A film highlighting that just 5% of available UK charitable grants go to protect Scotland’s nature has been launched in Edinburgh.
Scottish Environment LINK worked with award-winning filmmakers Maramedia to create the stunning film This is Scotland to raise awareness of disparities in funding that were first revealed in the 2017 report, Where the Green Grants Went (Scotland).
The report found that from 2012 to 2015 private funding for the environment was 20 times greater in England and Wales than in Scotland. Additionally, only 29% of grant giving foundations operating in the UK gave grants to environmental causes in Scotland,
Our Grants Fundraising Manager Steve Gardner said: “Scotland is home to some of the UK’s most iconic and important species and habitats – from red squirrels and orcas to magnificent pine forests and vast blanket bogs.
“Unfortunately, it is clear that Scotland is not receiving its fair share from major funders. This film aims to kick-start a conversation about how we can begin close this gap, and ensure there is suitable investment in nature to tackle the urgent challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.”
Just 5% of available UK charitable grants go to protect Scotland’s nature
Dr Deborah Long, Chief Officer of Scottish Environment LINK says: “The recent State of Nature Scotland report shows ongoing and accelerating declines in species in terms of numbers and distribution.
“Scotland’s environmental charities are working together to highlight this urgent issue, to reverse the trends and to ensure future generations can enjoy the natural richness we take for granted today. But Scotland needs appropriate levels of funding to be able to do that. Without investment, nature and landscapes in Scotland have no future.”
Maramedia, the company behind landmark BBC nature documentary series including Highlands: Scotland’s Wild Heart and Hebrides: Islands on the Edge created the film using beautiful footage of Scotland’s wild flora and fauna.
The issue of under-funding for Scotland’s environment was further explored at the film’s launch in Scotland during a panel discussion with leading environmentalist Hugh Raven, Chair of Environmental Funders Network, Drew Bennellick of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society and chaired by Deborah Long, Chief Officer of Scottish Environment LINK.
Hugh Raven commented: “Our report showed that Scotland’s environment gets a rum deal in terms of philanthropic support. If we are serious about conserving the nature of Scotland, these trends must be reversed urgently so that future generations can enjoy the many sights and sounds that Scotland has to offer and which are beautifully portrayed in this film.”
This is Scotland has been nominated for a Charity Film Award. Winners are selected through a public vote which closes on 1 December. Please vote now.