Scotland’s Path to Sustainable Productivity: Scotland Prepares for the 2026 Enhanced Greening Requirements
Scotland’s agricultural sector is preparing for substantial changes as Scottish Government introduce revised greening rules, coming fully into effect on 1 January 2026. These updates mark an important step toward strengthening environmental sustainability whilst recognising the crucial role Scottish farmers play in managing the nation’s land. The new framework seeks to balance agricultural productivity with enhanced ecological responsibility. At a time when farming is often scrutinised for its environmental footprint, Scottish farmers continue to demonstrate leadership and innovation in adopting practices that support biodiversity, protect soils, and build climate resilience. The 2026 measures aim to expand habitats for wildlife, increase carbon sequestration, and reduce soil erosion — ensuring that Scotland’s landscapes remain productive and environmentally robust for generations to come.
Key Threshold Change
One of the most significant updates is the change to eligibility thresholds. Any farmer or crofter with more than 15 hectares of arable land (including temporary grass) will now be required to manage 5% of that area as Ecological Focus Areas (EFAs). The only exemption applies to holdings that are fully organic or in organic conversion.
This adjustment aims to ensure a greater share of Scotland’s farmland contributes to environmental goals. While this will require adaptation for many businesses, it also presents opportunities for improved soil function, enhanced habitat creation, and long-term sustainability
Updated EFA Options for 2026
EFA Fallow (EFAFAL) - Weighting 1.0
Revised EFAFAL rules focus on maximising environmental value. Farmers must now establish a diverse grass sward (containing at least 3 flowering species), wildflower mixture, wild bird seed mix, or a soil-conditioning crop. As with previous guidance, no crop production or grazing is permitted between 15 January and 15 June.
Although this requires active management, the ecological gains from supporting pollinators to improving soil structure are substantial.
EFA Margins (EFAM) – Weighting 1.5
Field margins continue to play a vital role as ecological corridors. Farmers are now required to create margins 3–20 metres wide, established with a wildflower mix, wild bird seed mix, or diverse grass sward (containing pollinating species).
These margins strengthen biodiversity, support beneficial insects, and improve landscape resilience while contributing meaningfully to farm sustainability.
EFA Catch Crops (EFACC) – Weighting 0.3
Catch crops remain a core soil-protection measure, now with expanded scope. Undersowing is permitted not only with cereals but also with oilseed rape and maize, using either a diverse grass sward or a legume.
This helps reduce nutrient losses, improve soil organic matter, and potentially lower fertiliser input in future rotations.
EFA Green Cover (EFAGC) – Weighting 0.3
Green cover must now be established by 1 November and maintained until 31 December. Crucially, grazing is now permitted before 31 December, giving farmers greater management flexibility.
New qualifying species include several clover species, forage rape, kale, and stubble turnips, offering practical soil-protective options that integrate well with livestock systems.
Nitrogen-Fixing Crops (EFA-NFIX) – Weighting 1.0
NFIX maintains a strong emphasis on nitrogen-fixing species such as beans, peas, and clover, which naturally reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers. Integrating these crops supports healthier soils while contributing positively to farm economics and environmental outcomes.
EFA Legume and Herb-Rich Pastures (EFAHLRP) – Weighting 1.5
One of the major new introductions for 2026, this scheme supports the establishment of legume and herb-rich pastures through overseeding or reseeding with at least three legumes or herbs (with at least one of the three having to be a legume).
These swards reduce fertiliser and herbicide requirements, enhance pollinator habitat, and improve soil structure — aligning perfectly with holistic, nature-positive grassland management.
DLF: Supporting Scotland’s Merchants & Farmers Through the 2026 Transition
With 2026 approaching, early preparation is essential. DLF is committed to supporting Scottish farmers and merchants as they adapt to the Enhanced Greening Scheme. Our goal is to provide:
- Expert guidance on meeting EFA obligations
- Tailored mixture development suited to Scottish soils, climates, and system requirements
- Reliable technical support from planning to establishment and ongoing management.
DLF’s research-driven approach ensures that farmers can not only meet regulatory expectations but also enhance productivity, improve soil health, and strengthen long-term resilience.
By working together, Scotland’s agricultural community can turn the 2026 changes into a positive opportunity — embedding sustainability at the heart of productive, profitable farming and securing a vibrant future for Scottish agriculture.