SNH welcomes 'Protecting Scotland's Future' - Programme for Government

Welcoming today’s Programme for Government, as set out by the First Minister to the Scottish Parliament, CEO of SNH, Francesca Osowska said:

 “The First Minister has laid out clearly that improving our biodiversity is key to tackling the climate emergency, and today’s commitment to protect and enhance nature crucially recognises this. 

“The latest announcement of £2 million in funding for the Biodiversity Challenge Fund marks another important step forward in the investment and activity we’ve seen in the public, private and third sectors.

“Acknowledging our critical role in peatland restoration, plans to phase out the use of horticultural peat by increasing the use of alternatives will help scale up our efforts and keep carbon locked in what are some of the world’s deepest peat deposits.  

“With increasing business interest in investing in our environment, Scotland has to be part of the growing multi-billion, sustainable industry developments.  Effective partnerships will be key to this, and we welcome the initiative to work more closely with Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, SEPA and businesses across Scotland on the opportunities that come with working towards a net zero future.

“As Scotland’s nature agency, SNH’s role will be critical as we go forward, working to improve our natural environment - a challenge we must tackle with vital support from our partners as we do all we can to meet international targets.”