East Ayrshire projects have been nominated for awards celebrating people and groups going above and beyond to protect the natural world and wildlife.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and NatureScot announced the shortlisted entrants in their Nature of Scotland Awards last week.
A Biosphere designated by UNESCO is nominated in the Business category.
Covering Cumnock, New Cumnock and Dalmellington, the area stretches as far south as Whithorn.
The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere has been internationally recognised as a world class environment for people and nature.
Ed Forrest, coordinator for the project, said: “A key part of the sustainability ethos of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere program is about developing a positive two-way relationship between people and their natural environment something which our Biosphere Proud Supporters have excelled in.”
Work at Tardoes Farm in Muirkirk is also shortlisted. The peatland restoration project has been lauded for its impact on climate resilience.
Andrew Bielinski, RSPB Scotland Area Manager, said: “We hope this excellent example of working with nature to tackle climate change will continue to interest and inspire farmers, conservationists and decision-makers alike to deliver more peatland restoration.”
And the East Ayrshire Learning Outdoors Support Team (LOST) are in the running for the Youth and Education Award.
Natalie White, head of outdoor learning, said: “The team work so hard to ensure there is equity across all barriers, all children can have exciting, engaging experiences.”
The winners will be announced at an online event on November 25.
Anne McCall, director of RSPB Scotland, said: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to every nomination and massive congratulations to those who have been shortlisted. This has been a uniquely challenging year for many and never has it felt more important to understand our interdependency with the natural world.”
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