SSEN is set to partner with a Scottish nature charity to assist in nature restoration efforts in the north of Scotland.
The electricity transmission network operator is pledging to support SCOTLAND: The Big Picture's Northwoods Rewilding Network, a Scotland-wide chain of land partners which are all committed to nature recovery.
The charity provides funding and guidance to the landowners in order for ecological nature restoration to take place on their land.
There are over 85 landholdings involved in Northwoods spread throughout Scotland, including working farms, crofts, and community woodlands.
SSEN recently launched a new nature strategy as part of its wider sustainability efforts in September, with hopes to have 10% biodiversity net gain on all projects gaining consent.
Emily Johns, SSEN's nature positive strategy manager, said: “This is a huge step forward for SSEN Transmission in becoming the first energy company to partner with SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, who are experts in nature restoration in Scotland.
“Not only is their knowledge about Scotland’s unique nature immensely valuable, but their extensive understanding of the social and cultural context of the land use in the Northwoods Rewilding Network is of huge significance – we want to make sure that we can play our part in building a community of nature restoration throughout the country.
“By creating a network of ecological stepping stones throughout the north of Scotland, it means wildlife species can link from place to place with the right habitats available for them to grow and thrive.
“We’re so excited to launch this partnership, which clearly establishes our commitment to nature and the environment."
James Nairne, Northwood's project lead at SCOTLAND The Big Picture, added: "SCOTLAND: The Big Picture created the Northwoods Network specifically to help remove the barriers to rewilding.
"Finding the required funding to take nature recovery forward is by far the most significant barrier. Having a robust partnership with SSEN Transmission will really help us to make a difference on the ground."
