Soil and Peat: The hidden key to climate resilience

In this episode of The SAGES Climate Science Podcast, we dig deep into Scotland’s soils and peatlands to uncover their crucial role in the fight against climate change. Our expert guests - Prof Lorna Dawson, Principal Scientist at the James Hutton Institute, Dr Lydia Cole, Lecturer at the University of St Andrews, and Luisa Orci Fernandez, Hydro Nation Scholar and PhD student at the University of Edinburgh - bring their wealth of knowledge on soil science, land management, and climate resilience to the discussion.

We begin by exploring what soil is and how Scotland's soil landscape compares to other countries. Despite its critical importance, how much do we truly know about the soils beneath our feet? The conversation moves to how we’ve historically managed our soils and how practices have changed over time. The guests shed light on the importance of peatlands, particularly in Scotland, where areas like the Flow Country have recently gained UNESCO World Heritage status. What does this designation mean for conservation and climate strategies?

The discussion also touches on the different opinions surrounding land use in Scotland. Are we all in agreement on how land should be managed, or are there conflicts that need resolving? Finally, we delve into the future of land use strategies and partnerships, examining how Scotland can move forward in balancing conservation, agriculture, and community interests.

Tune in to learn how the soil beneath us holds the potential to shape Scotland’s climate resilience and land-use strategies for years to come!