But in what sense is it better to use grouse moor? That's habitat that is not currently touched much, and is a good reservoir for natural ecology, right? There's value in that.
In any case, I will cede the environmental case to local ecologists. But if it's already farming of grouse, that seems less intensive use than farming of sheep, as an outsider I would be interested in learning more as to why grouse moors are preferable to sheep land. It seems that grouse moors would be far more amenable to rewinding. But as I said, I only have my non-expert opinion!
I agree with you and would rather not see grouse moor turned to solar farms. I'd love to see more moor rewilded, the work that Moors for the Future is doing is amazing. Grouse moors are very much touched and managed though. Gamekeepers seek to minimise foxes, stoats, raptors and trees.