SLE urges Scottish government to reconsider nature restoration fund cuts

Press Release

The Scottish Government’s cuts to the Nature Restoration Fund not only harms progress on restoring biodiversity but also risks environmental investment and jobs, SLE said today.

The rural business organisation has written to Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes MSP, urging the government to urgently reconsider its decision to cut £5 million from the Nature Restoration Fund, a vital financial resource that has been instrumental in supporting Scotland’s rural communities in their efforts to tackle climate change and reestablish biodiversity.

Since its inception in 2021, the Nature Restoration Fund has been crucial in delivering over 164 projects across Scotland, contributing significantly to climate action and the restoration of natural habitats. This funding has not only helped to preserve Scotland’s unique environment but has also created jobs, boosted local economies, and leveraged investment by landowners and businesses.

Dee Ward, Chairman of Scottish Land & Estates, said: “Land managers across Scotland, who are on the frontline in the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss, will be shocked by this decision. The Nature Restoration Fund has been key to supporting jobs and projects that align with one of the First Minister’s four key priorities - tackling the climate emergency – as set out in Mr Swinney’s statement in May. This cut sends a clear message that rural Scotland is not a priority for this government.

“It is disappointing that, despite the rhetoric about resetting relations with rural Scotland, this government continues to make cuts that disproportionately affect our communities. Our rural areas are essential to delivering food security, driving Net Zero ambitions, and restoring natural environments that help our native wildlife thrive. Yet, when cuts are needed, rural budgets are the first to be targeted.”

Mr Ward emphasised the importance of reinstating the funding immediately to maintain the momentum in tackling the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. 

He continued: “While there have been promises to reinstate this funding in future years, past commitments to rural financing have not been honoured. This has only deepened the mistrust between rural Scotland and the government. Now, more than ever, the Scottish Government should be setting an example in addressing these critical issues, not backtracking on support.

“We would ask the government to review this decision urgently and to recognise the significant harm the cut will cause to the natural environment and the potential for future investment in rural Scotland. Significant achievements have been realised through the 164 projects delivered through the fund so far and rural businesses and communities want to continue this work which will benefit people, jobs and nature but we need the Scottish Government to work with us.”