Integrating Environmental Conservation and Cultural Values in Peatland

A Literature Review of World Heritage Designation and the Scottish Whisky Industry

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between peatland conservation, World Heritage designation, and the whisky industry in Scotland through literature review. Analysis of 1,332 papers revealed a significant increase in peatland conservation research since 2020, particularly during the year of Flow Country's World Heritage designation in 2024. While conservation and whisky industry research have been developing independently, studies integrating cultural landscape perspectives remain limited. This study highlights the necessity of understanding peatland conservation not just as an environmental issue, but also from the perspective of preserving cultural landscapes that encompass regional identity and traditional industries.