Banner photo: Ian Dow / ACT

When we first conceived the idea of setting up ACT over 10 years ago, I could not have predicted it would look anything like the organisation it is today. So I feel a tad hesitant to set out what ACT will do in the next ten years.  

There are, however, some golden threads that run through ACT’s work which have stood the test of time. These are certainties. Things ACT does well and will always need to do. You can find them woven into our projects, the stories we have shared in our 10 week countdown, and in our annual accounts and impact statements that will feature at the AGM. 

Peatland site visit to Dunlossit Estate, Islay by Rachel Keenan / ACT

Here are the four main threads;

Taking care of, and helping us all value, Argyll’s unique and wonderful natural environment

Argyll remains one of Scotland’s most biodiverse areas with a diverse mix of peatland, rainforest, mountains, and species rich coastal and marine habitats.  

There is so much to restore and connect in order to sustain our rural economies and the wealth and health of our communities. This will continue to be a core purpose for ACT.

 

Rainforest at Glenan Community Woodland by Ian Dow / ACT

To encourage investment in Argyll’s Natural Capital to support our economy

With such an abundance of natural riches all around us servicing our local, national and international economies, Argyll is now a highly attractive investment proposition. ACT can, and will, help to channel this investment to projects that have the highest integrity, with the highest benefits for nature and people, and in a way that is accountable and accessible to everyone who should have a stake in it.

 

MAKI Pups Outdoor Nursery by Rachel Keenan / ACT

To give people opportunities to experience, learn in, and be inspired by nature

They say, When in Rome, do as the Romans do!  Well, when in Argyll, we use our wonderful natural environment as outdoor classrooms, natural galleries and places to restore our mental and physical health.  ACT has developed a growing number of ways to help people do this.  We look forward to seeing the wonder on many more faces as we grow and expand our services.

 

ACT's growing rainforest team by Philippa McKee / ACT

To increase opportunities for employment, skills development and volunteering in our environment

Who could have predicted that ACT would be employing 34 people within 10 years of its creation?  How many more jobs might we generate from growing Argyll’s green economy in the next 10 years?  The potential is huge.  But not just for ACT.  Through our skills development and volunteer programmes, we will help many more people of all ages acquire the skills and confidence to support other Argyll based organisations and businesses as they adapt to a changing environment, and benefit from the new industries this creates.

These are powerful actions each in their own right. Just think what we can achieve by weaving them all together!

In a nutshell, ACT will be investing in Argyll’s nature and people for our sustainable future.  

This is no longer just a worthy or nice thing to do. There has never been a more important time for this role, amidst regional and national economic and social pressures, together with existential threats of biodiversity loss and climate change.

 

Flood damage in Arrochar by Rachel Keenan / ACT

ACT has emerged as an effective facilitator between communities, businesses and agencies to secure widespread and just returns from investment in our area’s natural capital. 

We are a trusted partner with a proven track record of successful project management with a highly skilled and effective team, robust governance and financial processes.

Together, we will be looking to grow the investments in a better future for Argyll’s nature and for everyone who depends upon it.  I just hope I can continue to be around for the next ten years to witness the weaving of the next phase of ACT’s golden tapestry.