“Aberdeen Nectar Networks”, a new Buglife Scotland partnership project restoring up to eight hectares of wildflower-rich habitat across the city, is set to create a buzz for local pollinators and communities, expanding on the work of previous projects in the area.
In March of this year, we proudly concluded the ambitious Aberdeen B-Lines project, delivered in partnership with Aberdeen City Council to enhance, restore, and create pollinator-friendly habitats throughout the city. From vibrant flower-rich grasslands, nectar-rich bulb planting and the installation of solitary bee nesting sites, the project transformed over 12 hectares into thriving sanctuaries for pollinators.
Now, building on this incredible momentum, we are thrilled to announce the launch of a brand-new local project: Aberdeen Nectar Networks. This exciting follow-on project is continuing the mission to protect and expand pollinator habitats, again in collaboration with Aberdeen City Council. Joining the effort are new partners – Cove Woodland Trust, Robert Gordon University, and NHS Grampian – who will help deliver habitat enhancements across a broader range of local sites. Together, they hope to increase landscape connectivity for some of our most important insects, whilst improving greenspaces for public wellbeing.
Aberdeen Nectar Networks marks the next chapter in the city’s journey toward a greener, more pollinator-friendly future; connecting communities, greenspaces, and promoting biodiversity within the urban landscape.
Nancy Kennils, Sustainability Manager for Robert Gordon University, commented: “Robert Gordon University is thrilled to be part of the Nectar Networks project and to dedicate sections of our nature positive campus to pollinator habitats. The partnership with Buglife is a great inclusion in our drive to increase nature wild spaces, develop garden spaces, increase biodiversity and protect a range of species.”
Leanna Fernandez, Conservation Officer at Buglife Scotland, shared: “Having the opportunity to raise awareness of the benefits nature-rich greenspaces can bring, not only for local wildlife but for our own mental wellbeing, is a true privilege. With the collaborative forces of Buglife and Aberdeen Nectar Networks partners combined, we can give pollinators a helping hand and inspire others to do the same.”
Zachery Brown, Vice Chair for Cove Woodland Trust, added: “Cove Woodland Trust are delighted to have worked with Aberdeen Nectar Networks at our community woodland in Cove, Aberdeen. We’re hoping that through new wildflower areas we can help promote a greater variety of wildlife, making it somewhere the local community can experience and explore nature on their doorstep.”
“Aberdeen Nectar Networks” is supported by the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot in addition to funding from the Hugh Fraser Foundation, J & JR Wilson Trust, Nimar Charitable Trust and Milkywire.
Main Image Credit: Volunteers sowing wildflower seeds across sites at RGU campus
© Becca Petrie