Make Space For Nature – Details, episodes & analysis

Join us at the Solway Coast to explore how collaboration is creating climate resilience on Scotland's dynamic coastline.

David Pickett from the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) Caerlaverock Wetland Centre and Anna Austin from Caerlaverock Estate share how they're reconnecting fragmented landscapes. With backing from the Scottish Government's Nature Restoration Fund, they're turning drains into wetlands, pastures into corridors, and local ambition into climate-ready results.

Discover the practical side of restoration: cutting drains, looping burns, and carving ponds that invite lapwing, teal, and golden plover to return. Learn how grasslands and hedgerows weave through productive farms, connecting peatland, saltmarsh, and meadows into resilient networks.

Partnership drives this transformation. Neighbouring landowners work together to create thriving habitats where vulnerable species, such as natterjack toads, can flourish as the climate changes. From winter skies crowded with barnacle geese to summer meadows alive with dragonflies, this is nature restoration that works for people and place.

Ready to connect habitats in your area? Listen for tips on creating wildlife corridors and building partnerships that benefit both nature and communities.

Information:

Nature Restoration Fund

WWT Caerlaverock Wetland Centre

Caerlaverock Estate

The natural world is speaking to us through shifting species patterns, and Graham Madge from the Met Office is helping us translate. As both a climate communicator and lifelong wildlife observer, Graham brings a unique perspective to understanding how Scotland's changing climate is reshaping our beloved landscapes and wildlife.

Climate change isn't just about distant polar bears - profound transformations are already underway right here in Scotland. The Scottish crossbill, a finch found nowhere else on Earth, faces an uncertain future as warming pushes its suitable habitat northward, whilst Mediterranean species like little egrets and spoonbills are becoming increasingly common visitors to our shores.

Graham explores how extreme weather events accelerate these impacts, and how nature serves as both victim and potential saviour in our climate crisis. Scotland's peatlands and forests play crucial roles in carbon storage, while natural coastal defences help communities adapt to rising seas. Most importantly, he reveals how we can all help by creating connected habitats and recording the wildlife around us - turning every nature walk into vital climate science.

Information:

NatureScot – Climate Change

Met Office – Climate Change in the UK

Met Office – Effects of Climate Change

Curious about how volunteers are making a massive difference in the fight against invasive species in Scotland? In the second episode of our two-part series, we speak with Jane Hamilton, Volunteer and Communications Officer for the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative. She shares insights into how a powerful collaboration of landowners, organisations, and community members is tackling invasive non-native species like mink, giant hogweed, and Japanese knotweed.

We also hear from some of the dedicated and inspiring volunteers - Peter Howell, Calum McRoberts, Joe Martin, and Mike Baillie - who are on the front line of invasive species control. They reveal the range of methods used to manage these species and share what drives them to volunteer for this cause.

Jane explains how everyone can get involved, whether you're a seasoned volunteer or just curious about helping out. Listen in to discover how you can make a real impact, connect with a supportive volunteer network, and help protect Scotland's nature for future generations.

More information:

Scottish Invasive Species Initiative
NatureScot: Invasive non-native species information
GB Non-native Species Secretariat
Report a non-native species

Hear about the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative (SISI) from Project Manager Callum Sinclair of NatureScot. Learn how non-native invasive species like Japanese knotweed and American mink are not just persistent nuisances but significant threats to Scotland's ecosystems and economy. Callum delves into the challenges these species cause and explains the crucial ways we can all prevent and manage their spread.

He explains the effective and varied control strategies, from chemical treatments and manual removal, to community-driven efforts. We discuss the impact of these species on native wildlife such as ground-nesting birds, water voles and plants. Callum also emphasises the importance of public awareness and biosecurity measures, demonstrating how community engagement is vital in both reporting sightings and preventing the spread.

We hear about the invaluable contributions of volunteers and partners who dedicate their time and resources to this cause, showcasing how teamwork and passion can lead to substantial environmental conservation achievements.

More information:

Scottish Invasive Species Initiative
NatureScot: Invasive non-native species information
GB Non-native Species Secretariat
Report a non-native species

Discover the importance of Scotland's grasslands with our guest Jo Riggle, a Grassland Advocacy Officer from Plantlife. She highlights the fascinating range of grasslands and explains how these ecosystems are paramount for biodiversity, climate resilience, agriculture, and our mental and physical well-being.

You'll also gain an insight into the unique machair habitat exclusive to parts of Scotland and Ireland, and understand the pressing need to preserve this natural wonder.

With practical tips ranging from participating in No Mow May to creating wildlife-friendly gardens, you'll find plenty of ways to support local biodiversity. Tune in, get inspired, and take action to preserve Scotland's precious grasslands!

More information:
Plantlife Scotland
Plantlife's #NoMowMay movement
Volunteer with Plantlife and sign up for their newsletter
Plantlife's #WaxcapWatch app
Plantlife - Incredible grasslands
NatureScot - machair

In this episode we head to Loch Leven National Nature Reserve to meet with Reserve Manager Jeremy Squire and Reserve Officer Sally Reay to learn about the area's vibrant ecosystem and the huge variety of wildlife that thrives in this habitat.

Discover the seasonal spectacles that make Loch Leven a critical sanctuary for numerous species. With each season offering its own unique wonders, you'll learn what to look for and when to visit for an unforgettable wildlife experience, from courtship displays by great crested grebes and the dramatic arrival of pink-footed geese, to tornado-like swarms of non-biting midges.

Jeremy and Sally share the importance of balancing conservation efforts with public access, ensuring that both wildlife and visitors can benefit from this stunning landscape. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the tireless work of the reserve staff and volunteers, and be inspired to visit this special place.

Curious about how volunteering can change lives and communities? This episode reveals the incredible work of Volunteering Matters, as we celebrate 40 years of Volunteers' Week.

Robert Henderson joins us to spotlight the Volunteering Matters Action Earth
project, which has empowered over 100,000 volunteers through more than 3,100 environmental initiatives across Scotland. From the Shettleston Community Growing Project in Glasgow to Bridgend Farmhouse in Edinburgh, discover how volunteer efforts have transformed these into vibrant community hubs.

Hear about innovative initiatives, such as the Cassiltoun Housing Association's 'feel good verandas', and learn why it's vital to step outside your comfort zone. We'll also discuss the importance of recognising volunteer contributions and the inspirational achievements that managed to gain international media attention.

Robert shares powerful insights into the unexpected benefits of nature volunteering, including improved physical health, mental well-being, and the formation of cross-generational friendships.

Joe Knowles, a dedicated Action Earth volunteer, recounts his journey from retirement to becoming an active community member through creative projects like building a Noah garden and bug hotels. Let Joe's passion and commitment inspire you to contribute to the preservation of Scotland's natural beauty and discover how you can make a difference in your own community.

Volunteering Matters - Action Earth
Action Earth Ideas and Links
Volunteering Matters Scotland
Volunteer in the outdoors
Volunteering with NatureScot

Join us as we chat to Caitlyn Johnstone, a Nature Based Solutions Scientist from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE), to explore how plants and ecosystems can transform our cities.

Discover how integrating nature-based solutions can make monumental differences in tackling urban issues like flooding and heat. We hear about RBGE's Plants with Purpose research programme investigating the functional traits of plants such as temperature regulation and biodiversity restoration.  

Caitlyn’s stories and insights bring to life the adaptability of green infrastructure compared to traditional grey infrastructure. Her passion is contagious as she demonstrates how small, actionable changes in urban planning can lead to significant ecological benefits. 

We also discuss simple adaptations you can make in your own garden or greenspace to offer nature a helping hand, such as supporting pollinators throughout their lifecycle and managing rainwater efficiently, resulting in a more resilient environment.

More Information

Royal Garden Botanic Edinburgh

Nature Based Solutions at RGBE

Nature-based solutions, NatureScot

In this episode we chat to Heather McLaughlin from Keep Scotland Beautiful, about  Spring Clean Scotland, the campaign which brings together people from across Scotland to tackle the litter emergency.

We hear how this initiative rallies communities, schools, business and individuals to clean up and look after their local areas. She shares invaluable tips for taking part in, or organising, impactful clean-up events, the critical importance of data collection in driving policy change, and the need for a cultural shift to sustain environmental action all year round.

Then join us on the banks of the River Tay as we chat with Ross Dempster of Beyond Adventure, who reveals how initiatives like recycling, litter picking and carbon offsetting are integrated into their outdoor activities business. He shares stories of local cleanups, explains the benefits to both wildlife and individuals from volunteering in nature, and emphasises the ongoing need for community involvement in preserving Scotland's landscapes. 

More Information:
Keep Scotland Beautiful
The Spring Clean Scotland 2024 held between 15 March to 28 April, brings together people from across Scotland to tackle litter.
Beyond Adventure

In this episode we chat to Professor Greg Mannion from Stirling University and Dr Claire Ramjan, Lecturer in Initial Teacher Education at University of Glasgow, about the importance of outdoor learning.

Recently revealed in a report commissioned by NatureScot and other partners - provision of outdoor learning in Scotland’s schools and nurseries has increased for some, yet decreased for others – but why is this?

We discuss the potential reasons why, the recommendations made in the report to improve provision, as well as ways we can all encourage children in Scotland to learn more outdoors.

More Information

NatureScot Research Report 1313 - Teaching, learning and play in the outdoors: a survey of provision in Scotland in 2022 

Report highlights need for school children to be more connected to nature

Young People - Learning Outdoors and Developing Skills - facts, activities and inspiration to help you bring Scotland’s nature and landscapes to life for learners.​

Outdoor Learning Directory - a portal to services provided by Scottish organisations supporting outdoor learning.