Corporate Social Responsibility
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The Society TodayToday, more than two centuries on from its inception, the Society's original principle of advancement continues to drive its affairs. As the whole of rural Scotland faces the inevitable challenges of the 21st century, the Society will strive to promote and improve Scotland's agriculture and associated industries through events, education, awards and the development of its focal asset at Ingliston, Edinburgh.
Today, the Society provides medals for academic achievement to the Royal 'Dick' Vet School, the Glasgow University Veterinary School, the Scottish Agricultural College and to the University of Stirling Department of Aquaculture.
While responsibility for examinations leading to qualifications now rests with statutory bodies, the Society is the core supporter of the Royal highland Education Trust.
To promote the land-based and allied industries of Scotland and to create a wider public understanding of the management of the land and rural resources. The industries of rural Scotland are major contributors to the economy and character of our country. The land-based and allied industries are a major part of that rural economy. They produce much of our food and drink, manage and conserve our countryside and provide access to recreation for millions.
The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland stands squarely for the very best standards in agriculture, horticulture, forestry and other land-based industries. The land is a big part of our heritage. Good stewardship will ensure its future. The decisions we take today will determine the quality of business, cultural and social life of the next generations. Economic success with care for the environment has to be the norm.
Our flagship enterprise is the Royal Highland Show, Scotland's premier agricultural event. It is the biggest four-day single venue event held annually in Scotland with an attendance of over 160,000 visitors. Some 17,000 of those are visiting Scotland for business from over 60 countries. The Food & Drink at the Royal Highland Exhibition, Forestry and Countryside Areas, International Centre, Education Centre, Agri-Info Centre, Crafts Pavilions and Flower Show have recently been introduced or re-vitalised to good effect. With these features, plus 4,000 livestock, 1,000 trade stands and a variety of entertainment, the Royal Highland Show deserves its high reputation as a business event which also offers a great deal to the wider public.
Year-round, the Society provides substantial support for education in agriculture and allied subjects. [For more information see RHET] It recognises educational achievement in agriculture, veterinary science and aquaculture, administers awards for technical innovation, food excellence, the management of woods and forests, long service in agriculture and for ploughing. It administers a trust which provides funds for short-term study of subjects related to the land-based and allied industries. In partnership with other bodies it promotes field demonstrations and conferences.
Our success will be measured by the extent to which the land-based and allied industries sustain a healthy economy and employment, and the extent to which public opinion on rural matters is based on an informed judgement.
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