National nature agency to become ‘NatureScot’

Recent global UN reports on climate change and biodiversity loss have issued a stark warning on the need for transformational change in the way we all interact with our environment. 

NatureScot will continue to prioritise restoring and enriching our biodiversity with an ambitious programme of activity including: 

• Creating vital greenspace in urban areas;
• Tackling invasive non-native species;
• Restoring our habitats – like peatland and coasts; 
• Promoting ‘environmentally friendly’ farming and sustainable species management;
• Increasing public knowledge and access to our natural world, including through our National Nature Reserves

Scottish Natural Heritage Chief Executive Francesca Osowska said:

“Nature is at the heart of what we do, and as NatureScot we will continue to work with partners to help deliver the transformational change needed to bring a nature-rich future for Scotland. We know the importance of nature to the wellbeing of Scotland’s people and places, and as an enabler of sustainable and inclusive growth.

“As NatureScot we will be more recognisable to the general public as the organisation at the heart of helping to deliver the transformational change needed to ensure a nature rich future for Scotland, which is part of Scotland’s commitment to tackling climate change.

“People know that climate change is a big issue but not as many know that nature – and biodiversity loss – is also a global and generational threat to human well-being.  But it’s not just about conservation - enriching our nature is also part of the solution to the climate emergency too.

“We want everyone to know that they can make a difference by caring about our natural world.”