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Showcasing Scotland’s environmental heroes: Nature of Scotland Awards now open
From community groups to innovative land managers, RSPB Scotland is seeking entries that highlight exceptional efforts to protect and restore nature.
Scotland’s nature and the people who work tirelessly to protect it are once again in the spotlight as entries open for the Nature of Scotland Awards 2026, delivered by RSPB Scotland. The awards celebrate the individuals, communities, land managers, businesses and organisations who are making an outstanding contribution to safeguarding Scotland’s natural environment.
Now in their fifteenth year, the awards have become a cornerstone of Scotland’s environmental calendar, shining a light on the inspiring work taking place across the country — from peatland restoration and species recovery to community‑led conservation, sustainable farming and innovative climate action. With nature loss and climate pressures continuing to intensify, the awards offer a vital platform to recognise and champion those who are driving positive change.
This year’s categories highlight the breadth of Scotland’s environmental ambition. They include long‑standing favourites such as Nature and Climate Action, Community Initiative, Business for Nature, and Farming with Nature, alongside specialist categories that celebrate youth leadership, innovation and partnership working. Full details of all award categories can be found on the RSPB website.
The awards are open to projects of all sizes — from small community groups restoring local habitats to large‑scale landscape partnerships delivering transformational environmental outcomes. Judges are particularly keen to hear from rural and island communities, farmers, crofters, land managers and young people who are leading the way in nature‑friendly approaches.
RSPB Scotland emphasises that the awards are not only about celebrating success but also about sharing learning, inspiring others and building momentum for Scotland’s nature recovery. Many past winners have gone on to secure new partnerships, funding and national recognition, helping them scale up their work and reach new audiences.
The awards ceremony itself has become a highlight of the year for Scotland’s environmental sector, bringing together conservationists, community leaders, policymakers, land managers and businesses to celebrate collective achievements. Finalists benefit from national exposure, professional recognition and the chance to showcase their work to a wide audience.
With Scotland’s biodiversity facing unprecedented challenges, the Nature of Scotland Awards offer a powerful reminder of the creativity, commitment and collaboration that exist across the country. From restoring native woodlands and protecting vulnerable species to pioneering sustainable farming and empowering young conservationists, the awards celebrate the people and projects that are helping Scotland’s nature thrive.
Entries are now open, and RSPB Scotland is encouraging anyone involved in nature or climate action — whether as a volunteer, community group, land manager, business or partnership — to put themselves forward or nominate a project they admire.
Full details on how to enter, along with guidance on categories and eligibility, are available here: 🔗 https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/nature-of-scotland-awards
If you or someone you know is making a difference for Scotland’s nature, this is the perfect moment to shine a light on that work. Entries are free, and RSPB Scotland welcomes submissions from every corner of the country.
