A Path to Biodiversity and Community Growth
Welcome to The Conservation Volunteers’ exciting new project along the John Muir Way, a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the biodiversity of this iconic Scottish trail. With the fantastic support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, we are upskilling dedicated trainees in wildlife conservation to bridge the green skills shortage and address the skills gap in the region.
The John Muir footpath passes within ten miles of half the population of Scotland. It’s a nature corridor on the literal doorstep of the very people that need it most. But it needs our help.
Empowering Communities, Enriching Nature
Our mission is to improve the prospects of local communities by providing access to high-quality green spaces, fostering learning and skills development in flora and fauna, and combating invasive species. This project not only tackles unemployment by equipping trainees with valuable green skills but also contributes to the fight against climate change through the planting of trees and hedges along the route.
Over three years, we will employ 72 local, economically inactive individuals in three 10-month environmental traineeships across four Local Authority areas, including sections of the Forth and Clyde Canal.
Our trainees will receive hands-on learning and accredited training in wildlife conservation, habitat management, and employability skills, supported by Local Authority and Scottish Canals Outdoor Access Teams, Biodiversity Officers, and Employability Leads.
What we want to ensure is that areas of deprivation have equality in terms of access to quality green space, to biodiversity and also the health and wellbeing opportunities that go alongside.
David Alcorn, TCV Operations Leader
Why Now?
The urgency of this project is underscored by the Scottish Government’s Biodiversity Strategy, which calls for immediate and transformative action to address the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. Our interventions will restore habitats, connect fragmented green corridors, and increase pollinators and other key species along the John Muir Way. This project aligns with national priorities and supports the Scottish Government’s commitment to a nature-rich, low-carbon future.
Who Will Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this project will be individuals from the most deprived areas, including those with barriers to employment such as care experience, disabilities, and poor mental and physical health. By providing good quality, flexible, and accessible work-based learning, we aim to equip these individuals with green skills and create effective pathways into green jobs. The project will also benefit local communities by improving the John Muir Way for nature connection and active travel, addressing the needs of people living in proximity to this important route.
Environmental Impact
Our biodiversity enhancement efforts will improve soil health and carbon capture by increasing the quantity and diversity of plant species. Planting diverse species and allowing natural regeneration will be essential for carbon capture, reducing traffic noise, and providing a green corridor for wildlife. Additionally, trainees will learn to make bird, bug, and bat boxes from recycled materials, contributing to the sustainability of the project.
TCV Green Skills John Muir Way will align with TCV’s environmental policy commitments, including achieving net zero carbon emissions, sustainable purchasing, waste reduction, and pollution minimization. By investing in green skills development and improving paths for active travel, we support Scotland’s ambition to become a net-zero society by 2045.
The Story Map
An up-to-date Story map will be available soon.
Keep track of our trainees’ progress with the TCV Green Skills Story Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to Get Involved?
Join us in creating a vibrant, biodiverse environment that brings communities together, supports the Scottish environment, and paves the way for a sustainable future. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the John Muir Way and beyond.
Edinburgh – matt.orwin@tcv.org.uk
Falkirk East – lizzy.turner@tcv.org.uk
Falkirk West (working with Scottish Canals) – john.woods@tcv.org.uk
East Dunbartonshire – daniel.mcewan@tcv.org.uk
Thank You to Our Fantastic Supporters and Partners
