Cheers to the Future: Helping To Restore Arran's Peatland
We’re proud to share an exciting project that reflects our commitment to a sustainable future at Lagg Distillery. Partnering with Dougarie Estate, we’re working to restore 325 hectares of damaged peatland on the Isle of Arran. This initiative is a key part of the Island’s ambitious net-zero strategy and an important milestone for us as a distillery.
Facilitated by the leading peatland restoration consultancy, Caledonian Climate, and specialist contractor Angus Estate Plant, this restoration project is primarily funded by Peatland ACTION. The work, which began in November 2024 and will continue through February 2025, is expected to reduce emissions by over 16,500 tCO2e over the next 55 years.
An Evolving Relationship
As whisky makers, we recognise the deep connection between our craft and Scotland’s peatlands. Historically, peat was cut and burned to give peated whisky its distinctive smoky flavour. However, with growing awareness of the environmental impact of peat extraction, the industry is shifting toward sustainable practices.
Healthy peatlands are powerful carbon sinks, sequestering an estimated 510kg of CO2 per hectare annually. They also create unique habitats for a variety of species, many of which are rare or in decline. Restoring these vital ecosystems is essential for Scotland to meet its net-zero targets by 2045.
A Restorative Process
The restoration work at Dougarie Estate focuses on returning the damaged peatland to its natural bog-like state. This involves drain blocking, hagg reprofiling, and gully relandscaping, creating an environment where biodiversity can thrive.
Dougarie Estate and Peatland ACTION have taken the lead in funding the capital works, showcasing the commitment of both the Scottish Government and local stakeholders to reducing emissions and tackling climate change.
Jamie Gibbs, Owner of Dougarie Estate, shared:
“Dougarie Estate is delighted to be working with Lagg Distillery to restore peatland in North Arran’s National Scenic Area. The capital works have already started, supported by Peatland ACTION, with the aim of the first stage being completed by February 2025.
“Our hope is that this project will significantly reduce carbon emissions on the Isle of Arran and add value to the local environment over many years.”
Ongoing Commitments
As a distillery, we’re not just contributing to the restoration itself. We’ve committed to funding the monitoring of the site for the first five years after the work is completed. These early years are critical to ensuring the long-term success of the project.
Caledonian Climate will oversee ongoing monitoring and maintenance, conducting regular reviews of the site’s biodiversity levels and water quality. This effort will help us measure the broader benefits of the restoration for Arran’s ecosystem.
Graham Omand, our Distillery Manager, said:
“Lagg Distillery is committed to helping shape a greener future for all, with the goal of becoming net-zero by 2040.
“We’re proud to be part of this pioneering peatland restoration project, which will restore wildlife and habitats, enhance water quality for local people, and significantly reduce carbon emissions over the project’s lifespan.
“This is just one of the many measures we’ve taken, as part of Isle of Arran Distillers, to improve our carbon impact and environmental strategy. Our team is excited to learn more about the restoration process and witness the positive impact this work will have.”
Freddie Ingleby, Managing Director of Caledonian Climate, added:
“Healthy peatlands pose a remarkable, natural solution to reducing global carbon emissions.
“It is incredibly reassuring to see businesses like Lagg Distillery and Dougarie Estate invest in the long-term recovery of nature to tackle climate change and boost local biodiversity. We hope the positive impact of this work will inspire others to follow suit. It’s only with greater private investment that we can achieve large-scale peatland restoration.”
We’re thrilled to be part of this transformative project and look forward to the benefits it will bring to our Island and beyond. Cheers to a greener future!
We're passionate about creating a sustainable future for the next generation of whisky-makers, but did you know that the Isle of Arran has a rich history of illicit distilling in the very earliest days of Scotch whisky? Visit us for our Arran Water tour to learn more.