edinburgh pollinator pledge spatially targeted … study...for more information, contact: ian...

For more information, contact: Ian Mackenzie,imackenzie@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk

Edinburgh pollinator pledgeSpatially targeted campaign to co-ordinate community action.

Joining up nature in practice -

making ecological coherence a reality

ChallengeImprove habitat quality by improving:• Nativeness - encourage native species and

discourage non-native invasive species• Habitat complexity - encourage vertical and

horizontal complexity to maximise the number of niches available

• Connectivity – encourage physical and functional connections between habitat patches

Engage more people with their naturalenvironment by:• Harnessing community action • Allowing individuals to take action• Targeting specific areas of need

Output

MethodsBased on the results of habitat suitability models a pledge is being developed to target specific areas to improve connectivity and create high quality habitats for pollinators.

Habitat Suitability Models (HSM)Statistical tools relate the known species occurrences to the underlying environmental conditions, this enables predictions on habitat suitability at a landscape scale.

10,000 gardening pledgesA gardening pledge gives a measurable target and mechanism for people to get involved and report progress. It allows individuals to take action and to join up the dots.

What are the benefits?• Specific pinch points can be targeted• Scarce resources can be allocated where they

will have the greatest impact• People involved can see how their actions fit

into the puzzle

Aim of the project: A spatially targeted wildlife gardening pledge is being developed to improve habitat connectivity whilst engaging more people with their natural environment

Hot spotsImprove habitats

Pinch pointCreate habitats

Habitat Suitability Model (HSM) based on preliminary data provided by TWIC (Hoverfly example)

Habitat Suitability Models are being used to identify potential target zones.

These can be categorised as hotspots and pinch points.

The pledges taken in these different zones will reflect the needs of these areas.

Target zones can be linked to postcodes. Local engagement will identify supporters within these areas and communicate actions they can take.

What next?• Improving models with vegetation and species

data• Designing materials for pledge• Launch interactive website• Rolling out targeted pledge

Edinburgh Living Landscape is creating habitats for pollinators across the city.