The Spey Catchment Initiative is thrilled to announce its partnership with Chivas Brothers as part of the new sustainability programme, “The River Within“. This initiative seeks to enhance the ecological health of Scotland’s rivers and waterways, with a special focus on preserving the Spey Catchment area.
A Commitment to Scotland’s Rivers
Chivas Brothers, renowned for its premium Scotch whisky brands such as The Glenlivet and Aberlour, has unveiled a long-term programme dedicated to the protection and enhancement of Scotland’s iconic waterways. This initiative comes as part of Chivas Brothers’ broader commitment to sustainable water stewardship, recognising the crucial role that healthy rivers play in whisky production and biodiversity.
About “The River Within” Partnership
The partnership unites Chivas Brothers with three esteemed River Trusts:
- The Spey Catchment Initiative
- The Findhorn, Nairn, and Lossie Rivers Trust
- The Deveron, Bogie, and Isla Rivers Charitable Trust
Together, they will address critical environmental challenges facing Scotland’s rivers. Key objectives include:
- Enhancing Biodiversity: Implementing projects to improve habitats for native wildlife, including the endangered Atlantic Salmon.
- Mitigating Climate Change Effects: Developing strategies to limit rising water temperatures and combat the increasing frequency of droughts and floods.
- Strengthening River Resilience: Initiatives aimed at long-term river health, ensuring these waterways continue to support Scotland’s ecosystems and industries.
Roger Knight, Chief Executive of Spey Catchment Initiative, Comments:
“We are delighted to join forces with Chivas Brothers in this groundbreaking partnership. ‘The River Within’ represents a significant step towards safeguarding the vitality of the Spey catchment’s rivers, which are essential for both our native wildlife and the local communities.”
Knight added, “Through targeted projects, we aim to enhance biodiversity, address climate change impacts, and secure the future resilience of our rivers.”
Initiatives and Future Projects
Specific projects under “The River Within” are being developed in collaboration with the three River Trusts, set to begin later this year. These projects will involve:
- Riparian Planting: Planting trees along riverbanks to provide shade, reduce temperature rises, and stabilize riverbanks.
- Habitat Restoration: Creating refuge areas and improving fish passage to support native fish populations.
- Educational Outreach: Raising public awareness about conservation and river health.
Importance of Water Stewardship
Julie Gallacher, Head of Sustainability & Responsibility at Chivas Brothers, emphasized the critical link between Scotland’s rivers and whisky production:
“Scotland’s waterways are the lifeblood of whisky production. We return 96% of the water used back to its source and aim to protect these vital resources for future generations.”
About Spey Catchment Initiative
The Spey Catchment Initiative is dedicated to fostering a sustainable and thriving natural environment across the Spey Catchment area. The Initiative’s projects aim to balance ecological health with community needs, promoting resilience against climate change.
For more information about the Spey Catchment Initiative and its projects, please visit www.speycatchment.org.
