We welcome the statements for the vision of Scotland in 2030 that identify important aspects of landscape and wild land, and for greening the environment through “Green Networks” for wildlife and people. High quality natural environments not only benefit biodiversity but improve people’s quality of life and encourage inward investment, thereby increasing sustainable economic growth. Recognition of the value of landscapes for people, and the economic activity that they contribute, is therefore warmly welcomed.
However, whilst the NPF2 has identified these issues, it lacks clarity on the practical implementation which will move Scotland towards a more socially, environmentally and economically sustainable society. Importantly, there appears to be little co-ordination within the NPF2 to link sustainable development with economic growth.