As we move further into a post-industrial economy, exports are no longer goods and services but increasingly knowledge, expertise and innovation, particularly when it comes to finding solutions to an urgent problem: how to ensure enough food, water and energy to cover the needs of a growing global population without ruining the planet in the process.
The James Hutton Institute’s world-leading research in crops, land and the environment is making an impact in territories across the globe and will be presented at the Royal Highland Show, where its research programme for the next five years will be launched.
Professor Colin Campbell, the Institute’s Chief Executive, said: “The Institute is well respected in this global research market for delivering fundamental and applied science to drive the sustainable use of land and natural resources to underpin many of the Sustainable Development Goals. Our brand is strong and founded on excellent science that delivers global impact, following the inspiration of James Hutton after whom we are named.
“We are proud to deliver a programme of research for the Scottish Government that is relevant, respected and responsive to the needs of Scotland’s communities and to the rural economy both in the short and long term. By working in the space between different disciplines, and also with non-scientists and the people who own the problem, we will continue to deliver outcomes and impact to support Scottish policy, industry and stakeholders.”
Following on last year’s extensive programme of activities to mark the International Year of Soils, the James Hutton Institute will again highlight the Best Soil in Show and prizes will be presented by NFUS President Allan Bowie and Rory Stewart MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Environment and Rural Affairs, at the Institute’s marquee on Avenue Q on Show Friday.
Likewise, the Royal Highland Show will see the launch of a Scottish Government-funded research project to identify the challenges for, and potential policy tools to improve women’s participation in farming and leadership of the agricultural sector in Scotland. The research will provide an evidence base for women’s involvement in Scottish farming.
To find out about the practical applications of the Institute’s research, visit the Hutton marquee on Avenue Q where scientists will be on hand to explain how they deliver excellent science in partnership with business, policy and society.
Children attending the show can get stuck into fun activities to help them discover the science behind our food at the Institute’s stand in the RHET Children's Discovery Centre.