SNH media statement: IPCC's Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate (SROCC)

Cathy Tilbrook, SNH’s Head of Sustainable Coasts and Seas said:

“We welcome this report which very clearly sets out the way that climate change is affecting our oceans, and the wider impact this will have on people around the world.

“In tracking the health of Scotland’s seas and the wildlife they support, we are seeing growing evidence of stresses caused by climate change, including declines in many seabird populations, and increased incidence of marine non-native invasive species. Our work to designate and manage Marine Protected Areas and advise on fisheries management aims to increase resilience and allow wildlife to adapt to many of these changes.

“Some marine and coastal habitats, like maerl beds, saltmarshes and marine sediments, are important ‘blue carbon’ stores and as we learn more about how they function, we are looking at how to ensure they continue to lock up carbon as well as providing other critical functions for people and nature.

We help care for many protected areas that hold evidence of past coastal changes, crucial to anticipating future sea-level rise.  The Scottish Government’s Dynamic Coast project, hosted in SNH, has quantified coastal erosion and change over the last 150 years.  It is now investigating how key coastal locations will be affected by sea-level rise over the coming decades, so that strategies for resilience and adaptation can be put in place to help sustain Scotland’s society and economy.

“There is still time to tackle climate change, but it will require an unprecedented effort from all sectors of society. We know we have a big task before us but working with our partners we are ready to deliver the transformational change required to bring a nature rich future for Scotland, part of the urgently needed solution to climate change.”

ENDS