Wendy Furness

🌊 Driving Innovation in Scotland’s Mussel Farming Sector 🌊 So pleased to share that Shell-volution, a pioneering £4.4M project, is officially underway! Supported by the UK Government through the #IslandsGrowthDeal, this initiative will transform the mussel farming sector, which is vital to the economy and sustainability of our region—especially our islands. As our region's anchor academic institution, UHI is delighted to see this industry-led project set to drive ground-breaking research and innovation tackling challenges in the sector. From developing predictive growth models to improving the reliability of wild spat recruitment, #research will be at the forefront of creating solutions that will: ✅ Increase Scotland’s mussel production by 10,000 tonnes annually. ✅ Strengthen rural and island economies by safeguarding and creating jobs. ✅ Promote sustainable practices that contribute to net-zero goals. This ambitious project demonstrates the power of #collaboration, bringing together industry, academia, and public sector partners to secure the future of mussel farming in Scotland. By advancing sustainable aquaculture, Shell-volution will not only benefit local communities but also set a benchmark for global best practices in the blue economy. Huge thanks to Seafood Shetland, the Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers, Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group, and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, as well as UHI Shetland and UHI colleagues. All credit to them for their shared vision and hard work in making this project a reality! #UHIResearch #BlueEconomy #Innovation #Sustainability #ThinkUHI

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As high costs continue to have an impact on agriculture, it's good to know that platforms such as GrantFinder are available to report on niche funding opportunities for farming businesses. For those in Scotland who have dedicated a decade or more to rural occupations, the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RSABI) extends a lifeline of financial support, companionship, and counsel. From seasoned farmers to forestry workers, the RSABI stands ready to aid individuals and their dependants, fostering resilience and camaraderie within Scotland's rural communities. In England, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) offers grants for farmers, growers, and land managers. Through initiatives such as the Farming Investment Fund (FIF) and the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF), Defra empowers agricultural innovators to embrace cutting-edge technology and enhance productivity. With funding opportunities tailored to modernise and optimise operations, Defra aims to support a sustainable and prosperous agricultural future through grant funding. Farmers in Wales can apply to the Welsh Government for grants to improve the technical, financial and environmental performance of their farm businesses. The objectives of the scheme are to increase on-farm investment, increase technical performance, increase on-farm production efficiencies, increase on-farm resource efficiencies and enhance the use of technology to improve management decisions. GrantFinder helps many local authorities and charities find niche funding opportunities such as these, contact us to book a demo. https://lnkd.in/eAc_vpMZ #GrantFinder #Agiculture #Funding

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New economic analysis commissioned by RSPB, National Trust and The Wildlife Trusts demonstrates that the current agricultural budget is significantly less than what is required for the UK farm and land management sector to help tackle the nature and climate crisis. Increasing investment in nature-friendly farming to £5.9bn per annum across the UK is essential to meet legally binding nature and climate targets, and improve the resilience of the UK farming industry. The current annual agricultural budget is £3.5 billion – which remains unchanged since 2013 – and approximately 20-25% is currently spent on agri-environment schemes that benefit nature. The new figures include, for the first time, analysis of different farm types across the UK and the variable costs of nature restoration across different sectors and sizes of farms. Climate change and nature loss are the two biggest threats to UK food security and we are already seeing their impacts on food production, including the impact of the incredibly wet year to date. We are urging the new UK Government and devolved governments to urgently rise to this challenge with more ambitious funding models for nature-friendly farming. Farmers must be rewarded for helping nature to recover and tackling climate change, as well as producing food. These issues are deeply interlinked. Restoring habitats can help protect communities from flooding. Protecting soils on farms helps to reduce run-off and clean up rivers. Landscapes full of wildlife lift our spirits and promote wellbeing, while also underpinning food production. The huge return on increasing investment in nature-friendly farming must be realised, and fast. https://lnkd.in/ev7dQDHQ #Food #Farming #SustainableBusiness #Agriculture

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“Customers have enjoyed the benefits of less investment…” says Water UK’s David Henderson on BBC Radio 4 Today programme, 8.25am, 8/10/24. I get his point and, to be fair, the full quote is below, but customers did not want lower water bills at the expense of rivers and seas being more polluted, and wildlife diminished. The stand-off over the size of water bills between water and sewerage companies and the government’s regulators is not helping. On the one hand companies have treated water bill payers as cash machines. On the other, Ofwat, the government’s economic regulator, has been environmentally-clueless. The government's obsession with deregulation and cutting its Environment Agency doesn't help. We’re constantly given the false choice of either low bills and more polluted and nature-depleted waters, or higher bills with perhaps a little less pollution, and nature in better condition at some vague point in the future...maybe. Here’s Henderson’s reply to Amol Rajan’s question about customers having to pay more now to make up for past failures to invest in fixing water pipes, upgrading creaky sewage plants etc: “Well, I’m afraid you’re right. It’s either the state pays or the customers pay. Customers have enjoyed the benefits of less investment than we think has been needed over the last fifteen or so years. “That’s why bills are about 20 per cent lower than if they had merely risen with inflation. So, now we have to play catch up, and unfortunately, because we are investing now and not ten years ago, interest rates are much higher so the costs is going to be greater…” Aside from blame games between Ofwat and Water UK, Mr Henderson didn’t get to say that some companies admit NOT investing enough in the past even within bill levels Ofwat set.

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🚜 Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has revealed stats on the uptake of environmental schemes across England, with Countryside Stewardship and Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) 2023 leading the way. Jack Watts Head of Economics Strategy, and Sarah Baker Head of Economics have compiled 1️⃣0️⃣ facts you need to know. More in-depth analysis to come next week! 👉 https://ow.ly/W7NZ50RvFUr

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The Rural Coalition has recently published its report "Reigniting Rural Futures," highlighting the untapped potential for sustainable growth in rural England. As the government pushes for economic growth, it must recognise the vital role rural areas play in national prosperity. Over the past 30 years, central funding for rural development schemes has shown how government intervention can positively impact rural businesses and the wider economy. Going forward, it’s essential that such schemes continue and delivered efficiently and pragmatically. Here is a case study showcasing the impact of simple interventions on a family-run rural business. https://lnkd.in/e524psKe #RuralDevelopment #SustainableGrowth #REPF #EconomicGrowth #RuralBusiness #GovernmentFunding #Innovation #defra #acre #northwarwickshire The CLA NFU (National Farmers'​ Union)

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People, Planet, Pint is coming around again - May 9th. The Mayoral election will be decided but what will that mean for climate change mitigation and adaptation in North Yorkshire? Come meet and discuss the: Environment & Energy: Transition to Carbon Negative – The transition to carbon negative is not just good for the environment, but can also support our businesses, people and communities:  Will the winner Monitor and measure the delivery of the Routemap to Carbon Negative. Will they Accelerate the drive to net-zero and a green, regenerative sustainable economy. Will they Implement The Circular Economy – Create a Waste Free Yorkshire! Will they support British leadership of a renewed clean industrial revolution is essential for economic revival and increased prosperity for British people. Will they have a visionary mission, with clarity of purpose and a clear target, well in advance of other developed economies, of net zero by 2030, which is also in line with the science. will they address the decline of nature in Britain must be switched to restoration immediately and our waterways protected from pollution. Looking forward to seeing you! https://lnkd.in/eF7D28qK

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Government Strengthens Sustainable Farming Incentive with Expanded Measures The government has announced a significant update to its Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme, broadening the range of actions farmers and landowners can take to reduce their environmental impact and qualify for subsidy payments. https://lnkd.in/eH2CJyEs #Policy #Biodiversity #Supplychain #Defra #farming #Subsidies #sustainablefarmingincentive #FoodTech #Agritech #GovernmentStrengthens #SustainableFarming #Incentives #ExpandedMeasures #SFIupdate #PolicyChanges #BiodiversityBoost #SupplyChainSupport #DefraInitiative #FarmingForTheFuture

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Great opportunity to make a difference on #ClimateAction in Scotland with this new role with SCVO (Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations) working with the brilliant Beth Mukushi on Growing Climate Confidence in Scotland's third sector. Climate Development Officer, 3 days/wk, blended working with a base in Glasgow, Edinburgh or Inverness. Job purpose: - Promote and raise awareness: Using the Growing Climate Confidence brand to reach organisations to encourage action on the climate crisis and help them relate this to their organisational mission. - Support organisations to develop and implement net-zero action plans, signposting to specialist sources of support and funding opportunities. - Develop shared insights: Share the real time aggregate data generated through the net zero scorecard, along with other research, with the Funders’ Forum and net zero working group to inform wider funding and support decisions. #Vacancy #Scotland #Charities #ClimateChange https://lnkd.in/eWcAk6Z5

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"Businesses are clear, the UK must now press ahead with implementing its own taxonomy." In our latest AG Insight piece, James Fotherby outlines the case for a robust green taxonomy in the UK, and how this can be delivered effectively. In the piece, James highlights that there is significant market appetite for a UK green taxonomy, and that delay is creating a growing sense of confusion amongst investors and corporates. To restore confidence amongst businesses, the Government must set out a clear timeline to implementing the UK Green Taxonomy, starting with the publication of the long-awaited consultation. As a leading green financial centre in a highly competitive market, the UK cannot afford to waste the second mover advantage it has gained. https://lnkd.in/ejRTRQd8

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SME business confidence has risen modestly for the third consecutive research period, with the Agriculture sector maintaining its upward trajectory - https://lnkd.in/eEBvjeYE Find out more in our latest business barometer. #CloseBrothersAssetFinance #BusinessBarometer #Agriculture #SupportingSMEs

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Britain's farmers are the lifeblood of our country. But in order to keep putting our food on our tables, they must keep moving their own businesses forward to survive and thrive. That requires money – but where can they get funding and what are the pros and cons? In this special CLA webinar, Rural Asset Finance founder and CEO Matthew Smart sets out some of the advantages and disadvantages of various options to make sure you choose the right funding model for you. https://lnkd.in/eMhDcWFU

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Here’s the scoop: the UK is shifting away from the old model of direct payments to landowners and farmers. Instead, they’re introducing new schemes based on enviromental land management practices. Think of it as financial support for things like boosting biodiversity, keeping soils healthy, and planting more trees—essentially, making it easier (and more sensible) to be eco-friendly with your land, all while easing the financial load. Our latest article in the Grant Library breaks down the main subsidy programmes like: Environmental Land Management (ELM), Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)etc. 📖 Curious? Check out the full article in our Library https://lnkd.in/dRABwiGy #SustainableLandManagement #EnvironmentalSupport #NatureRecovery #UKGrants

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What will a new government do for the UK farming industry? Under Conservative leadership, farmers have experienced significant political instability, financial pressures and the impacts of controversial trade deals and post-Brexit subsidy losses. But with the general election right around the corner, farmers are expressing desires for a government that understands farming – with a greater focus on food security and an ease on planning rules. As industry leaders in control systems for commercial greenhouses, we’re watching closely to see how the next government supports UK agriculture. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eaWtfryu

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New report from RSPB, National Trust & The Wildlife Trusts reveals need to increase the nature-friendly farming budget significantly to tackle the nature and climate crises and future proof British #farming. Find out more and read the report 👇 https://ow.ly/OkTS50SI3TY

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Budget a reality check for British farmers! Rebecca Morgan reports on how the latest budget has delivered a stark reality check for the agricultural sector, with serious implications for family farms, food security, and the wider rural economy. With her experience as a farmer in South Shropshire and as an associate director at Pinstone | B Corp Rebecca shares first-hand insights on what this means for farms like hers and the need for better communications to change the perception of farmers and the value they deliver. This budget decision reveals a clear disconnect between Government perception and farming realities. The view of farmers as “wealthy landowners” overlooks their vital role in food production, environmental stewardship and rural communities. Bridging this gap is essential, as public support remains crucial for the future of UK farming. Rebecca highlights that campaigns like Farmers Guardian "Save Britain’s Family Farms" are an important step toward raising awareness and understanding of the value family farms deliver. With new APR policies on the horizon, family farms face tough decisions, potentially impacting generations, with little incentive to invest and grow businesses. On November 19, Rebecca will attend the NFU (National Farmers'​ Union) London rally to push for a Government rethink, adding her voice to those fighting to protect the future of British farming. #SupportBritishFarming #Budget2024

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Today we published NatureScot Adapts – our first adaptation plan for making sure we understand and deal with the risks climate change poses to our business. We are changing the way we work, because business as usual is no longer an option. #ScotClimateWeek https://orlo.uk/0YM9s

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Sometimes it’s the companies that fly beneath the radar that can do the most to protect biodiversity. Read the latest report from our Biodiversity Equity team to learn the ‘secret sauce’ that goes into picking the best of biodiversity businesses: https://lnkd.in/gfANzZXS Ingrid Kukuljan Jordan Patel Gemma Corrigan Sonya Likhtman Paul Dalton #biodiversity #biodiversitychampions #biodiversityinvesting Capital at risk. For professional investors only. 

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In the wake of the recent budget announcement, the challenges facing UK agriculture are clearer than ever. Defra’s funding has remained stagnant in real terms since 2014, raising questions about the department’s capacity to deliver on the ambitious goals of the Agricultural Transition Plan (2021–2028). Compounding this is a persistent disconnect between policymakers and farmers, with many land managers feeling excluded from meaningful collaboration on schemes that directly impact their livelihoods. This moment demands a renewed focus on outcomes and stronger partnerships. How can we ensure that policies are not only well-intentioned but also practical and impactful, fostering trust and driving real change across the sector? Have a quick read and let me know if you agree with the NAO Report. #change #outcomes #policy #futurefarming #defra https://lnkd.in/eEcY8rD8

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