Scotland Rural Development Programme 2007-2013

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Appendix 2.1: Assessment of Theme 1 Priority Actions

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Biodiversity Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Biodiversity Objectives (Summarised)
To halt the loss of biodiversity (sp and habs) and continue to reverse previous loss	Protect and enhance protected habitats, species and areas	Reduce fragmentation / enhance connectivity of habitats	Address the threat to native habitats and species from invasive non-native species
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the recovery of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on habitat protection within the priorities action. In addition, competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to protect and/or enhance the environment. However, there are ways to link diversification to biodiversity benefits such as increasing organic farming.	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on protecting and enhancing species and habitats as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose. In addition, competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to protect and/or enhance the environment. However, if the focus of this was on increased organic farming this could be beneficial for protecting and enhancing habitats and species.	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the connectivity of habitats as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose. Competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to protect and/or enhance the environment. However, if the focus was on the provision of advice relating to diversification measures which lead to biodiversity this priority action could have biodiversity actions.	- This priority is considered offer limited, or no opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose. Competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to protect and/or enhance the environment and the costs of eradication of invasive species can be significant.
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the recovery of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on these issues. Biomass and energy crops offer little opportunity for protected species protection and can result in the loss of protected habitats and/or the loss of habitats which support protected species.	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on protecting and enhancing species and habitats as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose. Biomass and energy crops offer little opportunity for protected species enhancement and can result in the loss of protected habitats and/or habitats which support protected species.	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on the connectivity of habitats as although the planting of biomass fuels (wood) could increase woodland habitat connectivity, the planning of other energy crops resulting in place of habitats such as hedgerows and woodland, reducing their connectively. However these crops are harvested and therefore the benefits will be short lived.	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on the spread of invasive species as although the planting of biomass fuels (wood) could result in the replacement of invasive species this is unlikely as a result of their general preference for riparian corridors. In addition, the costs of eradication of invasive species can be significant and could result in the farming of these energy crops in areas where no invasive species have been identified.
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the recovery of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on habitat protection within the priorities action. The requirement for processing facilities could result in the further loss of protected species and/or habitats but the areas involved would be small and only an issue of sited in protected sites.	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the protection and enhancement of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on habitat protection within the priorities action. The requirement for processing facilities could result in the further loss of protected species and/or habitats	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the connectivity of habitats as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose. The requirement for processing facilities could result in further fragmentation of habitats.	- This priority is considered offer limited, or no opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose. The requirement for processing facilities could result in the further spread of these species unless care is taken during construction.
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the recovery of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on habitat protection within the priorities action.	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the protection and enhancement of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on this issue within the actions.	- This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the connectivity of habitats as a result of the lack of focus on habitats within the priorities action.	- This priority is considered to offer limited, or no opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	+ This priority is likely to have a significant positive impact on the recovery of protected species and habitats as a result of the focus on environmental issues. However, the locations in which feedstock is grown should be selected to avoid protected areas.	+ This priority is likely to have a positive impact on the protection and enhancement of protected species and habitats as a result of the focus on environmental issues. However, the locations in which feedstock is grown should be selected to avoid protected areas.	+ This priority is likely to have a significant positive impact on the connectivity of habitats as a result of the focus on environmental issues. However, the locations in which feedstock is grown should be selected to avoid fragmentation of habitats.	0 This priority could assist in reducing the spread of invasive species as a result of the focus on environmental issues. However, and the costs of eradication of invasive species and the proliferation of these species in riparian areas means this is unlikely to be significant.

Theme One Priorities

Biodiversity Objectives (Summarised)

To halt the loss of biodiversity (sp and habs) and continue to reverse previous loss

Protect and enhance protected habitats, species and areas

Reduce fragmentation / enhance connectivity of habitats

Address the threat to native habitats and species from invasive non-native species

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,
supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the recovery of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on habitat protection within the priorities action.

In addition, competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to protect and/or enhance the environment.

However, there are ways to link diversification to biodiversity benefits such as increasing organic farming.

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on protecting and enhancing species and habitats as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose.

In addition, competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to protect and/or enhance the environment.

However, if the focus of this was on increased organic farming this could be beneficial for protecting and enhancing habitats and species.

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the connectivity of habitats as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose.

Competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to protect and/or enhance the environment.

However, if the focus was on the provision of advice relating to diversification measures which lead to biodiversity this priority action could have biodiversity actions.

This priority is considered offer limited, or no opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose.

Competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to protect and/or enhance the environment and the costs of eradication of invasive species can be significant.

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the recovery of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on these issues.

Biomass and energy crops offer little opportunity for protected species protection and can result in the loss of protected habitats and/or the loss of habitats which support protected species.

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on protecting and enhancing species and habitats as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose.

Biomass and energy crops offer little opportunity for protected species enhancement and can result in the loss of protected habitats and/or habitats which support protected species.

This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on the connectivity of habitats as although the planting of biomass fuels (wood) could increase woodland habitat connectivity, the planning of other energy crops resulting in place of habitats such as hedgerows and woodland, reducing their connectively.

However these crops are harvested and therefore the benefits will be short lived.

This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on the spread of invasive species as although the planting of biomass fuels (wood) could result in the replacement of invasive species this is unlikely as a result of their general preference for riparian corridors. In addition, the costs of eradication of invasive species can be significant and could result in the farming of these energy crops in areas where no invasive species have been identified.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

The requirement for processing facilities could result in the further loss of protected species and/or habitats but the areas involved would be small and only an issue of sited in protected sites.

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the protection and enhancement of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on habitat protection within the priorities action.

The requirement for processing facilities could result in the further loss of protected species and/or habitats

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the connectivity of habitats as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose.

The requirement for processing facilities could result in further fragmentation of habitats.

This priority is considered offer limited, or no opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose.

The requirement for processing facilities could result in the further spread of these species unless care is taken during construction.

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the protection and enhancement of protected species and habitats as a result of the lack of focus on this issue within the actions.

This priority is considered to have a potentially negative impact on the connectivity of habitats as a result of the lack of focus on habitats within the priorities action.

This priority is considered to offer limited, or no opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as a result of the lack of actions identified for this purpose

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This priority is likely to have a significant positive impact on the recovery of protected species and habitats as a result of the focus on environmental issues.

However, the locations in which feedstock is grown should be selected to avoid protected areas.

This priority is likely to have a positive impact on the protection and enhancement of protected species and habitats as a result of the focus on environmental issues. However, the locations in which feedstock is grown should be selected to avoid protected areas.

This priority is likely to have a significant positive impact on the connectivity of habitats as a result of the focus on environmental issues.

However, the locations in which feedstock is grown should be selected to avoid fragmentation of habitats.

This priority could assist in reducing the spread of invasive species as a result of the focus on environmental issues.

However, and the costs of eradication of invasive species and the proliferation of these species in riparian areas means this is unlikely to be significant.

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Water Environment Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Water Environment Objectives (summary)
Achieve good water status ( GES) objective of WFD	Reduce diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry	Protect water resources
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	- This priority is not considered to assist in the achievement of GES as a result of the lack of focus on the water environment within the priority actions. In addition, competitiveness can result on a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment. However, if organic farming is promoted, benefits to the water environment as a result of reduced run off (nutrients and sediment) and increased biodiversity might result providing excessive abstraction does not occur.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the reduction of diffuse pollution from forestry or agriculture a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result on a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment However, if organic farming was promoted reduced diffuse pollution could results.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the protection of water resources a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result on a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment However, if organic farming was promoted water recourses could be better protected
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the achievement of GES as a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The growth of energy crops may have additional water needs which may result in increased abstraction affecting ecological status although CAR will control this. However, if organic farming is promoted, benefits to the water environment as a result of reduced run off (nutrients and sediment) and increased biodiversity might result	- This priority is not considered to assist in the reduction of diffuse pollution from forestry or agriculture a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The growth of energy crops if not carefully managed could result in increased use of fertilizers and increased diffuse pollution and there may be a need for increased irrigation which could increase diffuse pollution. Diffuse pollution would reduce dramatically if increased organic farming developed.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the protection of water resources a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The growth of energy crops may have additional water needs which may result in increased abstraction affecting water resources although this should be controlled under the provisions of CAR. The demand for water would reduce as a result of the increased organic content of soils of organic farming was extended.
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	- This priority is not considered to assist in the achievement of GES as a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The requirement for processing facilities could result in increased water usage and increased effluent production which could affect the water environment although CAR would regulate this..	- This priority is not considered to assist in the reduction of diffuse pollution from forestry or agriculture a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the protection of water resources a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The requirement for processing facilities could result in increased water usage which could affect water resources..
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the achievement of GES as a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The requirement for increased processing facilities could result in increased water usage and increased effluent production which the water environment although CAR would regulate this	- This priority is not considered to assist in the reduction of diffuse pollution from forestry or agriculture a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the protection of water resources a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The requirement for processing facilities could result in increased water usage which could affect water resources although CAR would control this.
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	+ This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on GES as a result of the focus on environmental issues. However increased feedstock growth could have additional water needs which may result in increased abstraction affecting the water environment although CAR would regulate this y.	+ This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact ion the reduction of diffuse pollution from forestry or agriculture as a result of the focus on environmental issues. Increased feedstock growth could if not carefully managed could result in increased use of fertilizer and increased diffuse pollution	+ This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on the protection of water resources as a result of the focus on environmental issues. Increased feedstock growth may have additional water needs which may result in increased abstraction affecting water resources although CAR would regulate this

Theme One Priorities

Water Environment Objectives (summary)

Achieve good water status ( GES) objective of WFD

Reduce diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry

Protect water resources

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,
supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This priority is not considered to assist in the achievement of GES as a result of the lack of focus on the water environment within the priority actions. In addition, competitiveness can result on a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment.

However, if organic farming is promoted, benefits to the water environment as a result of reduced run off (nutrients and sediment) and increased biodiversity might result providing excessive abstraction does not occur.

This priority is not considered to assist in the reduction of diffuse pollution from forestry or agriculture a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result on a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment

However, if organic farming was promoted reduced diffuse pollution could results.

This priority is not considered to assist in the protection of water resources a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result on a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment

However, if organic farming was promoted water recourses could be better protected

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This priority is not considered to assist in the achievement of GES as a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The growth of energy crops may have additional water needs which may result in increased abstraction affecting ecological status although CAR will control this.

However, if organic farming is promoted, benefits to the water environment as a result of reduced run off (nutrients and sediment) and increased biodiversity might result

This priority is not considered to assist in the reduction of diffuse pollution from forestry or agriculture a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The growth of energy crops if not carefully managed could result in increased use of fertilizers and increased diffuse pollution and there may be a need for increased irrigation which could increase diffuse pollution.

Diffuse pollution would reduce dramatically if increased organic farming developed.

This priority is not considered to assist in the protection of water resources a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions.

The growth of energy crops may have additional water needs which may result in increased abstraction affecting water resources although this should be controlled under the provisions of CAR.

The demand for water would reduce as a result of the increased organic content of soils of organic farming was extended.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

This priority is not considered to assist in the achievement of GES as a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The requirement for processing facilities could result in increased water usage and increased effluent production which could affect the water environment although CAR would regulate this..

This priority is not considered to assist in the protection of water resources a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions.

The requirement for processing facilities could result in increased water usage which could affect water resources..

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This priority is not considered to assist in the achievement of GES as a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions. The requirement for increased processing facilities could result in increased water usage and increased effluent production which the water environment although CAR would regulate this

This priority is not considered to assist in the protection of water resources a result of the lack of focus on water quality enhancement or protection within the priority actions.

The requirement for processing facilities could result in increased water usage which could affect water resources although CAR would control this.

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on GES as a result of the focus on environmental issues. However increased feedstock growth could have additional water needs which may result in increased abstraction affecting the water environment although CAR would regulate this y.

This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact ion the reduction of diffuse pollution from forestry or agriculture as a result of the focus on environmental issues. Increased feedstock growth could if not carefully managed could result in increased use of fertilizer and increased diffuse pollution

This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on the protection of water resources as a result of the focus on environmental issues. Increased feedstock growth may have additional water needs which may result in increased abstraction affecting water resources although CAR would regulate this

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Soil Quality Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Soil Quality Objectives (summary)
Promote sustainable management of soil
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	- This priority is not considered to assist in the sustainable management of soil a result of the lack of focus on soil management within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result on a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment. However, if organic farming was promoted as part of this priority, sustainable soil management would be promoted with knock on effects on the water environment (reduced nutrient and sediment run off and decreased abstraction) as well as increased biodiversity..
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the sustainable management of soil a result of the lack of focus on soil management within the priority actions. The growth of energy crops could result in negative impacts in soil quantity and quality if not carefully managed. However, if organic farming was promoted as part of this priority, sustainable soil management would be promoted with knock on effects on the water environment (reduced nutrient and sediment run off and decreased abstraction) as well as increased biodiversity..
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	- This priority is not considered to assist in the sustainable management of soils a result of the lack of focus on soil quality within the priority actions. The requirement for processing facilities could result in the loss of soil under process buildings etc which reduces the soil resources available.
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the sustainable management of soil a result of the lack of focus on soil management within the priority actions. The requirement for processing facilities could result in the loss of soil under process buildings etc which reduces the soil resources available but this is unlikely to be significant..
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	+ This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on the sustainable management of soil as a result of the focus on environmental issues. Increased feedstock growth could result in impacts in soil quantity and quality if not carefully managed. As stated above, the impacts of increased organic farming are considerable.

Theme One Priorities

Soil Quality Objectives (summary)

Promote sustainable management of soil

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,
supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This priority is not considered to assist in the sustainable management of soil a result of the lack of focus on soil management within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result on a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment.

However, if organic farming was promoted as part of this priority, sustainable soil management would be promoted with knock on effects on the water environment (reduced nutrient and sediment run off and decreased abstraction) as well as increased biodiversity..

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This priority is not considered to assist in the sustainable management of soil a result of the lack of focus on soil management within the priority actions. The growth of energy crops could result in negative impacts in soil quantity and quality if not carefully managed.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

This priority is not considered to assist in the sustainable management of soils a result of the lack of focus on soil quality within the priority actions.

The requirement for processing facilities could result in the loss of soil under process buildings etc which reduces the soil resources available.

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This priority is not considered to assist in the sustainable management of soil a result of the lack of focus on soil management within the priority actions.

The requirement for processing facilities could result in the loss of soil under process buildings etc which reduces the soil resources available but this is unlikely to be significant..

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on the sustainable management of soil as a result of the focus on environmental issues. Increased feedstock growth could result in impacts in soil quantity and quality if not carefully managed. As stated above, the impacts of increased organic farming are considerable.

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Air Quality Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Air Quality Objectives (summary)
Minimise the impacts of rural activities on air quality
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	- This priority is not considered to assist in the minimisation of impacts of rural activities on air quality as a result of the lack of focus on air pollution minimisation within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment and this could lead to the inappropriate storage of animal waste resulting in increased releases of ammonia. However cooperation between organisations could reduce transport costs via the reduction in journeys and/or journey length which could help reduce vehicular air pollution.
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	- This priority is not considered to have an impact on reducing the impact of rural activities on air quality as it does nothing to reduce vehicle emissions and neither does it address the release of ammonia from farm wastes. There is the potential for increased use of fertilisers on the increased biocrops which could lead to increased ammonia emissions. Increased vehicular emissions as a result of the increased volumes of biocrops requiring to be harvested and transported to biofuel plants etc could also result.
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	+ This priority is considered to have a potentially positive impact of air quality as a result of the integration of the supply chain which could result in reduced vehicular with vehicles transporting raw materials into the processing plant being loading with final products for the return journey rather than returning empty.
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on air quality. Although the development of efficient processing facilities in strategic locations could result in a reduction vehicular journeys, depending on the processing involved, increased processing could result in increased air emissions but these are no considered to be significant..
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	+ This priority is considered to have a positive impact on air quality as a result of as a result of the focus on the reduction of farm pollution which could result in reduced ammonia emissions.

Theme One Priorities

Air Quality Objectives (summary)

Minimise the impacts of rural activities on air quality

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,
supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This priority is not considered to assist in the minimisation of impacts of rural activities on air quality as a result of the lack of focus on air pollution minimisation within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment and this could lead to the inappropriate storage of animal waste resulting in increased releases of ammonia. However cooperation between organisations could reduce transport costs via the reduction in journeys and/or journey length which could help reduce vehicular air pollution.

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This priority is not considered to have an impact on reducing the impact of rural activities on air quality as it does nothing to reduce vehicle emissions and neither does it address the release of ammonia from farm wastes. There is the potential for increased use of fertilisers on the increased biocrops which could lead to increased ammonia emissions. Increased vehicular emissions as a result of the increased volumes of biocrops requiring to be harvested and transported to biofuel plants etc could also result.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

This priority is considered to have a potentially positive impact of air quality as a result of the integration of the supply chain which could result in reduced vehicular with vehicles transporting raw materials into the processing plant being loading with final products for the return journey rather than returning empty.

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on air quality. Although the development of efficient processing facilities in strategic locations could result in a reduction vehicular journeys, depending on the processing involved, increased processing could result in increased air emissions but these are no considered to be significant..

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This priority is considered to have a positive impact on air quality as a result of as a result of the focus on the reduction of farm pollution which could result in reduced ammonia emissions.

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Air and Climate Change Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Climate Change Objectives (summary)
Promote sustainable flood management	Minimise the impacts of rural activities on climate change	Increase the capacity of woodland and peatland for carbon sequestration	Increase the use of renewable energy
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	0 This option is not considered to have an impact, either positive or negative on sustainable flood management.	- This priority is not considered to assist in the minimisation of impacts on climate change as a result f the lack of focus on air pollution minimisation within the priority actions. Competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment although the reduction in transport costs via the reduction in journeys and/or journey length could help reduce climate change as a result of reduced vehicular greenhouse gas emissions.	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on the capacity for carbon sequestration. Although there is an action focusing on innovation and competitiveness in forestry, the impacts are considered to be negligible as although increased tree planting would be anticipated, there could be a resultant there could be increased transportation of the increased timber produced.	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on the use of renewable energy as although there is a potential for innovation in the forestry section to include increased renewable fuel production, this is not considered one of the key objectives of this priority
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	- This option could have a potentially negative impact on sustainable flood management if areas of land within a flood plain are converted to areas for biomass and energy cropping.	++ This priority is considered to have a positive impact on climate change as a result of as a result of the focus on the development of biomass and markets for energy crops. This impact will be two fold in that there will be a reduced release of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels and also there will be increased absorption of carbon dioxide by the increased volumes of crops being grown.	+ This priority is considered to have a positive impact on the capacity for carbon sequestration of woodland as a as a result of the focus on the development of biomass and markets for energy crops which could include timber products in particular willow.	++ This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on the use of renewable energy as a result of the focus on the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	0 This option is not considered to have an impact, either positive or negative on sustainable flood management.	+ This priority is considered to have a potentially positive impact of climate change as a result the integration of the supply chain which could result in reduced vehicular journeys	0 It is not considered that this priority will increase the capacity for carbon sequestration as there are no actions relating to woodland and/or peatland habitats..	0 It is not considered that this priority will increase the use of renewable energy as there are no actions relating to this issue..
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	- This option could have a potentially negative impact on sustainable flood management if areas of land within a flood plain are used for development of new processing plants.	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on climate change. Although the development of efficient processing facilities in strategic locations could result in a reduction vehicular journeys, depending on the processing involved, increased processing could result in increased air emissions.	0 It is not considered that this priority will increase the capacity for carbon sequestration as there are no actions relating to woodland and/or peatland habitats.	0 It is not considered that this priority will increase the use of renewable energy as there are no actions relating to this issue
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	0 This option is not considered to have an impact, either positive or negative on sustainable flood management.	++ This priority is considered to have a positive impact on climate change as a result of as a result of the focus on the development of feedstock for renewable energy production. This impact will be two fold in that there will be a reduced release of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels and also there will be increased absorption of carbon dioxide by the increased volumes of crops being grown.	- It is not considered that this priority will increase the capacity for carbon sequestration as there are no actions relating to woodland and/or peatland habitats. In addition, this option could result in woodland or peatland being converted to feedstock cropping.	++ This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on the use of renewable energy as a result of the focus on the production of feedstock for energy production..

Theme One Priorities

Climate Change Objectives (summary)

Promote sustainable flood management

Minimise the impacts of rural activities on climate change

Increase the capacity of woodland and peatland for carbon sequestration

Increase the use of renewable energy

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,
supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This option is not considered to have an impact, either positive or negative on sustainable flood management.

This priority is not considered to assist in the minimisation of impacts on climate change as a result f the lack of focus on air pollution minimisation within the priority actions.

Competitiveness can result in a reduced emphasis on actions to enhance and/or protect the environment although the reduction in transport costs via the reduction in journeys and/or journey length could help reduce climate change as a result of reduced vehicular greenhouse gas emissions.

This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on the capacity for carbon sequestration. Although there is an action focusing on innovation and competitiveness in forestry, the impacts are considered to be negligible as although increased tree planting would be anticipated, there could be a resultant there could be increased transportation of the increased timber produced.

This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on the use of renewable energy as although there is a potential for innovation in the forestry section to include increased renewable fuel production, this is not considered one of the key objectives of this priority

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This option could have a potentially negative impact on sustainable flood management if areas of land within a flood plain are converted to areas for biomass and energy cropping.

This priority is considered to have a positive impact on climate change as a result of as a result of the focus on the development of biomass and markets for energy crops. This impact will be two fold in that there will be a reduced release of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels and also there will be increased absorption of carbon dioxide by the increased volumes of crops being grown.

This priority is considered to have a positive impact on the capacity for carbon sequestration of woodland as a as a result of the focus on the development of biomass and markets for energy crops which could include timber products in particular willow.

This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on the use of renewable energy as a result of the focus on the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

This option is not considered to have an impact, either positive or negative on sustainable flood management.

This priority is considered to have a potentially positive impact of climate change as a result the integration of the supply chain which could result in reduced vehicular journeys

It is not considered that this priority will increase the capacity for carbon sequestration as there are no actions relating to woodland and/or peatland habitats..

It is not considered that this priority will increase the use of renewable energy as there are no actions relating to this issue..

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This option could have a potentially negative impact on sustainable flood management if areas of land within a flood plain are used for development of new processing plants.

This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on climate change. Although the development of efficient processing facilities in strategic locations could result in a reduction vehicular journeys, depending on the processing involved, increased processing could result in increased air emissions.

It is not considered that this priority will increase the capacity for carbon sequestration as there are no actions relating to woodland and/or peatland habitats.

It is not considered that this priority will increase the use of renewable energy as there are no actions relating to this issue

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This option is not considered to have an impact, either positive or negative on sustainable flood management.

This priority is considered to have a positive impact on climate change as a result of as a result of the focus on the development of feedstock for renewable energy production. This impact will be two fold in that there will be a reduced release of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels and also there will be increased absorption of carbon dioxide by the increased volumes of crops being grown.

It is not considered that this priority will increase the capacity for carbon sequestration as there are no actions relating to woodland and/or peatland habitats. In addition, this option could result in woodland or peatland being converted to feedstock cropping.

This priority is considered to have a significant positive impact on the use of renewable energy as a result of the focus on the production of feedstock for energy production..

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Population human health and wellbeing Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Population human health and wellbeing Objectives (summary)
Maximise the contribution of the agriculture and forestry sectors to the viability of Rural Scotland	Improve quality of life through increased access and	Promote healthy living, reduce health inequalities and improve quality of life
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	++ This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of the development of the competitiveness of the agricultural and forestry sectors and the creation of more jobs. .	0 This priority is not considered to offer increased opportunities for access and recreation.	+ This priority is considered to have a positive contribution to healthily living and quality of life of those living in rural Scotland by the creation of new jobs
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	++ This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of increasing Markey focus and ensuring that market demands are met therefore promoting the viability of the agricultural and forestry sectors	0 This priority is not considered to offer increased opportunities for access and recreation.	++ This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the production of high quality food and drink and the development of renewable energy sources. In addition this option provides an opportunity for job creation.
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	+ This priority is considered to have at positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of the efficient and effective development and operation of the agrifood sector in rural Scotland. .	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the lack of targeting of health and quality of life in this priority. .	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the lack of targeting of health and quality of life in this priority.
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	++ This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of the improved performance and flexible nature of the processing industry which will enable it to react to market changes. .	0 This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the lack of targeting of health and quality of life in this priority. ..	+ This priority is considered to have a positive contribution to healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the production of quality Scottish grown food
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	++ This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of the ability to promote an environmentally sustainable industry which will enable agricultural and forestry activities to continue in the long term.	++ to maintain the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage of rural Scotland enhancing access and recreation in these areas. .	+ This priority is considered to have a positive contribution to healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the objective the production of feedstock for renewable energy production .

Theme One Priorities

Population human health and wellbeing Objectives (summary)

Maximise the contribution of the agriculture and forestry sectors to the viability of Rural Scotland

Improve quality of life through increased access and

Promote healthy living, reduce health inequalities and improve quality of life

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,
supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of the development of the competitiveness of the agricultural and forestry sectors and the creation of more jobs. .

This priority is not considered to offer increased opportunities for access and recreation.

This priority is considered to have a positive contribution to healthily living and quality of life of those living in rural Scotland by the creation of new jobs

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of increasing Markey focus and ensuring that market demands are met therefore promoting the viability of the agricultural and forestry sectors

This priority is not considered to offer increased opportunities for access and recreation.

This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the production of high quality food and drink and the development of renewable energy sources. In addition this option provides an opportunity for job creation.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

This priority is considered to have at positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of the efficient and effective development and operation of the agrifood sector in rural Scotland. .

This priority is considered to have a neutral impact on healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the lack of targeting of health and quality of life in this priority. .

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of the improved performance and flexible nature of the processing industry which will enable it to react to market changes. .

This priority is considered to have a positive contribution to healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the production of quality Scottish grown food

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This priority is considered to have a significant positive contribution to the viability of Rural Scotland as a result of the ability to promote an environmentally sustainable industry which will enable agricultural and forestry activities to continue in the long term.

to maintain the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage of rural Scotland enhancing access and recreation in these areas. .

This priority is considered to have a positive contribution to healthily living and quality of life of those living both within and beyond rural Scotland as a result of the objective the production of feedstock for renewable energy production .

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Landscape Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Landscape Objectives (summary)
Safeguard and Enhance Scotland's landscapes
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	0 This priority is considered to have no potential to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscape as the priorities as a result of the of the lack of focus on landscape in the priority actions. Consideration should be given to the impact of increased forestry which could enhance or negatively impact upon the landscape depending on the location.
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	- This priority is considered to have a potential negative impact on Scotland's landscape if the intensive planting of biomass and energy crops is undertaken in areas sensitive areas. The impacts of this could be minimised if careful consideration is given to the location and nature of the planting.
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	0 This priority is considered to have no potential to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscape as the priorities as a result of the of the lack of focus on landscape in the priority actions. While the construction of new processing buildings may impact o the landscape this is considered to be minimal and will be covered under planning.
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	0 This priority is considered to have no potential to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscape as the priorities as a result of the lack of focus on landscape in the priority actions.
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	0 This priority is considered to have no potential to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscape as although there is reference to the natural heritage this is in reference to developing products that reflect the high quality natural heritage of rural Scotland.

Theme One Priorities

Landscape Objectives (summary)

Safeguard and Enhance Scotland's landscapes

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,
supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This priority is considered to have no potential to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscape as the priorities as a result of the of the lack of focus on landscape in the priority actions. Consideration should be given to the impact of increased forestry which could enhance or negatively impact upon the landscape depending on the location.

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This priority is considered to have a potential negative impact on Scotland's landscape if the intensive planting of biomass and energy crops is undertaken in areas sensitive areas. The impacts of this could be minimised if careful consideration is given to the location and nature of the planting.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

This priority is considered to have no potential to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscape as the priorities as a result of the of the lack of focus on landscape in the priority actions. While the construction of new processing buildings may impact o the landscape this is considered to be minimal and will be covered under planning.

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This priority is considered to have no potential to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscape as the priorities as a result of the lack of focus on landscape in the priority actions.

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This priority is considered to have no potential to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscape as although there is reference to the natural heritage this is in reference to developing products that reflect the high quality natural heritage of rural Scotland.

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Cultural Heritage Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Cultural Heritage Objectives (summary
To protect, and where appropriate, enhance the historic environment	Strengthen Scotland's Cultural identity
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	0 This priority is considered to have no potential to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland as a result of the of the lack of focus on cultural and historic issues in the priority actions.	0 This priority is considered to have no potential to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity as a result of the of the lack of focus on cultural issues in the priority actions
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	+ This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland through the promotion of traditionally Scottish and regional produce such as differing breeds of livestock. This would be taken forward through the regional boards.	+ This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity through the promotion of traditionally Scottish and regional produce such as differing breeds of livestock. This would be taken forward through the regional boards.
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	+ This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland through the promotion of traditional products grown and processed in Scotland. This would be taken forward through the regional boards.	+ This priority is considered to have the potential to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity by promoting products grown and produced in Scotland. This would be taken forward through the regional boards.
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	+ This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland through the focus on quality Scottish grown food and forestry products	+ This priority is considered to have potential to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity as a result of the focus on quality Scottish grown food and forestry products.
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	+ This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland through the focus on the development of products which reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage of Scotland.	+ This priority is considered to have potential to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity through the focus on the development of products which reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage of Scotland.

Theme One Priorities

Cultural Heritage Objectives (summary

To protect, and where appropriate, enhance the historic environment

Strengthen Scotland's Cultural identity

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,

supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This priority is considered to have no potential to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland as a result of the of the lack of focus on cultural and historic issues in the priority actions.

This priority is considered to have no potential to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity as a result of the of the lack of focus on cultural issues in the priority actions

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland through the promotion of traditionally Scottish and regional produce such as differing breeds of livestock. This would be taken forward through the regional boards.

This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity through the promotion of traditionally Scottish and regional produce such as differing breeds of livestock. This would be taken forward through the regional boards.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland through the promotion of traditional products grown and processed in Scotland. This would be taken forward through the regional boards.

This priority is considered to have the potential to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity by promoting products grown and produced in Scotland. This would be taken forward through the regional boards.

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland through the focus on quality Scottish grown food and forestry products

This priority is considered to have potential to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity as a result of the focus on quality Scottish grown food and forestry products.

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This priority is considered to provide an opportunity to recognise, value and enhance the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area of Scotland through the focus on the development of products which reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage of Scotland.

This priority is considered to have potential to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity through the focus on the development of products which reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage of Scotland.

Assessment of Theme One Priorities against the Strategic Environmental Assessment Resources and Waste Objectives

Theme One Priorities	Resources and waste Objectives (summary)
Maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuel in Rural Scotland	Minimise the volumes of waste generated and disposed of in Rural Scotland
a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place; providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way; supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms; encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and, supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing	0 This priority is considered to have little potential to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuels although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the provision of advice relating to these issues.	0 This priority is considered to have little potential to minimise the generation of waste although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the provision of advice relating to these issues.
b. Develop market focus by enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands; Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands; ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products; developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and, encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.	+ This priority is considered to have potential to maximise the effective use of non renewable resources through reducing the volumes of fossil fuel required for energy production and replacing them with renewable biofuels.	0 This priority is considered to have little potential to minimise the generation of waste as none of the priority actions focus on this issue.
c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and, increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland	0 This priority is considered to have little potential to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuels although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the consideration of the supply chain.	- This priority is considered to have little potential to minimise the generation of waste and the introduction of increased processing of Scottish products in Scotland could result in increased volumes of waste being produced. There may be some opportunity to influence this through the provision of advice relating to these issues.
d. Improve the performance of processors by investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.	0 This priority is considered to have little potential to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuels although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the consideration of the processing process.	0 This priority is considered to have little potential to minimise the generation of waste although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the consideration of the processing process
e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement; developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and, supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production	+ This priority is considered to have the potential to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuels through the targeting of environmental improvements (i.e. chemical and fuel store facilities) and the production of feedstock for renewable energy production (i.e. bio fuels) would reduce the amounts of non-renewable fuels being used for energy production.	+ This priority is considered to have the potential to minimise the generation of waste although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the consideration methods to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement such as the development of a waste management plan

Theme One Priorities

Resources and waste Objectives (summary)

Maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuel in Rural Scotland

Minimise the volumes of waste generated and disposed of in Rural Scotland

a. Enhance the competitive performance of producers by

supporting adaptation to the changing regime of support for the land-based sector and to more competition in the market place;
providing investment support, advice and training to businesses to help them meet the challenges facing this sector in a sustainable way;
supporting farmer groups, co-operation and knowledge sharing, including the use of monitor farms;
encouraging proactive animal health and welfare measures to reduce production costs; and,
supporting innovation and competitiveness in forestry, including co-operation, knowledge sharing and joint marketing

This priority is considered to have little potential to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuels although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the provision of advice relating to these issues.

This priority is considered to have little potential to minimise the generation of waste although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the provision of advice relating to these issues.

b. Develop market focus by

enabling businesses to respond effectively to changing demands;
Enhancing the Scottish reputation for quality food, drink and rural products, including the development of local/niche brands;
ensuring that the agri-food chain focuses on meeting the needs of the market for quality products;
developing product quality based on the traditional strengths of Scottish produce; and,
encouraging and supporting the development of biomass and markets for energy crops.

This priority is considered to have potential to maximise the effective use of non renewable resources through reducing the volumes of fossil fuel required for energy production and replacing them with renewable biofuels.

This priority is considered to have little potential to minimise the generation of waste as none of the priority actions focus on this issue.

c. Add value and improve supply chain linkages by

facilitating collaboration and integration across the supply chain to enable the agrifood sector to develop efficiently and effectively; and,
increasing the proportion of Scottish products that are processed in Scotland

This priority is considered to have little potential to minimise the generation of waste and the introduction of increased processing of Scottish products in Scotland could result in increased volumes of waste being produced. There may be some opportunity to influence this through the provision of advice relating to these issues.

d. Improve the performance of processors by

investing in the development of an efficient, innovative processing sector that is able to adapt quickly and provide quality Scottish-grown food and forestry products into the market place.

This priority is considered to have little potential to minimise the generation of waste although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the consideration of the processing process

e. Promote an environmentally sustainable industry by

targeting capital investment to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement;
developing products that reflect the high quality of the natural and cultural heritage; and,
supporting the production of feedstock for renewable energy production

This priority is considered to have the potential to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuels through the targeting of environmental improvements (i.e. chemical and fuel store facilities) and the production of feedstock for renewable energy production (i.e. bio fuels) would reduce the amounts of non-renewable fuels being used for energy production.

This priority is considered to have the potential to minimise the generation of waste although there may be some opportunity to influence this through the consideration methods to mitigate farm pollution and secure environmental improvement such as the development of a waste management plan

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Scotland Rural Development Programme 2007-2013

Appendix 2.1: Assessment of Theme 1 Priority Actions