People and the Environment

At our Centre for Mountain Studies, based at UHI Perth, an international group of scientists is undertaking research in Scotland, Europe, and at the global level. A major focus is on policies for sustainable mountain development, and providing the evidence base for these.  The centre hosts the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Mountain Development and its world-class research underpins the MSc Sustainable Mountain Development.

Based at UHI Inverness, the Institute for Biodiversity and Freshwater Conservation (formally the Rivers and Lochs Institute) works to develop integrated, multidisciplinary research projects to more rapidly advance understanding of Scottish freshwater ecosystem and to research the nature and extent of freshwater biodiversity in lochs and rivers in Scotland. We work with local rivers trusts, fisheries boards, landowners, industry and the public sector to provide scientific support to managers to protect and conserve biodiversity conservation and ensure its exploitation is sustainable.