Below are some of our recently updated projects. Visit the Publications Library for access to all of our research publications.
Or read more about our areas of expertise or the challenge we work on.
- with the policy challange: Land use
Methane-reducing feed additives
In 2018, agriculture was responsible for 18% of Scotland’s total GHG emissions. More than half of this was attributed to methane, mostly from digestion of feed by cattle and sheep. This summary of a rapid evidence assessment examines feed additives developed to reduce these emissions.
Marginal abatement cost curve for Scottish agriculture
Updated estimates of the mitigation potential and the cost-effectiveness of four farm technologies and practices which can reduce GHG emissions in Scotland.
The potential for leguminous crops in Scotland
Assessing the potential production of grain and forage legumes, such as beans, peas, lucerne and clover, in Scotland. These crops can help fix atmospheric nitrogen, potentially reducing the need for synthetic fertiliser.
Perennial energy crops and their potential in Scotland: evidence review
This report examines the potential for a sustainable expansion of perennial bioenergy crop production on low-grade agricultural land or underutilised land, focusing on short rotation coppice, miscanthus and short rotation forestry.
Topsoil organic matter comparison tool
CXC commissioned the James Hutton Institute to develop a free, easy-to-use tool for land managers to enable them to compare the measured organic matter and carbon content of their topsoil to typical values for Scotland.
Measuring the vulnerability of Scottish soils to a changing climate
This study identifies the indicators which could support the monitoring of Scotland's soil health and measure the vulnerability of Scottish soils to climate change in future.
Land Suitability for Woodland Expansion in Scotland: update 2020
This short study updates an earlier analysis of the available land area that might be suitable for planting new woodlands. It finds the amount has increased by 10% to an estimated 2.96 million hectares.
Establishing a manure/slurry exchange in Scotland
A feasibility study into whether manure/slurry exchanges could be an effective tool in helping cut greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.
Efficacy of nitrogen and urease inhibitors in Scotland - an evidence review
This evidence review considers the potential for nitrogen and urease inhibitors to support greenhouse gas emission reductions from fertiliser in Scotland.
Diversifying conifers in productive forests: stakeholders’ perspectives
This report considers the implications of a shift in forest management through the lens of species diversity.
Alternatives to horticultural peat in Scotland
A Rapid Evidence Assessment of the role of peat in UK growing media and the potential for alternatives.
Snow Cover and Climate Change in the Cairngorms National Park
Identifying trends for snow cover days in the Cairngorms National Park based historic temperature and precipitation data, observed snow cover days and climate projections.