The Environment Strategy for Scotland: Delivering the Environment Strategy Outcome on Scotland's Global Footprint - Evidence Base & Policy Levers

1. Abstract

This report discusses pathways for achieving Scotland's goal of being responsible global citizens with a sustainable international footprint. First, it gathers evidence. Then it explores response options.

Section 1 responds to Research Question 1 - what does evidence tell us about the impact of Scotland’s consumption and production on the natural environment in other countries around the world, and the extent to which this is sustainable? It introduces the framework for measuring Scotland's international footprint - using the lens of biological regeneration, since in the Anthropocene, this is the world's most limited material resource. The report finds that 47% of Scotland's demand on biological regeneration - its Footprint - is placed overseas. It also shows that, per person, Scotland’s Footprint currently exceeds what its territory’s ecosystems can regenerate - its biocapacity - by 25% i.e. Scotland is operating with a biocapacity deficit.

Section 2 responds to Research Question 2 - what policy levers could be used most effectively to improve the sustainability of Scotland’s international environmental impact? It addresses the need for a systemic approach to managing nature’s budget, given we live now in the Anthropocene. To minimise impacts abroad, it highlights the importance of reducing overall consumption demand. For effective adoption of such measures and avoiding policy conflicts, it also suggests prioritising interventions that simultaneously advance wider societal goals. Further, by considering policy levers, interventions and examples of international best practice, the report proposes how impact reduction policies can be integrated into current government activities.