Thematic Projects

Examples of Thematic projects:

Integrated Habitat Networks

One of the objectives of the GCV Green Network is to connect our quality spaces for the benefit of biodiversity and the environment.

Over the years, new developments and changes in land use across the GCV region, has led to an increasing number of isolated pockets of wildlife habitats.

This has not only reduced the extent of wildlife habitats but has led to the decline of some species and restricted the movement of others.

The Integrated Habitats Network project is a piece of research which will analyse the current extent and connectivity of habitat across the Glasgow and Clyde Valley area. The findings from this research will help the targeting of resources for habitat enhancement and expansion in key areas through the planning process.

Forest Research has been appointed to carry out this research and will run stakeholder workshops in August 2007. The final report is due by the end of the year.

Wood Energy

Woodlands already represent a significant proportion of land cover within the GCV area and this is expected to increase in the future. The Green Network Partnership wishes to secure high quality sustainable management of woodlands across the region.

The supply of timber for Wood Energy represents a potential opportunity for achieving this goal. The Wood Energy project will explore the supply and demand side issues that currently constrain growth of the sector in west central Scotland and will produce a development plan to address these issues.

In addition, ten business plans will be prepared demonstrating the financial benefits for potential users of transferring to wood energy.