News: DEFRA Announces New Round of Landscape Recovery Funding to Support Environmental Projects
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has recently unveiled the second round of landscape recovery funding, signalling a significant boost for agri-environment initiatives across the country. The grant aims to facilitate the restoration and conservation of natural landscapes, fostering biodiversity, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
The first round of funding, which received £12 million in development grants across 22 projects, saw a diverse range of projects aimed at restoring and protecting degraded ecosystems. These initiatives included the restoration of wetlands, woodlands, and coastal habitats, as well as projects focused on enhancing the ecological connectivity between protected areas, aiming to restore over 400 miles of rivers and protect and support at least 263 species. You can read more about the selected projects here.
The second round of landscape recovery funding was announced in May 2023, with a deadline set for applications in late September. The second round of Landscape Recovery focuses on projects in which farmers and landowners come together across at least 500 hectares to target net zero, protected sites and wildlife-rich habitats. Projects that prioritise afforestation, peatland restoration, and sustainable agricultural practices will be sought after. These initiatives are crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing carbon sequestration, and bolstering the resilience of ecosystems in the face of climate change. The Landscape Recovery funding supports some of the latest broader green finance policy introduced by DEFRA, aimed at mobilising private investment towards environmental initiatives. Such projects that receive funding may be able to utilise the latest standards, such as the Peatland Code and the Woodland Code, which provide frameworks for valuing and financing nature-based projects.
The scheme presents an opportunity for nature-positive projects to be developed at a significant scale. With substantial funding available, projects have the chance to make a tangible impact on landscape restoration, with a scope for additional benefits such as biodiversity enhancement. The scheme also provides a chance to leverage the expertise of the agricultural industry in achieving environmental objectives and enable the integration of sustainable land management practices into farming systems on a wider scale. Successful projects have the potential to influence the development of greener agricultural policy, setting a precedent for collaborative efforts in restoring nature and demonstrating the power of cross-sectoral partnerships. This funding round is not only a financial opportunity but also a chance to shape the future of environmental policy and foster a collaborative approach towards achieving shared goals for the natural environment.
To be eligible for landscape recovery funding in round two, projects must focus on landscape restoration, biodiversity enhancement, and climate change mitigation and adaptation. Projects should demonstrate a clear plan for achieving environmental outcomes, with specific targets and measurable indicators of success. Collaboration with local communities and relevant stakeholders is encouraged, as well as the integration of sustainable land management practices. Projects will be assessed based on their feasibility, impact, value for money, and alignment with government priorities.
To apply for the second round of funding or for further funding details, see the official documentation here. DEFRA are also running a series of webinars over the upcoming months to provider more information on the second round of funding. These will take place on the 15th June and the 8th August, providing applicant guidance and eligibility, and an overview of procurement and the application process respectively. Find more information and register for these here.
Accelar has actively supported nature-positive projects delivering ecosystem services in attracting private sector finance. With expertise in green finance, Accelar has experience assisting organisations in developing investable propositions, facilitating their entry into the market. Get in touch if you would like to hear more about our services.