The next Scottish Government must take action to protect and restore the natural environment in the face of climate change and threats to biodiversity.
Ahead of the Holyrood election next year, Scottish Environment LINK has published a manifesto for nature supported by 34 of our member organisations.
The manifesto calls for:
- Increased investment in nature restoration
- Action to protect and restore habitats and species, including reaching the international target to protect 30% of land and seas by the end of this decade
- Reform to forestry funding to support new ambitions for native woodlands and sustainable deer management
- A national mission to restore Scotland’s peatlands
- Action to restore and clean up our rivers and freshwater environment
- Community focused marine planning to protect Scotland’s seas
- Increased support to help farmers and crofters deliver for nature
Dan Paris, Director of Policy and Engagement at Scottish Environment LINK, said:
“Scotland’s natural environment is an incredible asset and a central part of who we are as a country. It is home to globally important wildlife, rare habitats, and an amazing diversity of species.
“But nature is in trouble and we need the next Scottish Government to act and to invest in its recovery.
“Our manifesto is an optimistic one – with concrete solutions to the environmental crisis that can deliver for people and for the planet.
“It is time for all political parties to show the leadership on nature and climate that the public demand and expect.”
Photo: Colin Hattersley