Shetland Islands Council explores pilot peatland restoration to cut land emissions

Shetland Islands Council is considering a pilot project to restore up to 2,500 hectares of peatland per year, starting with 350 hectares on its own land through 2028. Degraded peatland releases carbon dioxide, and land currently makes up 47% of the council's emissions. The council owns over 5,800 hectares of degraded peatland, and restoration is seen as a way to help meet net zero targets by 2045, though officials note the finances need to work. Funding may come from the government-backed Peatland Action, but committee members warn that Scottish government support has significantly reduced in recent years. The project would also explore legal requirements, economic case, and funding models, while learning from Shetland Amenity Trust's past restoration work. Even with grid connection expected later this year, the council still faces challenges hitting its emission reduction targets, making peatland restoration a key part of the strategy.