland restoration across Scotland. Building on the work undertaken to date, this year marks the first year of a new approach. Funding will now be provided directly by Scottish Government to some of our partners, including Forestry and Land Scotland and the National Parks, in order to increase capacity, resilience and skills across the sector.

Applications are open to all landowners and land managers through NatureScot’s Peatland ACTION Fund or, if your project is located within either of Scotland’s National Parks you should contact the relevant National Park to discuss your proposals (further information and contact details).

[The scale of funding will also enable large-scale projects to be developed over multiple years. Those wishing to discuss ideas should contact the Scottish Government in the first instance at [email protected].]

Funding 2020/21

The 2020-21 funding round closed at midnight on 30 September 2020, this page will be updated as soon as applications can be accepted for 2021-22.

The Peatland ACTION team are here to help - how best to contact us:

[email protected]
To speak to one of our local Project Officers about your proposed restoration project, including getting a peat depth and peatland condition survey completed, spatial data requirements or if you are interested in a feasibility study.

[email protected]
To submit your application, progress reports and claim forms, or to request changes to your project.  You can also get advice on procurement for your project.

[email protected]
For a copy of the Peatland Action Monitoring Strategy, and for technical spatial data advice

[email protected]
For all media enquiries and to discuss your project communications materials

[email protected]
To register your interest or reserve a space on future peatland restoration training events

*** New arrangements for National Parks ***

If your project is located within either of Scotland’s National Parks you should contact the relevant national park to discuss your proposals: 

Cairngorms National Park: [email protected] or [email protected]

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: [email protected]

Find out more

Read the latest Scottish Government blog
Public consultation news release on new draft strategy for peatlands in Caithness and Sutherland