Increase promotion of the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code.
Objective 4: Protect and support the recovery of vulnerable and important species and habitats
Priority Action 22. Manage existing and emerging pressures to improve the conservation status of seabirds, marine mammals and elasmobranchs.
The Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code (SMWWC) remains the primary guidance for reducing disturbance to marine wildlife from tourism and recreational activities. NatureScot continues to publish and promote the Code online, alongside guidance materials for operators and the public.
Promotion activity is evidenced through NatureScot guidance pages, downloadable materials, and inclusion in marine wildlife tourism advice, but there is no published national programme or reporting framework demonstrating increased promotion, uptake, or compliance over time.
Delivery therefore appears to be ongoing through existing communication channels rather than through a clearly defined or expanded promotion strategy.
The Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code is based on evidence that disturbance from vessels, tourism, and recreation can negatively affect marine species, including cetaceans, seals, and seabirds. The Code provides guidance to reduce disturbance through approach distances and responsible behaviour.
NatureScot guidance identifies adherence to the Code as a key mechanism for reducing disturbance pressure on marine wildlife, particularly in areas with high tourism activity. However, ecological outcomes depend on awareness, uptake, and compliance, and there is no published evidence demonstrating changes in behaviour or measurable reductions in disturbance linked to increased promotion of the Code.
NatureScot – Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code
NatureScot – Protected species A-Z guide
Publish a Scottish Seabird Conservation Strategy which will identify actions to support species recovery and increase the resilience of seabird populations.
Publish the UK Dolphin, Porpoise and Whale Conservation Strategy and begin delivery of actions relevant to Scotland to conserve and manage pressures acting on these species.
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