Fidra is an environmental charity that employs the best available science to implement solutions to environmental challenges by collaborating with the public, industry, and governments. Their projects aim to promote sustainable societies and healthy ecosystems, with a specific focus on mitigating environmental threats arising from pollution and habitat degradation. Fidra is engaged in endeavors to diminish plastic and chemical pollution originating from packaging, plastic pellets, pitches, and salmon farms. These initiatives have prompted retailers and manufacturers to transition from plastic to paper for cotton bud sticks, decrease the use of harmful chemicals in receipts, and encourage retailers to discontinue the use of persistent chemicals in clothing. Fidra's efforts continue to expand, encompassing projects that prevent environmental contamination from detrimental chemicals such as flame retardants, as well as advocating innovative approaches to create space for nature.
The founders of Fidra were troubled by the visible pollution on the beaches around them and aspired to effect change. They were fortunate enough to translate the concept of establishing a solution-oriented environmental charity into reality. A significant portion of Fidra's work involves urging individuals to adopt new practices or find alternative ways to benefit the environment, particularly by preserving biodiverse ecosystems. While many of the issues Fidra addresses are intricate and worldwide, their work equips people with the information and motivation required to manage and resolve environmental concerns. Fidra provides information and opportunities for change to industries, governments, retailers, investors, individuals, and communities, whether that involves organizing a nurdle hunt, formulating a chemical policy, or labeling salmon. Often, Fidra's target audiences may not be able to resolve the issues single-handedly, but they can raise awareness about the problems and solutions and convey them to their peers to facilitate positive change.
Notable project examples include Fidra's role in shaping the Aquaculture Code of Practice in Scotland, which came into effect in November 2021. This code regulates the use of Acoustic Deterrent Devices (ADDs) in aquaculture, particularly salmon farming, and now mandates ADDs to be registered, with operating devices requiring an associated European Protected Species (EPS) License. Fidra also played a significant role in developing the PAS510 certification, a scheme that establishes best practice management standards for Pellets throughout the supply chain. This scheme aims to decrease pellet loss into the environment.
Fidra's influence extends to widespread public awareness of crucial environmental matters. The organization is frequently cited in media articles and exerts influence over key stakeholders, particularly the general public and policymakers. Fidra has recently impacted at least three vital national policies, offering a mechanism for reducing environmental threats and monitoring the adoption and application of these policies. Fidra has received several awards, including the 2022 4th Scottish Women's Award for Project Manager Dr. Clare Cavers for her accomplishments in the civil service, the 2022 Nature of Scotland Award (Coast and Waters category) nomination for the PFAS project, the 2019 Runners-up award for the Scottish Rural Awards (conservation and environment), and the 2017 Nature of Scotland award for marine conservation.
Fidra's citizen science project, the 'Great Global Nurdle Hunt,' involves collaboration with both international and local communities. Building on the success of the Great Global Nurdle Hunt, Fidra has expanded this model and encouraged global participation. The organization is establishing a global network of NGOs dedicated to addressing pellet pollution through webinars and a growing information hub with resources to support NGOs in their pursuit of local, national, and global solutions to pellet pollution. Fidra also engages in outreach activities at local schools and the Seabird Centre, participates in career events to inspire young people, and delivers lectures at the University of Edinburgh/SRUC. Fidra assists businesses seeking to contribute to environmental protection or increase staff awareness by involving them in activities like nurdle hunts. Additionally, Fidra provided financial support to another environmental organization during the Covid pandemic.