This group has initiated, and developed, a number of environmentally beneficial schemes, these include:
- Planting an avenue of beech and hawthorn at the main entrance to the village from Aboyne.
- Creation of a path network, which is maintained by local volunteers in partnership with UDAT.
- Organised LANDFULL, an artistic installation set up in a local shop which was closing down. The installation was created from materials
recovered from an abandoned house 'midden' in the Tarland area and graphically demonstrated the slow pace of decay in a landfill situation.
This was allied to video of the major landfill site near Banchory plus other examples of more recent, durable waste streams, particularly
plastics. Seminars organised as part of the event assisted in raising awareness of the problems presented by waste generation and disposal.
- Planning permission obtained to develop a 1500m3 wetland area where a variety of flora and fauna can be safely observed, this will also
contribute to local flood control.
- Established a village group to examine composting schemes which could be implemented to benefit Tarland and the surrounding area.
In addition to the efforts made by individuals, groups and communities, all the projects have been made possible, or assisted by, a variety of
funding bodies, should details of these be required, we can provide details of the appropriate contact.
Established Tarland Community Composting, as a follow-on from their 2003 award.
This project now provides a fortnightly garden waste collection to households in the village of Tarland. The waste is then composted at a local site,
thereafter being distributed locally for horticultural purposes. Previously, much of this waste was driven by individuals to the landfill site
in Banchory. Residents of Tarland now have a more environmentally sound option for managing their excess garden waste. The project recruited 70
members in its first year, has involved 25+ volunteers and is now well established.
Thomas Tait & Sons - 1992 (Green Gordon Award)
A large company that have recognised their responsibility to the local environment by installing high tech. efficient plant at the Inverurie works
that will help to control pollution in the River Don.
Tilhill Economic Forestry - Newseat Community Woodland - 1995 (Green Gordon Award)
On an area of farmland owned by Mr. J. Sorrie, Tilhill have created a fine area of woodland, the site is accessible to all, including wheelchair
users. By designing the Rotogate wheelchair users gain access whilst keeping farm animals out.
Tough Primary School - 2002
Fuel economy marathon. Obtained sponsorship, developed concept design, participated in construction and entered a vehicle. Main construction material
was aluminium recycled from a Ramsay loft ladder, as far as possible recycled components were used in the propulsion and braking system. Pupils
formed a 'business unit' committee to raise sponsorship, monitor finance and conduct interviews. Ferrari were approached but unable to provide a
suitable power unit. Other environmental activities include school grounds vegetable garden, recycling computer ink cartridges.
Pupils and Staff of Turriff Academy - 2007
In recognition of works undertaken by pupils and staff to reduce waste and conserve power in the operation of Turriff Academy in an ECO Schools plan
directed towards achieving a Green Flag Award.
Tyrie Primary School - 2008
Plans of action already fulfilled include - recycling centre for village/surrounding area set up in playground - eco community garden created
featuring extensive hedging and tree planting by pupils, staff, parents and community residents - bird feeding station set up with ongoing supply of
bird food made by pupils through winter season - insect box installed - compost bin established and in use - eco-school newsletter edited by pupils
re local environmental issues distributed to parents and local residents.
The extent to which the local community has been engaged in developing and achieving works undertaken to date is impressive and this in turn has
raised local environmental awareness and pride in the area. While much of the effort has obviously developed from the eco schools programme, the
community education and participation elements make this a project worthy of an award
Ugie Wetland Project - 1999
The Ugie Wetland Project is an excellent example of how agencies and landowners/farmers can work together and protect and enhance the countryside of
Aberdeenshire. The project aimed to demonstrate how to make more efficient use of fertilisers and manures and minimise losses to watercourses by
promoting nutrient budgets on the farm. It also aimed to demonstrate sound watercourse and wetland management through the take up of the SERAD
Countryside Premium Scheme. This scheme provides grant aid for a number of conservation measures including the establishment of uncultivated buffer
strips next to rivers, burns and ditches on the farm. The project was handled in a sensitive and consultative way, ensuring that all parties were
involved, to maximise the benefits of the project. It has provided a good basis for other river/riparian initiatives to work from.
return to top