Scotland to accelerate nature restoration to fight biodiversity loss

The Scottish Government has laid out plans to protect nature, with aims to restore degraded land and halt biodiversity loss by 2030.  

26 priority actions have been identified in the draft biodiversity strategy, with proposals backed up with evidence and supported by delivery plans, investment plans and statutory targets.  

Strategy aims include accelerating restoration and regeneration, expanding and connecting protected areas, supporting nature-friendly farming, fishing and forestry, recovering and protecting vulnerable species, and investing in nature recovery.  

This could see Scotland protecting 30% of sea and land, introducing a support framework to help farmers deliver nature restoration and developing a Biodiversity Investment Plan, amongst other priority actions.  

This vision was laid out as Scotland attends the UN global biodiversity summit COP15, where links between the climate crisis and nature degradation are being highlighted.  

Biodiversity Minister Lorna Slater, who spoke at the conference, said ‘the Scottish Government is clear that this is an emergency that requires an emergency response.’ 

She continued: ‘We are already investing in our land and at seas through our £65 million Nature Restoration Fund, the expansion of our nature networks, the establishment of a new National Park and by highly protecting at least 10% of our seas. But we know we can do more. 

 ‘At the heart of this strategy is collaboration. No one can tackle the nature emergency alone, and we are committed to an inclusive approach that engages with and enlists communities, business, farmers, land managers, and decision makers alike. Our strategy will be closely linked to our Climate Change Plan, playing a key role in helping us meet our climate targets and achieve a Just Transition. 

 ‘I am hopeful that COP15 will be a pivotal moment in the global fightback against extinction and environmental degradation.’  

Slater also acknowledged Scotland’s role in pushing for more ambitious biodiversity policies, as the country led a UN process supported by 300 sub-national governments, regions and cities. 

The Edinburgh Declaration recognises the part these local and subnational authorities can play in reaching biodiversity targets. 

Currently, the strategy is still a draft, with a final version to be completed at the end of COP15 to ensure any agreements can be incorporated into the plans.  

Photo by Bjorn Snelders