In this special World Soil Day 2017 piece, Matt Aitkenhead and Cathy Hawes explore the ways in which soil is vital to our survival and discuss research looking at the relationships between carbon, climate change and land management. Matt Aitkenhead & Cathy Hawes Soil is vital to our survival. We need it to grow our crops, feed our livestock, maintain our water supply and provide a home for biodiversity. However, because we do not see it doing these things, we forget what it does and take it for granted. Like rain and sunshine, the soil has always been there, and we assume that it will always
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"A healthy soil with an ideal amount of soil organic carbon can provide good plant growing conditions, help nutrient cycling and allow adequate water infiltration and storage" Soil scientists from the James Hutton Institute, along with colleagues at Cranfield University, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, have contributed to the development of the first Global Soil Organic Matter map launched today (World Soil Day 2017), by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). Related content Soils@Hutton Allan Lilly More information from
“Ruthven Farm is making a big difference to a wide range of biodiversity and conservation targets on their land but also it was their passion and enthusiasm that impressed” The James Hutton Institute was proud to present an award at the prestigious RSPB Nature of Scotland Awards in Edinburgh last week. As sponsor of the Food & Farming category, the Institute supports the awards’ promotion of 'passionate commitment' to wildlife and sustainable practices. More information from: Gilllian Stirton, Senior Communications Manager, James Hutton Institute, Tel: +44 (0)1382 568928 (direct line) or +44
Throughout their studies PhD students receive support and mentoring from their Institute supervisors and our Postgraduate Student Liaison Team. New opportunities for PhD projects at the James Hutton Institute are now being advertised on FindAPhD.com. PhD projects are being offered by all five of our Science Groups covering many aspects of our work. All projects are funded jointly between the Institute and participating universities. Related content Postgraduate study Living and Working in Aberdeen Living and working in Dundee More information from: Bernardo Rodriguez-Salcedo, Media Manager
"We are fortunate to have Philip, and he makes a great contribution to the institute supporting other scientists too. This accolade further demonstrates the institute's world-class capabilities in science" A senior scientist from the James Hutton Institute has again been distinguished as a Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate Analytics. Professor Philip J. White, from our Ecological Sciences group, has been included in the Highly Cited Researcher list in Plant & Animal Science for the fourth year running - one of eighteen from the UK, and the only individual from Scotland, listed in this
The work carried out by SEFARI which relates to natural capital is varied and detailed, and encompasses soil, fresh water and biodiversity, together with the ecosystem services (including cultural services such as recreation, heritage, spiritual, amenity, and health) which they support. The vision for this work, and those carrying it out, is for recognition worldwide as leading authorities in the understanding and management of natural resources, and in the sustainable use of these resources in a manner that is resilient to future pressures. The benefits of achieving this vision are to enable
Farm “Access to land was identified as the most important barrier to new entrants. Although there are regions in Europe where land is available, accessing productive agricultural land is a major issue.” Scottish farming needs to attract a steady flow of young farmers and new entrants to maintain the vitality of its agricultural sector. The available statistics show that most farmers (54.92%) are over 55 years of age. The proportion of young people, i.e. those under 35 years of age is relatively low (5.94%). More information from: Adam Walker, Communications Officer, Tel: 01224 395095 (direct
Food and Drink is a hugely important sector for Scotland and the UK economy, generating a turnover of £14.4 billion and £5.3 billion of GVA (gross value added) for the Scottish economy in 2014 alone. This sector not only has an impact on Scotland’s economy but food production can also has a significant influence on our environment, health and society and these are all areas that SEFARI research aims to a make a difference. SEFARI represents a unique, long term sustained and globally distinctive multi and inter-disciplinary research collaboration and which delivers the Scottish Government
Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal attended a special event held today (Tuesday 21 st November) at Pentlands Science Park to celebrate Moredun’s rich heritage and unique partnership with the farming industry. The Princess Royal was joined by over 100 guests to hear more about the key achievements resulting from this unique partnership over the years and looking towards some of the exciting new opportunities arising from the very latest technologies.
Dr. Jagadeesh Yeluripat “In India, around 20 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions come from the agricultural industry, there is a huge pressure on the government to reduce this" Research from the James Hutton Institute will be utilised in a new initiative, with a potential spend of 1.2 billion dollars, aimed at tackling climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in India. One of the major impacts of climate change is soil degradation where estimates report that India is losing 5,334 million tons of soil every year due to soil erosion. Farmers in India are suffering from