Case Studies

A rapidly expanding sector, Highland’s seaweed industry is pioneering sustainable blue-economy growth along one of Europe’s most climate-exposed coastlines. Climate change impacts, including warming seas, shifting species ranges, and stronger storms, are rapidly reshaping this emerging industry.

A low-lying Highland village facing growing pressures from sea-level rise, erosion, and flooding, Golspie exemplifies how strong community leadership and collaboration are driving efforts to build long-term coastal resilience and protect vital local services.

A rural housing support and community care service is increasingly challenged by more severe and unpredictable weather, which is disrupting access to vulnerable adults in a remote area of northern Scotland and intensifying pressures on staff, service users’ health, and the support needed to maintain independence in a changing climate.

Foulis Estate near Evanton is a diversified Highland landholding combining arable farming, forestry, tourism, and renewable energy. Facing wetter winters, emerging tree diseases, and rising coastal risks, the Munro family are adapting through diversification, soil management, and investment in climate-resilient enterprises.

Abacus Mountain Guides is adapting to increasingly unpredictable Scottish winters, which have reduced customer confidence in snow conditions. By expanding its summer offer and responding to growing demand for outdoor experiences, the business is finding new opportunities alongside the challenges of a warming climate.

Covering 400,000 hectares of peatland in Caithness and Sutherland, the Flow Country is the world’s largest blanket bog system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape faces growing pressure from climate change which exemplify how a warming climate threatens not only biodiversity and carbon storage, but also the livelihoods, identity, and international recognition tied to Scotland’s northern peatlands.