The Highland Council is shining a light on the success of its Nature Restoration Fund as Green Health Week approaches.
Running from 3 to 11 May 2025, Green Health Week champions the benefits of nature for everyone’s wellbeing.
Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, praised the 67 projects backed by the fund.
He said they have greatly boosted biodiversity through tree planting, wetland creation, wildflower meadows and tackling invasive species.
The Nature Restoration Fund was set up by the Scottish Government as a capital fund to reverse biodiversity loss linked to climate change.
The Highland Council managed the fund over three years, working closely with Nature Scot to distribute funding.
A total of £633,061.09 was invested into 67 diverse projects right across the Highlands.
Thanks to the fund, an impressive 24,283 trees were planted by community groups and volunteers.
Almost nine hectares of vibrant wildflowers were sown, a space the size of 12 football pitches bursting with colour and life.
More than 1,600 metres of new hedgerow were planted to create vital wildlife corridors.
Dedicated teams removed 34 hectares of non-native or invasive species, giving local ecosystems room to thrive.
New wetlands and ponds covering 2.5 hectares, or the size of 19 Olympic swimming pools, were created to boost biodiversity.
Volunteers installed 35 new wildlife boxes, providing safe homes for birds, bats, and insects.
A remarkable 1,709 volunteers lent their time and energy to bring these projects to life.
Councillor Gowans said the focus of Green Health Week 2025 is celebrating diversity and promoting equality of access to nature.
He added that the Nature Restoration Fund projects embody that spirit by creating inclusive green spaces across communities.
The Council’s Community Regeneration Team is putting together a special brochure to showcase these inspiring projects.
This brochure will share the story of how local people and nature are working together for a better future.
The Highland Council is proud to be part of the Highland Green Health Partnership supporting Green Health Week.
This partnership promotes the power of the outdoors to tackle physical inactivity, mental health challenges and health inequalities.
For more information on how to get involved with Green Health Week please click HERE
