13 May, 2021
Statistical News Release: The Proportion of Scotland's Protected Sites in Favourable Condition 2021
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland
13 May 2021 – NatureScot has today released the latest figures tracking the proportion of Scottish natural features in favourable or recovering condition.
The main findings show that, as of 31st March 2021, 78.3% of Scotland’s natural features on protected nature sites are either in or recovering towards a favourable condition. The proportion of features in favourable condition as measured by the indicator has decreased by 0.5 percentage point in the last year from 78.8%. A difference of less than +/-1 percentage point from last year's figure suggests that the position is more likely to be maintaining than showing any change.
The report draws on annual monitoring carried out by NatureScot of the condition of the 5,460 natural features across Scotland. As of 31st March 2021, 5,301 natural features were assessed, divided into three categories: habitats (78.3% in favourable condition), species (72.5% in favourable condition) and earth sciences, which includes geographical outcrops and landforms, fossil beds, and caves (97.3% in favourable condition).
Overall, the condition of 14 natural features on protected areas has improved to favourable or recovering condition, while 32 have deteriorated to unfavourable condition.
The full statistical publication can be accessed at: https://www.nature.scot/information-hub/official-statistics/official-statistics-protected-sites
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NatureScot is Scotland's nature agency. Responding to the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change, we work to protect and restore nature by inspiring everyone to value our natural world. Our goal is a nature-rich, net-zero future for Scotland. For more information, visit our website at www.nature.scot
'S e buidheann nàdair na h-Alba a th’ ann an NàdarAlba. Bidh sinn a’ gleidheadh agus a’ slànachadh nàdar le bhith a’ brosnachadh a h-uile duine gu spèis a chur air an t-saoghal nàdarra againn, agus sinn a’ freagairt air an dà chùis-èiginn de chall bith-iomadachd ’s atharrachadh na gnàth-shìde. ’S e ar n-amas nàdar beairteach ’s cothromachadh carboin do dh’Alba. Airson an tuilleadh fiosrachaidh, thoiribh sùil air an làraich-lìn againn aig www.nature.scot