The risk of water scarcity in the Loch Maree area of the Highlands has increased to significant risk of water scarcity.
Two areas have increased to moderate scarcity – Ness in the Highlands and Esk in Dumfriesshire. 37 areas are now at Alert level.
Seven areas are at early warning for Water Scarcity – Orkney, Ythan, Don, Kintyre, Firth of Clyde, Loch Fyne and the River Add.
Businesses extracting water are being urged to put their water scarcity plans into action now to reduce pressure on the environment and preserve water resources.
Little rain is forecast for the next few weeks, and the water scarcity situation is expected to escalate quickly.
Loch Maree in the Highlands reaches significant risk – Ness and Esk areas increase to moderate risk
The risk of water scarcity around the Loch Maree area in the Highlands has been raised to Significant, the highest level available, in the latest report published by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
There are 23 abstraction licences issued by SEPA in the Loch Maree area, 22 of which are for hydropower generation and already have ‘low flow protection’ conditions set in their permits. This requires operators to stop abstracting as the environment gets drier, without the need for licence suspensions, and ensure flows are prioritised to the river.
SEPA is in contact with all affected businesses to provide further advice and guidance in line with Scotland’s National Water Scarcity Plan.
Nathan Critchlow-Watton, Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, said: “For the risk of water scarcity to have reached significant this early in the summer is extremely concerning and leaves no doubt that the next few months are going to be very challenging for all those who rely on the water environment to run their business.
“While water levels are critical in this part of the Highlands, we can see other areas of Scotland are on the same trajectory and it’s vital that businesses take steps now to maximise the resource available and prevent further environmental harm.”
This week’s water scarcity report, published 9th June 2023, reveals two areas are now at moderate scarcity – the Ness area in the Highlands and the Esk area of Dumfriesshire.
Most of the rest of the country is now at Alert – except for seven areas in early warning – Orkney, Ythan, Don, Kintyre, Firth of Clyde, Loch Fyne and the River Add.
Abstractors and irrigators are advised to manage water wisely to minimise the need for licence restrictions, and regularly check equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and not leaking. Where possible, the volume and rate of abstractions should be reduced.
Sarah Cowie, Environmental Resources Policy Manager at NFUS, said: “Water is a vital resource for the agricultural sector as we cannot produce food without a consistent and plentiful water supply.
“Last year, SEPA suspended abstraction licences for some growers for the first time and the current prolonged period of dry weather across the country means all farmers and growers must think about water use on farm now and plan ahead for the coming summer season.
“Our Horticulture Working Group met with SEPA this week to discuss a partnership approach between growers and SEPA on water resource management.”
Anyone concerned about meeting licence conditions or wishing to discuss contingency measures are encouraged to contact SEPA by emailing: waterscarcity@sepa.org.uk.
People and businesses are being urged to use water carefully as dry weather conditions are expected to persist and water demand is rising.
First Minister Humza Yousaf chaired a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR) this afternoon, attended by Deputy First Minister Shona Robison, Justice and Home Affairs Secretary Angela Constance and partners including SEPA, Scottish Water and the Met Office, to consider preparations and mitigations in the event of further water scarcity.
Following a drier than normal winter and spring, water levels in reservoirs are lower than would be expected for this time of year. Scottish Water reports that consumer demand has increased sharply since last weekend putting pressure on reservoirs, treatment works and water mains.
SEPA reports that, in the north of Scotland, the Loch Maree area has been raised to the Significant Water Scarcity level – the highest level – and the Ness area has increased to Moderate Water Scarcity. The Esk area in Dumfriesshire has also increased to Moderate Water Scarcity.
The First Minister said: “While there is no immediate risk to public water supplies, water levels are much lower than usual for the time of year, particularly in parts of north and southern Scotland. With little significant rain forecast, shortages could become more likely and potentially more widespread.
“Everyone needs to use water responsibly. I urge businesses and the public to follow the guidance provided by SEPA and Scottish Water on the measures that need to be taken.
“The Scottish Government has reopened the emergency scheme to provide bottled water to any homes on private water supplies that need it. Householders should contact their local council if required.
“Businesses extracting water directly from the environment are also being urged to put their water scarcity plans into action now to reduce pressure on the environment.
“The Scottish Government and partners are monitoring the situation closely and considering appropriate measures to mitigate potential future impacts.”
Businesses extracting water urged to manage water wisely as the country continues to experience warm, dry weather.
The risk of water scarcity in the Loch Maree area has increased to Moderate Scarcity.
12 areas in the Northwest and Southern Central region have been raised to Alert.
Most of the rest of Scotland is now at Early Warning for Water Scarcity.
Businesses extracting water are being urged to put their water scarcity plans into action now to reduce pressure on the environment and preserve water resources.
Little rain is forecast for the next few weeks, and the water scarcity situation is expected to escalate quickly.
The public can help to monitor impact on the environment.
Below average rainfall for May has led to a deteriorating water scarcity situation across Scotland, with the Loch Maree area in the Highlands moving from Alert level to Moderate Scarcity.
The area has now reached the second highest risk level, as shown in the weekly report published by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) on Thursday 1st June 2023.
In addition, the lack of rain and increasingly dry ground conditions means 12 areas in the Northwest and Southern Central region are now experiencing in Alert level.
Most of the rest of the country is now at Early Warning, with North Aberdeenshire the only area that remains at Normal Conditions for the time being.
The risk of water scarcity is categorised in four levels – Early Warning, Alert, Moderate Scarcity and Significant Scarcity.
Low rainfall and more dry weather to come
Scotland received only 44% of the long-term average rainfall across the country in May. With little rainfall forecast in the next week across Scotland, in the coming weeks the situation could escalate quickly, and extend across a much wider area.
The Loch Maree area in the Highlands has recorded prolonged extremely low river flows. The surrounding areas of the Northwest Highlands, extending down to Loch Ness, are also experiencing very low river levels so have moved to Alert level.
Areas in the Southern Central region that have increased to Alert level include the Clyde, parts of Dumfries and Galloway, and South Lanarkshire.
Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, Nathan Critchlow-Watton, said: “The water scarcity picture in Scotland is just one of the consequences of climate change the country faces, and its frequency and severity is only likely to increase in the future. This is a crucial time of year for water demand, but with no rain in the forecast we cannot rule out needing to impose restrictions over the summer.
“Abstractors must manage water wisely in the coming weeks and months and should already have contingency plans in place in case restrictions are needed to avoid long-term damage to the environment and fish populations
“All of us have a responsibility in managing our water environment, this summer and beyond. By using water efficiently, businesses can increase their resilience to the impacts of prolonged dry conditions and save money.”
Advice for abstractors to manage water wisely
Check SEPA’s website and regular water scarcity reports so you are aware of the water situation in your area.
Regularly check your abstraction equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and fix any leaks straight away.
Where possible, reduce the volume and rate of your abstractions.
Have a contingency plan if suspensions are put in place:
Have you any stored water available?
Can you switch to an alternative source, if available within your current authorisation?
Can you temporarily switch to ground water?
Work together with neighbours and stagger abstractions to make best use of available water.
Nathan Critchlow-Watton added: “We want to work with businesses to plan their water usage long-term so that we can preserve this vital resource as effectively as possible. Not only will that protect Scotland’s rivers and lochs, but it will minimise business risks as well.
“In the meantime, by taking the right steps now, abstractors can help make water supplies last as long as possible through this period.”
Further advice and support is available at www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.
Help SEPA assess water scarcity stress
SEPA continually assess the impacts of prolonged periods of drier than average weather on our environment, but with many people out enjoying good weather there are opportunities for the public to help. If dry weather continues, as it is expected to, the areas affected will grow.
People can help by reporting dry private water supplies and rivers and burns in their area – especially if there are photographs that will help show the conditions. Distressed or dead fish or invertebrates, large numbers of dead plants on parts of the riverbed that are rarely exposed and a lot of exposed algae over 100s of metres, combined with very low flows are also important to know about.
This will help provide the best possible understanding of the impacts of dry weather.
More information about what is helpful, as well as an explanation of how SEPA may use photographs is available on the agency’s website at Water scarcity in your area | Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)
Scottish bathing water season starts 1st June with more bathing waters rated excellent than ever before
Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition Màiri McAllan, designates Wardie Bay and Fisherrow Sands as Scottish bathing waters
Designation brings the total number of Bathing Waters in Scotland to 89 Improvements in water quality show long-term success but there is more to do
Water quality samples will be taken by SEPA across the season and results posted online to keep visitors informed
Locals and visitors encouraged to play their part in protecting and improving the quality of bathing waters
Scotland’s summers are known for both sunshine and showers – but whatever the weather the country’s environment regulator will be collecting and analysing water samples, predicting water quality and keeping beach users informed over the next three and a half months.
The Scottish bathing water season begins on 1st June and runs until 15th September, with 1,500 water samples taken by Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) staff at bathing waters around the country. In 2023 locals and visitors have more options than ever to choose from – with one brand new beach joining the list, and the nation’s first re-designation following decisions by Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition, Màiri McAllan.
Edinburgh’sWardie Bay is the latest bathing water to join the list of 89 in total, following an application by a local community group.
It joins alongside Fisherrow Sands in East Lothian, which has been re-designated following improvement works to improve water quality. Both beaches will have their water quality formally monitored and reported and will receive an official classification for the 2024 season.
2023 not only sees the highest number of bathing waters ever in Scotland, but the highest number rated excellent for water quality – and a total of 98% of locations achieving a classification of sufficient or better.
Màiri McAllan, Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition, said: “As a result of our investment in protecting and improving bathing waters across Scotland we now have the highest number of designated Bathing Water sites ever, with 98% passing bathing water quality standards and more rated as ‘excellent’ than ever before.
“However, we are not complacent. We continue to work closely with SEPA and Scottish Water to monitor and improve water quality on our designated beaches and in our designated lochs, to ensure that as many people as possible are able to enjoy them throughout this summer and beyond.”
Ruth Stidson, SEPA’s Principal Scientist for bathing waters, said: “Scotland is renowned for its water environment and it starts the 2023 season with record-breaking number of bathing waters rated as ‘excellent’.
“The number of bathing waters that are now meeting the standard is a testament to the work of SEPA and partners over the years, driving investment and improvement in both rural and urban areas.
“Time at the beach can be active or restful, and for many it’s a budget-friendly day out – especially when it’s near to their home. Many living in coastal communities use them regularly for walking or quiet reflection, as well as wild swimming, paddling and water-based recreation. Visitors often plan a whole day around time near the water, including visits to local shops and cafes.
“This season our staff will take around 1,500 samples around the country, analyse them in our accredited laboratories, and post the results online. We also have a network of 30 electronic signs at bathing waters that can be affected by rain fall, where we post the predicted water quality by 10am every day so people can make informed decisions about whether to bathe or enjoy shore-based activities.
“We can also make people aware of any pollution events that may impact the water quality. This information is also available on our website and by calling our contact centre.
“The results of our annual sampling also show us where further improvements need to be made – allowing us to continue to deliver real progress in the coming years for the future of our water environment.”
Professor Simon Parsons, Scottish Water’s Strategic Customer Service Planning Director, said: “Scottish Water is committed to continuing to support the protection and improvement of Scotland’s rivers, coastal waters and beaches and we are pleased to hear from SEPA that there are more bathing waters than ever before and a record number rated excellent.
“We look forward to playing our part in ensuring bathing waters become destinations for people to enjoy Scotland’s fantastic coastal waters.
“Scottish Water has invested £2.7 billion in improving and maintaining the country’s public drainage system and infrastructure over the past decade to help improve our waters. Our Improving Urban Waters Routemap, which supports the national River Basin Management Plan objectives (92% good water quality by 2027), commits us to additional investment of up to £500m to further improve water quality.”
Coastal community spaces
Local blue and green spaces are integral to our physical and mental health. Managing them well can improve well-being and other social and cultural benefits for local communities and visitors alike.
Wardie Bay
Wardie Bay in Edinburgh is the latest location to be designated as a bathing water following an application from Wardie Bay Beachwatch and The Wild Ones who demonstrated that a large number of bathers use the water and there was community support for designation. Edinburgh Council supported the designation, accepting required duties around signage and beach cleaning.
During 2022, SEPA sampled and reported water quality at Wardie Bay due to high community usage of the beach and an active application for bathing water designation. Our evidence indicates that Wardie Bay is expected to meet bathing water standards. Now designated by the Cabinet Secretary, the beach will be formally monitored and receive an official classification for 2024.
Karen Bates, Wardie Bay Beachwatch, said: “It has taken much time and effort to achieve this result for the #wardiebay4bathingwater campaign. We can finally be delighted that Wardie Bay is to be a protected bathing water.
“We are grateful to Cabinet Secretary Mairi McAllan for her progressive decision and for support from Council members who surmounted the obstacles to designation at this complex site.
“We are grateful too that SEPA published the essential information for Wardie swimmers in 2022. Thanks particularly to all those who help protect Wardie Bay, who signed the petition, took part in the campaign film and contributed to the applications.”
Fisherrow Sands
Fisherrow Sands in East Lothian has been re-designated following a project to improve water quality. The location was de-designated in 2020 following five consecutive poor results.
Pressures included overflows from the drainage network and misconnections from homes and businesses to surface waters.
SEPA has worked closely with the Scottish Government, Scottish Water, East Lothian Council and wider stakeholders to drive improvements and ensure these issues are addressed.
Over £3 million has been spent on works to improve water quality. This includes upgrades to waste water pumping stations, resolving multiple mis-connections and improvements to the sewer network to reduce spills. Sampling evidence from 2021 and 2022 indicates that, following this work, Fisherrow Sands can meet bathing water quality.
Increasing interest in improving water quality
With growing public interest in the quality of Scotland’s water environment, the improvement in bathing waters is a testament to the work that has already happened – and the reality of the resources required.
In 2016, the first year of water quality classifications under the new Bathing Water Directive, 80% of locations were classified as sufficient or better, with 17 rated excellent and 17 rated poor. In 2023, that figure has improved dramatically, 98% of bathing waters are rated sufficient or better, with 38 excellent and two poor.
Our Scottish climate impacts on water quality – due to heavy rain washing contaminants off both rural and urban land and overflows from sewage systems. As a result, it is recommended that users do not bathe for up to two days after heavy rain – and beaches with SEPA electronic signs will warn against bathing when poor water is predicted.
SEPA has focussed on improvement plans at all poor beaches to identify the causes and work with partners to realise real change.
SEPA has ensured Scottish Water investment has been targeted at areas where it will have the greatest impact, with major improvements in water quality at locations that had long-term issues such as Irvine and Ayr, following projects to upgrade sewage systems, install new treatment and investigate mis-connections. Scottish Water has invested £24.5m on bathing water improvements since 2015, including £10m at Ayr.
In addition, Scottish Water has committed to installing monitors and publishing near real-time data on every CSO discharging to a Bathing or Shellfish Water by the end of 2024. SEPA will ensure this commitment is delivered.
SEPA officers have walked river catchments and worked with farmers, who have started using new practices and spent significant sums of money on additional slurry storage facilities and installing alternative means of livestock watering to reach compliance.
Some have gone even further than is legally required, by planting riparian zones which move their farming activities further away from the water’s edge. Past improvements have led to more than 90% of farms being compliant – an increase of 50% in ten years.
The two bathing waters classified as poor for 2023, Lower Largo (designated in 2022) and Kinghorn (Harbour) both in Fife, have improvement plans in place.
SEPA is carrying out investigations at Kinghorn to identify the cause of this recent deterioration and further monitoring is planned. At Lower Largo, Scottish Water have been carrying out work to help assess bathing water impacts from the local drainage network. This work includes camera surveys, sampling and testing for misconnections from properties, which will help inform future improvement options.
SEPA will continue to monitor and report water quality and determine how best to drive water quality improvements over the next few years.
My Beach Your Beach project shows improvements in litter and dog fouling
My Beach, Your Beach launched in 2018, and over the last five years has supported bathing water quality improvements at seven Scottish beaches, in partnership with local community groups and beach managers.
You can find out more, watch the campaign film and read the report at My Beach, Your Beach (keepscotlandbeautiful.org)
Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and JustTransition Màiri McAllan, designates Wardie Bay as a Scottish bathing water.
Designation brings the total number of Bathing Waters in Scotland to 89.
Samples will be taken by SEPA to monitor water quality and the bathing water will receive an official classification for the 2024 season.
Locals and visitors encouraged to play their part in protecting and improving the quality of the new bathing water.
Wardie Bay in Edinburgh has become Scotland’s newest bathing water, following a decision by Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition Mairi McAllan to designate it for the 2023 season.
This decision, along with Fisherrow Sands in East Lothian becoming the first bathing water to be re-designated, is a real boost for the shore along the south of the Forth – and brings the total number of Scottish bathing waters to 89.
The Scottish bathing water season begins on 1st June and runs until 15th September, with 1,500 water samples taken by Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) staff at bathing waters around the country. These are analysed in its accredited laboratories, and the results posted online. Once the season is finished each bathing water will receive an official classification for 2024.
Application for designation
The application for bathing water status was submitted by Wardie Bay Beachwatch and The Wild Ones who demonstrated that a large number of bathers use the water and there was community support for designation. The city council supported the designation, accepting required duties around signage and beach cleaning.
Màiri McAllan, Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition said: “As a result of our investment in protecting and improving bathing waters across Scotland we now have the highest number of designated Bathing Water sites ever, with 98% passing bathing water quality standards and more rated as ‘excellent’ than ever before.
“However, we are not complacent. We continue to work closely with SEPA and Scottish Water to monitor and improve water quality on our designated beaches and in our designated lochs, to ensure that as many people as possible are able to enjoy them throughout this summer and beyond.”
Ruth Stidson, SEPA’s Principal Scientist for bathing waters, said: “It’s great news, especially for the local community, that Wardie Bay has been designated for the 2023 season by the Cabinet Secretary – and with Fisherrow re-designated, Scotland now has 89 bathing waters, more than any previous year.
“Designation of waters large numbers of people use for bathing over the summer months means they can be monitored, protected and, if necessary, improved.
“We’ve seen huge improvements in water quality at bathing waters over the years, and SEPA will continue this journey – through targeted regulation and working with others to achieve significant investment. This way we’ll ensure that visitors to our bathing waters, especially the thousands that live within a short walk or bike ride of our urban bathing waters, can continue to enjoy Scotland’s stunning blue spaces.”
Win for Wardie Bay
During 2022, SEPA sampled and reported water quality at Wardie Bay due to high community usage of the beach and an active application for bathing water designation.
Our evidence indicates that Wardie Bay is expected to meet bathing water standards. Now designated by the Cabinet Secretary, the beach will be formally monitored and receive an official classification for 2024.
Karen Bates, Wardie Bay Beachwatch, said: “It has taken much time and effort to achieve this result for the #wardiebay4bathingwater campaign. We can finally be delighted that Wardie Bay is to be a protected bathing water.
“We are grateful to Cabinet Secretary Mairi McAllan for her progressive decision and for support from Council members who surmounted the obstacles to designation at this complex site. We are grateful too that SEPA published the essential information for Wardie swimmers in 2022. Thanks particularly to all those who help protect Wardie Bay, who signed the petition, took part in the campaign film and contributed to the applications.”
Cllr Scott Arthur Environment Convener, City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This is great news for the wellbeing of our residents and visitors who enjoy taking a dip in this great stretch of Edinburgh’s coastline. I’d like to thank the users of Wardie Bay for helping it join Portobello on Edinburgh’s riviera as a bathing water beach.
“The water will continue to be monitored by SEPA, and I’d encourage you all to do your bit to keep it and the beach clean and protect nature there by taking your litter home with you, or use a local bin. Please also, remember to pick up after dog too, if you have one.
“Of course, you can also enjoy the beaches and support local traders along our coast at Portobello, Silverknowes and Cramond.”
Local outdoor spaces are integral to our physical and mental health and managing them well can improve well-being and other social and cultural benefits for local communities and visitors alike.
SEPA takes water samples over the full three and half months of Scotland’s official bathing water season, and after analysis the results are posted online. Pre-season sampling is carried out during May.
Congratulations to Karen and all involved with the Wardie Bay campaign – you have worked so hard and so long for this success. Well done! – Ed.
Alert level has been reached for the first time this year in the latest water scarcity report published by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
The area around Loch Maree in the Highlands has recorded very low river flows and dry ground conditions, meaning businesses abstracting water from the environment need to start thinking now about the volume they take and when they take it, or consider an alternative source.
The risk of water scarcity is categorised in four levels – Early Warning, Alert, Moderate Scarcity and Significant Scarcity.
Areas in southern and central Scotland, and the majority of the north including the Western Isles, are also now in Early Warning.
Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, Nathan Critchlow-Watton, said: “With very little to no rainfall forecast across Scotland in the coming days, we expect ground conditions to continue getting drier and river flows to decrease or remain low.
“The next few weeks and months are a crucial time of year for water demand and we’re urging abstractors to manage water wisely, minimising the need for restrictions to be imposed by SEPA.”
Scotland’s climate is changing and, across the seasons, businesses are experiencing the impacts of more frequent extreme weather events like water scarcity.
The number of serious drought events is projected to increase from an average of one every 20 years, to one every two years in the near future.
Nathan Critchlow-Watton added: “We all have a role to play in managing our water environment, this summer and beyond. Through the efficient use of water, businesses can increase their resilience to the impacts of prolonged dry conditions and save money.”
Several industries across Scotland rely on natural water resources, whether it’s for food and drink production, hydropower or maintaining world famous golf courses.
All water abstractors should be aware of the potential risk of water scarcity, monitor their water use, and plan ahead.
Businesses should review available options to increase their resilience and reduce the impacts of water scarcity. For example, land managers could consider investing in equipment and infrastructure to improve efficiency, such as an irrigation lagoon.
Those collecting water from the same source are urged to work together with neighbours and stagger abstractions to make best use of available water.
Businesses in Scotland abstracting water from the environment are being urged to plan for possible shortages this summer, with some parts of the country already recording low river levels and dry ground conditions.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has published the first water scarcity report of 2023, which shows parts of western, central and northern Scotland have reached Early Warning level for water scarcity.
It follows mixed conditions over the last six months, with winter drier than average across most of the country, in contrast to a mostly wet autumn. A particularly dry February has also contributed to lower than normal river flows and groundwater levels for this time of year.
Nathan Critchlow-Watton, Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, said: “Given the mixed weather we’ve experienced in autumn and winter, and the fact that some parts are already at Early Warning level, what happens next will shape the risk of water scarcity this summer. We can’t rule out a repeat of the water shortages businesses experienced last year.
“It’s vital that water abstractors licensed by SEPA have a plan to deal with water scarcity and we can help by providing advice and guidance on ways to reduce pressure on the water environment. Taking the right steps now will lower the likelihood of resources reaching a critical level again this summer and SEPA having to suspend licences to protect the water environment.”
SCOTLAND’S CHANGING CLIMATE
The latest IPCC report on climate change, published in March 2023, is clear that the window of opportunity to secure a sustainable future is rapidly closing and meaningful action is needed in all corners of the world.
Scotland is no exception. Although a country famed worldwide for its natural water environment and wet weather, the reality is water is not an infinite resource here. Climate change is bringing hotter, drier summers and is forcing the nation to change its relationship with water.
Significant impacts from water scarcity were apparent during 2022, particularly in the east of the country. Groundwater levels in the region were their lowest since records began in 2009 and there was below average rainfall in eight out of the twelve months.
In August and September 2022, SEPA took steps to protect the environment from the effects of prolonged dry weather by imposing suspensions on 175 water abstraction licences in four catchment areas. This required support and compliance from businesses, predominantly within the agriculture sector, around the rivers Eden, Tyne, Tweed and Ythan. Abstractors were required to stop taking water from these areas or reduce volumes for a brief period to allow levels to recover.
Environmental Resources Policy Manager at NFUS, Sarah Cowie, said: “Water is a vital resource for the agricultural sector, we cannot produce food without a consistent and plentiful water supply.
“Last year, SEPA suspended abstraction licences for some growers for the first time. This stark response to a prolonged period of dry weather highlights the impacts of a changing climate and the pressures it can bring on farm businesses.
“NFUS encourages all farmers and growers to think about water use on farm as early as possible, to plan for the coming summer season. This will ensure businesses can remain resilient at all times of the year.”
WORKING WITH BUSINESSES
Thriving, successful and sustainable Scottish businesses will be those that recognise the link between environmental and economic prosperity. Part of that is the critical role of managing our water resources and SEPA supports organisations to do this in sectors such as agriculture, aquaculture, hydropower, golf, and whisky production.
Pulteney in Wick is one of Scotland’s most northerly mainland whisky distilleries and relies solely on Loch Hempriggs to supply its water for production of its single malt whisky, Old Pulteney.
In Summer 2021, operators could see water levels at the loch were perilously low. Instead of waiting for regulatory action, the distillery worked with SEPA and followed advice on managing the resource. Production was voluntarily halted, and personnel were instead deployed to other maintenance tasks to ensure lost production days were made up efficiently once water supplies increased again.
International Beverage Group Distilleries Manager, Sean Priestley, said: “We’re acutely aware of the real risk of water scarcity, particularly in an area like Caithness where water is constrained. We made a decision not to shy away from this and to instead do the right thing for the environment, no matter how challenging this might be for our business.
“Loch Hempriggs is a vital natural resource, not one that we can simply replace or use technology to fix. It needs careful management, time and of course plenty of rain to sustain it. Responsibility for its stewardship falls to us.”
As well as implementing current water scarcity plans, the distillery is also focusing on innovation to find more sustainable ways of distilling whisky.
The team has been conducting a number of high gravity mashing trials to establish the best possible production process, minimising water usage while still maintaining the character of the Old Pulteney spirit.
High gravity mashing has proven successful at other International Beverage distilleries in Scotland and will have a positive impact on water usage at Pulteney once implemented.
ADVICE AHEAD OF THIS SUMMER
All water abstractors should be aware of the potential risk of water scarcity this summer, monitor their water use, and plan ahead for a range of weather conditions.
Businesses should review available options to increase their resilience and reduce the impacts of water scarcity. For example, land managers could consider investing in equipment and infrastructure to improve water-use efficiency such as an irrigation lagoon. Information on any financial support available to land managers can be found via the Scottish Rural Development Programme.
Those collecting water from the same source are urged to work together with neighbours and stagger abstractions to make best use of available water.
New statistics reveal that Scotland recycled less and sent more waste to incineration in 2021 than 2018. SEPA did not publish complete datasets for 2019 or 2020 because of the cyber-attack on the organisation.
The total amount of waste fell, probably in response to the fall in economic activity during the pandemic.
Waste statistics published today (28 March) by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) show that in 2021:
+ The total amount of waste generated in Scotland was 9.6 million tonnes;
+ 56% of this waste was recycled, a fall from 2018 when 60% of waste recycled;
+ This reduction means almost 1.5 million tonnes less of Scottish waste was recycled;
+ Incineration rose 14.6% compared to 2019 and the amount of waste burned tripled over 10 years
+ The amount of waste sent to landfill also increased by 0.4% from 2019.
Kim Pratt, circular economy campaigner at Friends of the Earth Scotland said: “This is the first time in three years that we have seen a snapshot of Scotland’s waste trends and the picture is extremely concerning.
“A fall in economic activity in the pandemic may have led to a short term drop in the amount of waste Scotland produces but this is likely to rise again once activity resumes.
“Despite the pandemic reducing overall waste levels, the amount of waste burned continues to rise and has tripled in just ten years. The moratorium on new incineration was a vital first step to reverse this trend but these statistics show it is not enough and must now be backed up with a ban on burning plastics and a phase out plan for existing incinerators. However, rather than closing incinerators, projects which already had planning permission are allowed to start operating and are receiving funding. This needs to stop now.
“Scotland must transform the way it uses materials and waste less to reduce our impact on the planet. It’s vital more is done to prevent valuable reusable or recyclable materials burning in incinerators or ending up in landfill. Ensuring waste is not created in the first place is the best way to reduce its environmental impacts, and if waste is created, we must recycle as much of it as possible.”
The Scottish Government published the second and final part of its independent review on incineration in February 2023. The review recommended that the Scottish Government should introduce a ban on burning plastics by 2030. The Scottish Government has not yet responded to these recommendations.
The NESS incinerator in Aberdeen was given Scottish Government funding in November 2022, six months after the first independent review on incineration was published. Despite construction problems and local communities voicing concern, the NESS incinerator begun burning waste in 2023.
Earlier this month it was revealed that, rather than treating the toxic bottom ash produced by the incinerator locally as planned, the operators are sending it over 100 miles to Fife.
Entries open for 2023 VIBES Scottish Environment Business Awards
Environmental trailblazers from Scotland’s business community are being invited to showcase the link between environmental and economic success by entering the 25th annual VIBES awards this spring.
Open to businesses large and small across the country, the awards recognise those who champion sustainability by reducing pressure on the planet’s resources and winning schemes focused on everything from accelerating action towards net zero, embracing circularity and increasing biodiversity.
Officially launched by SEPA CEO Nicole Paterson at an event in the capital on Wednesday 1 March, the 2023 awards will feature three new categories: the Just Transition Scotland Award, the Vision in Business Scotland Award and the STV Green Fund Award, with a £30K campaign partnership with STV up for grabs.
Other categories include the Product Scotland Award, Service Scotland Award, Circular Scotland Award, Sustainable Transport Scotland Award and Nature Rich Scotland Award.
Nicole Paterson, SEPA CEO said: “Thriving, successful and sustainable Scottish businesses will be those that recognise the link between environmental and economic prosperity, and with record breaking entries to last year’s VIBES awards, it’s clear that Scottish businesses agree.
“The journey towards sustainability is a challenging but necessary one and I, like many others, have been encouraged and inspired by the commitment and action from VIBES winners over the years.
“We saw energy efficient businesses charge ahead at the 2022 awards and I’m sure this year’s entrants will once again demonstrate effective solutions to some of our biggest challenges.”
The VIBES Scottish Environment Business Awards is a partnership between the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), The Scottish Government, Energy Saving Trust, Highland & Islands Enterprise, Scottish Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise, Scottish Water, Zero Waste Scotland and NatureScot.
This year’s judging panel includes Franceska van Dijk, Deputy Chair, SEPA, Robbie Kernahan is Director for Green Economy at NatureScot, and Jane Morrison-Ross, CEO, South of Scotland Enterprise.
Businesses have until 5pm on 14 April 2023 to submit their free application. Finalists will be announced in May before the annual awards ceremony in November.
For more information on VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards, please visit www.vibes.org.uk.
Communities across Scotland will be able to prepare and take action sooner to protect themselves from flooding as a new three-day Scottish Flood Forecast launches.
Developed by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the Met Office, the Scottish Flood Forecast provides the earliest indication possible of when and where flooding is expected over the next three days, and whether the source is from rivers, surface water or the sea.
In addition, the colour coded map on SEPA’s website describes the potential impacts on communities and links to advice and information on what protective action people can take if required. It also offers reassurance when significant flooding is not expected.
The Scottish Flood Forecast was developed following extensive research involving the public, community flood groups, emergency responders, partner organisations and both SEPA and Met Office employees. Feedback from more than 200 users was also gathered during a trial phase from May last year.
Gail Walker is from the Tillicoultry, Devonside and Coalsnaughton Flood Group (Tideco): “The Scottish Flood Forecast is an important information source for Tideco. Advance warning of flooding supports us to work out how we can best respond to weather events with the resources we have.
“Tillicoultry has a number of flooding issues and is a known flooding ‘hot spot’. This can include surface water and sewage flooding within residential streets, as well as flooding from the Tillicoultry Burn and the River Devon, which both have a history of having flooded out homes in the past. Whilst we have some flood defence measures in place, we still have areas that are vulnerable.
“The Scottish Flood Forecast is a useful trigger for the group to plan, prepare and to make sure volunteers are in areas where we know there is the potential for flooding. The key role of Tideco is to warn, inform and offer support to those at risk of flooding or who may have been impacted.”
The forecast is produced every morning, 365 days a year, and published on SEPA’s website. It is an additional tool for the public to use alongside the current Floodline service, which issues shorter notice Regional Flood Alerts and Local Flood Warnings to those signed up, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Environment Minister Mairi McAllan said: “Flooding can cause utter devastation to people and communities, as we saw again in several parts of the country in November and December last year.
“The impact of the climate emergency, across the world and here in Scotland, means that flooding will be more frequent. That is why it’s so important that we increase community resilience and take action to manage flood risk.
“The Scottish Flood Forecast will give people a three day look ahead to help make plans for travel and ensure safety and is a product of the excellent partnership working between SEPA and the Met Office.
“This new three-day forecast is a helpful addition to the other important services, such as Floodline, that the Scottish Flood Forecasting Service provides.”
Nicole Paterson, SEPA Chief Executive, added: “The Scottish Flood Forecast has been the biggest change to SEPA’s flood warning service in the last decade and is a major step forward in helping communities become more resilient to flooding.
“This winter we were reminded why that is so important, as parts of Scotland experienced damaging impacts from flooding – notably Aberdeenshire and Angus in November and Dumfries and Galloway in December.
“While the Scottish Flood Forecast currently displays information at a national level, work will continue on the forecast to gradually introduce localised information.”
Ian Cameron, Met Office Markets Director, said: “Every day the Met Office and SEPA teams work in close partnership to publish the Scottish Flood Forecast, providing guidance to the flood forecasting team at the Scottish Flood Forecasting Service (SFFS) with the latest weather information.
“Working together in the SFFS Partnership enables the Met Office and SEPA to achieve more together and create a more resilient environment.”
