Sandside South
Highland
Added on 18/12/2024
Overview
Description
The Sandside South peatland restoration project, near Reay, Thurso, is transforming 337 hectares of degraded blanket bog into a thriving carbon sink. With peat depths averaging 2 metres and exceeding 5 metres in places, the site’s dramatic and remote landscape is undergoing significant recovery. Located within the East Halladale SSSI, Caithness and Sutherland Peatlands SAC, SPA, RAMSAR, and the East Halladale Flows Wild Land Area, it provides critical habitats for golden eagles, hen harriers, and ground-nesting birds. Restoration includes blocking artificial drains, stabilising erosion features, and raising the water table to halt peat loss and encourage sphagnum moss growth. These interventions not only protect Scotland’s biodiversity but also align with the UK Government’s principles for voluntary carbon and nature market integrity. Sandside South’s restoration supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by combating climate change (SDG 13), conserving biodiversity (SDG 15), and promoting sustainable ecosystems. This project not only combats climate change but also preserves biodiversity and Scotland’s natural heritage in a dramatic and remote part of the country.
Location
Scotland
Area characteristics:
Total Forecast Emission Reduction:
48,345 tCO2e
| Verification year | Number of units (tCO2e) | Unit type | Validation and Verification Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 2030 | 2,417 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2040 | 4,834 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2050 | 4,835 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2060 | 4,835 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2070 | 4,834 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2080 | 4,835 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2090 | 4,834 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2100 | 4,834 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2110 | 4,834 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2120 | 4,835 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
| February 2125 | 2,418 | Pending Issuance Units (PIUs) | Soil Association |
Sandside South
Diggers on the ground
Scale: 337 hectares
Forecast Emission Reduction:
48,345 tCO2e
48,345 tCO2e