Action plan for Scotland's organic sector shows ambition

A new action plan for the Scottish organic sector, aimed at building a more sustainable future for the industry while regenerating the rural economy and conserving biodiversity and natural resources, was revealed yesterday.

Richard Lochhead said the organic sector 'has an important role to play'. Picture: Ian Rutherford

“Organic Ambitions: Scotland’s Organic Action Plan 2016-20” looks at the challenges facing the development of Scottish organic food and the actions required to address them. Drawn up by the Scottish Organic Forum, which includes all the main players in the sector, the report focused on the key areas of improving knowledge and encouraging skills whilst also building strength and resilience within the sector.

Speaking in advance of the formal launch of the plan at a parliamentary reception in Edinburgh, cabinet secretary for rural affairs, food and the environment Richard Lochhead said: “Scottish food and drink is a phenomenal success story and, as interest in organic produce increases, that sector clearly has an important role to play.”

Lochhead added: “Partnership and positive collaboration are key to achieving these aims and this new action plan will surely assist in realising these ambitions.”

Angela Mitchell, acting director of Soil Association Scotland, said: “The actions it sets out have the potential to make real change in how Scotland farms and eats, as well as increasing sales of organic produce and the amount of land farmed organically. This will be good for consumers, farmers and producers, and for the environment.”