Local Nature Networks

We’re launching a new citywide programme called Local Nature Networks (LNN) to support communities across Edinburgh to take practical action for nature, climate resilience and greener neighbourhoods.

The programme responds to the climate and nature emergencies and supports Edinburgh’s wider ambition to become one of the most sustainable cities in Europe by 2050. It builds on existing work across the city, including the Edinburgh Nature Network, local greenspace projects and community-led climate initiatives.

Local Nature Networks will help bring together communities, local organisations and public sector partners to identify opportunities to improve biodiversity, strengthen ecological connections between green spaces and support healthier, more resilient neighbourhoods.

What will Local Nature Networks do?

Each Local Nature Network area will:

bring together existing local knowledge, plans and community ideas
identify opportunities for habitat creation, biodiversity improvements and greener connections between spaces
support volunteering, citizen science and hands-on conservation activities
help communities develop local action plans and future project ideas
provide small community micro-grants for local nature projects such as planting and habitat improvements

The programme is designed to build on work already happening locally and reduce duplication and consultation fatigue wherever possible.

As part of the process, each area will develop a neighbourhood-scale map and action plan identifying opportunities for nature restoration and ecological connectivity. These local action plans will help guide future funding bids, partnership working and longer-term investment in local green spaces and nature projects.

Where is the programme starting?

The programme will begin with pilot projects in Leith and Portobello. Community engagement activity will take place during the spring and summer, led by local anchor organisations working alongside Council officers and partners. In Leith, engagement will be supported by The Citadel, while Porty Community Energy will lead activity in Portobello. The pilot phase will help test and shape the approach before any future rollout to other parts of Edinburgh.

Get involved

We’d love to hear from local residents, community groups, schools, volunteers and organisations who are interested in nature, climate action and improving local green spaces. You can get involved by:

sharing local knowledge, ideas or existing projects
taking part in engagement activities and events
volunteering or supporting community nature activities
suggesting opportunities for greening, habitat creation or biodiversity improvements

We’d also welcome people who would like to help run or support community activities over the summer – for example, nature walks, wildlife activities, practical conservation sessions or creative workshops connected to local nature and green spaces.

What happens next?

This is an early-stage pilot programme, so physical changes on the ground will take time. The first phase focuses on listening, gathering information and working with communities to identify priorities and opportunities. Over time, the programme aims to support a growing pipeline of nature projects across Edinburgh and help connect local action into a wider citywide nature network.

For more information or to get involved, please contact: thrivinggreenspaces@edinburgh.gov.uk