Deepening our understanding of life below the waves: introducing ocean literacy
By Rebecca Crawford, Marine Policy Officer at the Scottish Wildlife Trust Introduction As a maritime nation with over 900 islands and one of the longest coastlines in Europe, the marine cultural heritage of Scotland is deeply ingrained. However, there is a disconnect between people and the ocean, with many people now calling for a better […]
Why didn’t John Swinney mention the sea?
Getting the long-delayed fisheries management measures in place in our marine protected areas is not only a crucial step towards restoring our seas to health. It’s essential for the future of Scotland’s small-scale inshore fishing industry. More protection means more fish, means more local, sustainable jobs.
Community groups and environmental campaigners join forces to urge government action on marine protection
In a briefing event for journalists and policymakers on Wednesday, environmental and community groups jointly criticised the Scottish government’s slow progress on marine protection. The event was hosted by Scottish Environment LINK, a coalition of over 40 environmental groups, and Coastal Communities Network, a coalition of over 30 community-led groups that support action to restore […]
Safeguarding Scotland’s cetaceans: improving the effectiveness of marine protected areas
By Vicki James, Protected Areas Coordinator at Whale and Dolphin Conservation Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are a critical tool for protecting important areas for cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) in Scottish waters. Around the UK, 11 MPAs have been designated specifically for cetaceans. However, research into the management effectiveness of these MPAs by Whale and […]
Dear Cabinet Secretary, we love Scotland’s seas. Please protect them before it’s too late.
We asked supporters to write personal messages to Gillian Martin, Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy, telling her why they care about Scotland’s seas. The messages came from across the country, from people with first-hand experience of the decline of our seas, and from people concerned about the world their children and grandchildren will inherit if we don’t act now.
Saving Scotland’s Seabirds: A Call to Action
Guest blog by Caitlin Paul, Marine Policy Officer at RSPB Scotland As someone who has always had a deep love for Scottish seas and the vibrant marine life it supports, I’ve recently focused my passion on seabirds, and over the past year, I’ve become increasingly fascinated by these remarkable creatures. Every year, Scotland’s rugged coasts, […]