±«Óãtv

Opening welcome: Via video link from London

10:00-10:15

We’ll kick off the day with a film from ±«Óãtv Climate Editor, Justin Rowlatt, and special guests (Artist and Activist), (Founder and Director of Programmes of the Schumacher College, International Centre for Ecological Studies) and (Co-owner of Knepp Estate/rewilding project and author of Wilding), all giving the lowdown on nature and insights into the creative potential of collaborating with it. 

Creative keynote: Via video link from London

10:15-10:45

Keynote creative interview with  (±«Óãtv Chief Content Officer and Sponsor) and special guest,  (wildlife cameraman, photographer and presenter). 

What can Scottish nature teach us?

11:00 – 12:00

Panel discussion from Glasgow

• Tony Craig, Head of the Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences,
• Ivan Clark, Nature-based Jobs, and Skills Manager,
• Judith Ralston, ±«Óãtv Scotland

In a session focused on Scotland, The James Hutton Institute and NatureScot will explore how nature can address challenges related to wellbeing, urban environments, and climate change.

Tony Craig from The James Hutton Institute will present research highlighting the benefits of connecting with nature, particularly its positive effects on mental health and the psychological mechanisms involved. He will discuss how to incorporate these insights into daily life.

Ivan Clark from NatureScot will discuss nature-based solutions for urban areas, emphasizing how natural processes can help cities adapt to climate change and combat biodiversity loss. He will outline the multiple advantages of these solutions, such as enhancing community connections, supporting wildlife habitats, managing floods, and improving urban liveability. 

Followed by audience Q&A.

Our creative space for nature: Biodiversity on

12:10-13:10

Panel discussion from Glasgow

• Kirstie Shirra, Sustainability Consultant,
• Laura Mitchell, Series Producer, ±«Óãtv Landward
• Dougie Vipond, Presenter, ±«Óãtv Landward
• Marion Maclean, Production Manager,
• Judith Ralston, ±«Óãtv Scotland

Kirstie Shirra, chair of BAFTA albert’s Biodiversity Working Group, has developed a Biodiversity Guide for Productions to help the industry make positive impacts on the natural world. She emphasizes that declining biodiversity increases vulnerability to climate shocks, while healthy ecosystems can aid carbon storage. By encouraging productions to consider their biodiversity impacts, she sees an opportunity to support nature recovery and achieve climate goals, regardless of genre.

±«Óãtv Scotland’s Landward, produced for nearly fifty years, highlights Scotland’s nature and countryside, covering both rural and urban intersections. Series Producer Laura Mitchell and Presenter Dougie Vipond have documented the effects of climate change and biodiversity decline, showcasing innovative local approaches to biodiversity recovery.

Mactv, the largest independent production company in the Highlands and Islands, creates content for various broadcasters, including ±«Óãtv ALBA. Marion Maclean will discuss the lessons learned and the nuances of storytelling about Scotland’s nature and biodiversity through their popular shows. 

Followed by audience Q&A.