The last five years have been a period of challenge and transition for all of us, characterised by growing awareness of the threats posed by climate change and biodiversity loss, and of the fundamental connections between the natural world and human health and wellbeing. Plants are a fundamental component of our functioning planet, and plant-related research, conservation and education are therefore essential to humanity’s future.

With a 350-year history of biodiversity science and training, and internationally-renowned living and preserved collections, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a world-leading botanical institute taking positive action for plants and people; from local communities across Scotland, to more than 40 countries around the world.

The book Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Impact illustrates our range of impacts over the past five years, from baseline biodiversity research to ground-breaking conservation action, from early years education to expert professional tuition, and from excellence in horticultural display to innovation in creative programming.

Looking forward, our plans are ambitious and innovative. These include the Edinburgh Biomes regeneration programme; improvements in access, inclusion and equity; expanded learning and engagement programmes, and continued action to restore biodiversity, mitigate climate change and support sustainable livelihoods.

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is in a strong position to continue to excel.

Dominic Fry, Chair, Board of Trustees
Simon Milne, Regius Keeper November 2021