Agriculture

Around 75% of Scotland’s land area is used for agriculture – that’s over 5.5 million hectares. Approximately 80% of this is used as grassland for rearing livestock. The remainder is mostly used for arable farming, with the most productive land located in the east.

Scotland has an excellent reputation for producing high quality food. However, agriculture is about much more than this. Modern farming activities have a significant influence on the landscape, on the quality of the wider environment, and on the diversity of habitats. In most cases – and this is largely due to the work of farmers – this influence is positive. However, where agriculture has the potential to impact negatively on the environment, SEPA must enforce a number of environmental regulations.

This section is designed to offer information and guidance to farmers, to those interested in farming activities and to help promote sustainable agriculture in Scotland.