Research Themes
The Centre for Mountain Studies has four core themes
Land and Communities
Land and Communities
CMS has a long history of research that considers the relationship between rural communities and the natural environment. We have a strong focus on the key issues and challenges facing Scotland’s uplands. Our research is often characterised by a holistic socio-ecological approach that considers lowland and marine environments in addition to mountain areas.
Areas of focus include the following:
Land use: Integrated land use, Deer management, Woodland and forestry management, Crofting
Land ownership: Community ownership of land and other assets, Carbon markets, communities and the ‘just transition’ to net-zero
Current projects:
Global Mountain Sustainability
Global Mountain Sustainability
CMS is an outward looking research centre with a long history and interest in contributing to globally relevant research, discussion and knowledge exchange in sustainable mountain development in the international context.
The MSc Sustainable Mountain Development has a global scope and has been a core activity since 2004. The course attracts a diverse student cohort each year who have a desire to study a mountain degree online and who are often living and working in mountain areas in different parts of the world.
CMS is well connected with international networks and partners including Euromontana and the Network for European Mountain Research.
Current activities include:
Upland Culture
Upland Culture
Culture and cultural heritage underpin landscape and land use, influencing stakeholder values, land use, decision making and vision for the future. Upland and mountain areas have special and unique cultural value.
Culture is an important aspect of many research projects conducted at CMS. In particular, research has been conducted on the cultural values of ecosystems and cultural ecosystem services. Cultural heritage underpins tourism activity in mountain areas and has a considerable influence on community identity and development.
Current projects:
Healthy Ecosystems
Healthy Ecosystems
CMS research focuses on ecology, society and their interactions, particularly in mountain environments. Healthy ecosystems are essential for sustainable management and mountain environments encompass diverse interconnected habitats - from summit to sea. All are under pressure from human development and land use. Our research focuses on applied practical problems and solutions that seek to benefit nature and people.
Current Projects: