Supporting Scotland’s Transition

A new Scottish Government consultation analysis offers fresh insight into how rural and island communities view the future of land use and agriculture, highlighting both optimism and concern as Scotland moves toward a fairer, greener transition.

The Scottish Government has published Supporting Scotland’s Transition – Land Use and Agriculture: Consultation Analysis Report, a detailed review of public responses on the future direction of agricultural policy. The findings matter deeply for rural and island communities, where farming, crofting, and land stewardship remain central to local economies, cultural identity, and environmental resilience.

Key Themes Emerging from the Consultation

• Strong support for a just transition
  Respondents broadly agreed that Scotland’s shift toward climate‑friendly land management must protect rural livelihoods. Many emphasised that farmers and crofters need stability, long‑term clarity, and fair financial support to deliver environmental outcomes without undermining food production.
• Recognition of the unique needs of island and remote areas
  Contributors stressed that policies must reflect the realities of farming in challenging landscapes—higher costs, limited transport links, and fragile supply chains. Tailored support for island communities was a recurring theme.
• Desire for practical, accessible schemes
  Many respondents called for simpler application processes, reduced bureaucracy, and guidance that works for small family farms and crofts as well as larger enterprises.
• Emphasis on skills, advice, and knowledge sharing
  Stakeholders highlighted the importance of advisory services, peer‑to‑peer learning, and training to help land managers adopt new practices, from nature restoration to low‑carbon farming.
• Balancing food production with environmental goals
  While there was broad support for climate and biodiversity action, respondents urged policymakers to ensure that food security and local supply chains remain central to future frameworks.

Why This Matters for Rural and Island Scotland

For many communities, the transition is not just about policy—it’s about the future of local jobs, landscapes, and ways of life. The analysis report signals that government is listening to concerns about fairness, practicality, and regional variation. It also reinforces the role of farmers and crofters as key partners in delivering Scotland’s climate and nature ambitions.

What Happens Next?

The consultation analysis will inform the development of future agricultural support frameworks, including the new tiered payment system and wider land‑use strategy. Rural and island stakeholders can expect further opportunities to shape how these policies are implemented on the ground.

The report underscores a shared message from communities across Scotland: the transition must be ambitious, but it must also be workable—and rooted in the lived experience of those who manage the land every day.

Link the report: Supporting Scotland’s transition – land use and agriculture: consultation analysis report – gov.scot