We’re honoured to say that Lauriston Farm has been shortlisted for a Community Initiative Award at RSPB Scotland’s prestigious Nature of Scotland Awards.

We were picked as a bold and inspiring example of urban agroecology in action – showing how changes to the food and farming system can address help to resolve the climate, nature and public health crises.

It’s heartening to see the range of community-led conservation and habitat restoration projects in the shortlist. We’re glad to be able to show that farming belongs alongside them.

Agroecology (agriculture + ecology) says farming doesn’t have to be environmentally destructive. We can learn (again) to farm as part of the ecosystem. This is an understanding that was once common here, and still is elsewhere among peasant farmers and indigenous cultures. Our food system does not need to be harmful.

We’d love to highlight that even more with a win! And of course, everyone gets into farming for the glamorous award ceremonies 😉

The Community Initiative Award is a public vote. Please vote for us here:

Click here to vote in the RSPB Nature of Scotland Community Initiative Award

(closes midnight 2 October)

The Nature of Scotland Awards recognise individuals and organisations making a difference across local communities, schools, and businesses to support Scotland’s wildlife and natural environment.

Anne McCall, Director of RSPB Scotland said:

Every year the Nature of Scotland Awards celebrate people and projects going that extra mile to make a difference for nature in their local communities. We can’t tackle the nature and climate crisis alone and it is heartening to hear the inspiring stories of people coming together to protect species and improve spaces for nature. A huge thank you to all of this year’s applicants for sharing their tremendous work with us. I am looking forward to seeing everyone at the awards ceremony in November at what looks to be another night to remember.

Headline sponsor NatureScot’s Chair, Professor Colin Galbraith said:

At this critical time for nature and people, these nominees reflect the exciting diversity of talent caring for nature in Scotland’s communities and businesses. Each project nominated demonstrates that we all need to work together to help nature recover and to protect our precious environment for the future.

We’re delighted to be part of it – thank you RSPB Scotland for the nomination, and everyone please vote for us for the win!