People who manage areas of Scotland's land and freshwater can
apply for a new award that shows they're protecting nature and
helping to tackle climate change.
Areas of advanced biodiversity can now be recognised as a
Nature30 site which means they are helping meet Scotland's
commitment to 30 by 30 - ensuring that 30% of our land and sea is
protected for nature by 2030.
Nature30 sites are areas of land that are:
- not an existing protected area
- managed to have positive outcomes for biodiversity
- subject to a long-term (typically at least 25 years)
assurance that they will continue to be managed to deliver for
biodiversity.
Becoming a Nature30 site will give recognition to more places
doing excellent conservation work and should also provide a route
to attracting both private and public financial incentives.
Applications are open to landowners, communities, companies and
public bodies.
Visiting Findhorn Community sand dune, a Nature30 pilot site,
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action said:
“Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth, and is essential
for sustaining the ecosystems that provide us with food, fuel,
health, wealth, and other vital services.
“The loss of species and degradation of our natural environment
is an existential threat to humanity. We have a vision for a
future where Scotland's natural environment is restored and
supports thriving communities and wildlife alike.
“These Nature30 sites will play an integral role in achieving our
aim of restoring 30% of Scotland for nature by 2030 and will
significantly improve the resilience of Scottish biodiversity as
a whole. I encourage all eligible individuals and groups to
apply.”
Nick Halfhide, Interim Chief Executive of NatureScot said:
“With the urgent climate and nature crises we face today, we must
work together to find the best ways to connect and improve nature
across the country. The first Nature 30 sites show the commitment
and vision of local people, with the Findhorn Hinterland Trust
site a superb example.
“We hope the trust's work to protect rare coastal habitat and
ensure this special place is healthy and resilient for the future
will inspire others.”
Background
Unlike Protected Areas Nature30 sites will not have statutory
protection or enforced regulation. Instead, the emphasis is on
governance authorities meeting agreed and voluntary management
commitments.
Biodiversity - gov.scot
Developing
OECMs (Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures) |
NatureScot
