Land and Water Resource Management
Our Land and Water Resource Management theme aims to support the recognition and quality of the ecosystem services on which society depends.
Our research supports key policies, including the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and the River Basin Management Planning (RBMP 3).
CREW’s Land and Water Resource Management theme focusses on providing high quality science knowledge regarding:
• Natural capital
• Land use and soil management
• Diffuse pollution
• Net zero pathway
• Circular economy
• Blue-green infrastructure
The projects undertaken within this theme aligns with policy and regulation areas including:
• Rural support - Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
Recent research published within this thematic area includes:
· Assessing the socio-economic impacts of soil degradation on Scotland’s water environment – the project team investigated the direct and indirect costs to society considering water quality, aquatic habitats, biodiversity and flooding.
· Understanding the relationship between water scarcity and land use in private water supply catchments - the project compiled an evidence base and offered recommendations informing policy and practice regarding how land use changes may impact the amount of water available to private water supplies (PWS).
Key legacy projects published within this thematic area include:
·2022 - Taking a collaborative approach in the water sector: A review of the Metropolitan Glasgow Strategic Drainage Partnership - the Metropolitan Glasgow Strategic Drainage Partnership (MGSDP) promotes collaborative surface water management. The project review highlighted lessons for future partnerships, including the need for strong coordination, knowledge-sharing, trust-building, and policy alignment to enhance flood resilience and climate adaptation.
·2016 - River restoration and biodiversity – the project found that rivers in the UK and Ireland are vital for biodiversity and human benefits but face ongoing threats. This report highlighted past damage, the need for restoration, and collaborative efforts to enhance river habitats.
·2016 - Valuing your soils – this project published the "Valuing Your Soils" guidance which provided Scottish farmers, crofters, and land managers with practical guidance on soil protection, financial benefits of better management, and efficient resource use, supported by field-sheets, technical details, and research case studies.
