Tackling the Nature Emergency - strategic framework for biodiversity: consultation

Part A - Scottish Biodiversity Strategy And Delivery Plan

Section One: Scottish Biodiversity Strategy

Introduction

The Scottish Biodiversity Strategy to 2045: tackling the nature emergency sets out the compelling evidence of long-standing global and Scottish biodiversity loss and our high-level goals for biodiversity: to be Nature Positive, halting biodiversity loss by 2030 and to have restored and regenerated biodiversity across the country by 2045. This isembodied in the Strategic Vision:

By 2045, Scotland will have restored and regenerated biodiversity across our land, freshwater and seas.

Our natural environment, our habitats, ecosystems and species, will be diverse, thriving, resilient and adapting to climate change.

Regenerated biodiversity will drive a sustainable economy and support thriving communities, and people.

The Strategy identifies a series of outcomes which capture what success looks like across our landscapes and marine environments and five high level objectives, with a sixth now identified, which embody the action we need to take to achieve those outcomes:

1. Accelerate restoration and regeneration;

2. Protect nature on land and at sea, across and beyond protected areas

3. Embed nature positive farming, fishing and forestry

4. Protect and support the recovery of vulnerable and important species and habitats;

5. Invest in Nature; and,

6. Take action on the indirect drivers of biodiversity loss.

The draft strategy was published for consultation on 12 September 2022, resulting in 1,289 responses (including 1,010 in response to two campaigns by the RSPB and the Woodland Trust). An analysis of comments made, and a summary of the Government's response to them is now available at https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781835212813.

The draft strategy is published again here, alongside our draft Delivery Plan and proposals for elements of the proposed Natural Environment Bill. Only minimal amendments have been made to the draft strategy at this stage (correction of typographical and factual errors and updating of the table of international targets to incorporate the Kunming / Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework which was agreed in December 2022). We are not therefore seeking further views on the strategy document but include it here to provide the link from strategy to delivery plan. The final Strategy and Delivery Plan will be published together, incorporating changes in response to this and previous consultations.

Section Two: Scottish Biodiversity Delivery Plan

Chapter 1

Introduction: From Strategy to Delivery

The Scottish Biodiversity strategy to 2045: tackling the nature emergency sets out the compelling evidence of long-standing global and Scottish biodiversity loss. The Strategy sets our goal: to halt biodiversity loss and be Nature Positive by 2030 and to have restored and regenerated biodiversity across the country by 2045.

This isembodied in the Strategic Vision:

By 2045, Scotland will have restored and regenerated biodiversity across our land, freshwater and seas.

Our natural environment, our habitats, ecosystems and species, will be diverse, thriving, resilient and adapting to climate change.

Regenerated biodiversity will drive a sustainable economy and support thriving communities, and people.

The Strategy identifies a series of outcomes which capture what success looks like across our landscapes and marine environments.

A series of rolling delivery plans will ensure our approach is agile and dynamic and responding to conditions on the ground or at sea. This is the first draft delivery plan. It outlines the actions we need to take to set us on the path to meeting the 2030 milestone and delivering the vision. We anticipate refreshing and publishing delivery plans approximately every five years.

This Delivery Plan was developed through a modelling process. It was developed with the input of experts, scientists and key stakeholders. These actions were refined through discussion with policy experts, delivery partners and stakeholders. The full process is detailed here.

The resulting set of actions forms the basis for this Delivery Plan. They are organised under the five objectives set out in the strategy:

1. Accelerate restoration and regeneration;

2. Protect nature on land and at sea, across and beyond protected areas;

3. Embed nature-positive farming, fishing and forestry;

4. Protect and support the recovery of vulnerable and important species and habitats;

5. Invest in Nature; and,

We have added a sixth objective to capture a broader set of actions:

6. Take action on the indirect drivers of biodiversity loss

These objectives align broadly with the drivers of biodiversity loss identified by UN advisory body IPBES[8] and the Global Biodiversity Framework's Goals and Targets.

Actions under each of the objectives in the Delivery Plan includes a landscape or seascape code that identifies which outcome's logic model the action originated from, however, many actions will apply more widely (see list of codes below). Some of the actions are universal and contribute to several outcomes. Others are more specific to landscapes or marine environments. To filter the list of actions by landscape and seascape code, please view this alternative format for the tables.

Landscape and Seascape Codes:

Woodlands

Coastal

Freshwater

Urban

Uplands and Peatlands

Soils

Agriculture

Marine

Overarching

Chapter 2

Objective 1: Accelerate Restoration and Regeneration

The actions set out in this Chapter align with CBD Goal A and Targets 2, 6 and 9.

The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration aims to prevent, halt, and reverse the degradation of ecosystems across our land and seas.

Large-scale ecosystem restoration on land and sea is at the heart of our efforts to tackle the nature-climate crisis. Healthy and restored ecosystems will massively contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions and help us adapt to the climate change which is already happening. The restoration of ecosystems in urban areas is also important, requiring changes to the way we plan and manage the green and blue spaces of our towns and cities (Chapter 3).

Work is already in progress across Scotland to restore and regenerate ecosystems and habitats including for example ambitious woodland creation and peatland restoration programmes but we urgently need to accelerate and expand the scale of our efforts.

Proposed Key Actions

Detailed actions contributing to Objective 1 are contained in the Delivery Plan tables on page 18. The most significant are summarised here. We will:

• Introduce Statutory Nature Restoration Targets – The Natural Environment Bill will put in place a framework for statutory nature targets.
• Identify and facilitate partnership projects for six large scale landscape restoration areas with significant woodland components by 2025 and establish management structures with restoration work progressing by 2030.
• Implement the Scottish Plan for INNS Surveillance, Prevention and Control and secure wider support measures to enable long-term effective INNS removal at scale. INNS management and damage costs increase rapidly over time as new species arrive and established ones continue to spread due to many factors, including as a consequence of climate change. Investing in prevention provides economic returns up to fifty times higher than trying to manage an INNS after it arrives.
• Increase resilience in coastal and marine systems by reducing key pressures and safeguard space for coastal habitat change. Actions that provide naturally functioning coastal habitats and landforms will reduce key pressures on the coast and allow for natural change and adaptation to sea level rise and coastal erosion. Tackling marine litter and plastics, noise, other marine contaminants and seabed disturbance will provide healthier marine ecosystems that can maximise support for biodiversity.
• Substantially reduce deer densities across our landscapes in parallel with ensuring sustainable management of grazing by sheep to improve overall ecosystem health. Reducing herbivore impacts is one of the biggest levers we have in Scotland for reducing biodiversity loss and enabling regeneration at scale. It is a pre-requisite for many of our nature restoration activities including peatland and woodland restoration.

We will work with the deer management sector to secure average densities of 2 deer per km2 in priority woodland, 5-8 deer per km2 in the Cairngorms National Park, and more widely a maximum of 10 deer per km2 nationally by 2030. This will require a minimum increase of 25-30% on current cull levels sustained over several years. Careful alignment of incentives and regulatory levers will be needed to achieve optimal herbivore densities and reduced grazing and browsing impacts to support biodiversity outcomes.

We will explore how best to support optimal herbivore densities to enhance biodiversity outcomes in the uplands.

• Implement a Programme of Ecosystem Restoration – The Habitat Map of Scotland (HabMoS) gives extensive detail on globally and nationally important habitats and ecosystems.[9]Alongside our peatland restoration programme, the restoration of Scotland's Rainforest has already been identified as a priority for restoration and we will further develop a funding and investment model to deliver this.We will also identify species assemblages and species which require action beyond that focussed on the restoration of their ecosystem, and update the Scottish Biodiversity List (Chapter 5).
• Enhance water and air quality and undertake water management measures to enhance biodiversity and reduce negative impacts. We will address pollution, water and air quality, and extremes of water availability, through a range of mechanisms to support the restoration of ecosystems and provide wider societal benefits.
• Ensure Grouse-Moor management sustains healthy biodiversity. TheWildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill is addressing raptor persecution and the use of muirburn to ensure it is undertaken in an environmentally sustainable manner by trained individuals.

Landscape/Seascape codes: We have indicated which outcome's logic model the action originated from, however, many actions will apply more widely.

Landscape/Seascape Code	Action
	Introduce statutory nature restoration Targets
Overarching	Drive cross sectoral action by introducing a framework for statutory nature restoration targets in the proposed Natural Environment Bill (scheduled to be introduced in this parliamentary session).

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Introduce a Programme of Ecosystem Restoration
Woodlands	Identify and facilitate partnership projects for six large scale landscape restoration areas with significant woodland components by 2025 and establish management structures with restoration work progressing by 2030.
Woodlands	Develop the new Register of Ancient Woodlands, to include locational data, a definition of the required 'protected and restored' condition of ancient woodlands, and a process for recording ancient woodlands that reach the required standard.
Woodlands	Support landowners to protect and restore priority ancient woodlands by 2030, where the initial priority list is those protected/designated woodlands that are currently in unfavourable condition.
Woodlands	Develop a strategic approach for restoring Scotland's Rainforest by 2024 Building on the work of the Alliance for Scotland's Rainforest agree and publish a strategic approach Working with partners produce a framework for funding and support for SG delivery in priority areas Investigate the application of technology to improve monitoring and follow up work.
Uplands and Peatlands	Develop best practice guidance on measures for upland restoration to regenerate peatlands, increase native woodland cover, manage grazing, protect certain target species and priority habitats, and increase habitat heterogeneity.
Uplands and Peatlands	Develop a national peatland monitoring framework that incorporates on-site and remotely sensed assessments of biodiversity indicators, climate resilience and associated functions within the wider landscape, hydrological and ecological network contexts.
Uplands and Peatlands	Following consultation in early 2023, continue on-going work towards implementing a ban on the sale of peat in Scotland.
Marine and Coastal	Publish a plan for marine and coastal ecosystem restoration, including prioritising habitats and locations suitable for restoration by 2025.
Marine	Deliver additional protection for spawning and juvenile congregation areas, and for species which are integral components of the marine food web, such as sandeels by 2028.
Marine	Develop a new approach to marine biodiversity monitoring, including testing through pilots, covering both state and pressure work. This will include a review of the Scottish MPA Monitoring Strategy (2028). State: Develop and implement a co-ordinated programme of benthic habitat surveillance; Extend existing plankton monitoring programmes; Undertake targeted monitoring of fish species that are integral components of marine food webs to enable better assessment of the effects of prey availability on seabird and marine mammal populations. Pressure: Continue to develop bycatch and entanglement surveillance schemes; Extend the requirement for Vessel Tracking and Monitoring Systems across the whole commercial fishing fleet by 2026, and increase capacity and capability in related compliance monitoring and protection; Extend current monitoring programme for marine litter to include monitoring of microplastics; Work with marine users to establish an effective risk-based monitoring and surveillance programme for marine INNS.
Freshwater	Implement a programme of measures to restore catchments and rivers through River Basin Management Planning to achieve 81% of water bodies at 'Good' or better condition by 2027.
Freshwater	Convene stakeholders to implement local and national catchment restoration initiatives, developing best practice through demonstration sites and the provision of expert advice by 2030.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Implement Scottish Plan for INNS Surveillance, Prevention and Control.
Overarching	Take action to ensure pathways for the introduction and spread of INNS are managed to prevent or reduce their rate of introduction and establishment, and prevent further damage to ecosystems. To include: i. reducing the rate of establishment of known or potential INNS by at least 50% by 2030 compared to 2020 level; and, i i. detection of priority INNS through increased inspections and vigilance of citizen scientists and eradicated or contained before they become established and spread.
Overarching	Develop and implement a pipeline of strategic INNS projects to coordinate the control of priority INNS at scale, to eliminate or reduce the impacts of INNS in at least 30% of priority sites by 2030.
Overarching	Raise public awareness of the impacts of INNS and embed INNS biosecurity practice across industries and recreational activities linked to the most important pathways of introduction and spread by 2030.
Marine	Develop best practice guidelines and a voluntary code of conduct for INNS biosecurity suitable for supporting marine habitat restoration by 2025.
Marine	Complete feasibility study of eradication / managed control of marine INNS and develop and implement a rolling programme of island INNS management, focussed on targeted removal of predators impacting on nesting seabirds.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Improve Resilience in Coastal and Marine Systems by reducing pressures and increase and safeguard space for coastal habitat change
Coastal	Identify and address gaps in current evidence on coastal habitats, through research and monitoring as an enabling action for all coastal biodiversity actions (2024-2028) and fund research commencing in 2024 into better quantifying the adaptation benefits of coastal landforms and habitatsto maximise biodiversity benefits.
Coastal	Develop Coastal Change Adaptation Plans (CCAPs) which promote: National, regional, and local partnerships which deliver adaptive coastal management with benefits for flood and coastal change management and biodiversity. Promotion of naturally functioning coastal landforms and habitats to reduce pressures, allow recovery and improve their health and resilience to enable natural functioning and associated biodiversity benefits. Embed Dynamic Coast's "sea level rise" predictive adaptive management approach (to forecast coastal and flood changes) including in public engagement via local partnerships, to allow opportunities to be identified to safeguard and create dynamic natural, biodiverse habitats.
Coastal	Investigate scope to identify and create appropriate coastal accommodation space to promote recovery and adaptation, and explore funding options enabling future strategies and plans to protect dynamic natural biodiverse coastal habitats.
Marine and Coastal	Reduce marine litter and marine plastics: Implement the Marine Litter Strategy for Scotland through a 6 year action plan, published in 2022; Develop a waste management scheme to improve recycling routes for the end of life fishing gear by 2027 Enable improved plastic pellet handling and management across the plastics supply chain to reduce pellet loss, and provide guidance to support pellet clean up in the environment by end 2025
Marine	Contribute to the OSPAR action to agree a regional action plan by 2025, setting out a series of national and collective actions and, as appropriate, OSPAR measures to reduce noise pollution.
Marine	Develop policy by 2028 to address contaminants that exceed OSPAR threshold values.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Substantially reduce deer densities across our landscapes in parallel with ensuring sustainable management of grazing by sheep to improve overall ecosystem health
Overarching	Introduce new deer legislation which will modernise the Deer (Scotland) Act 1996 and introduce new powers for intervention for the purposes of enhancing or restoring nature, including preventing biodiversity loss, by 2025.
Overarching	Establish a national deer management programme including monitoring capacity.
Overarching	Set deer cull to level at which habitats and ecosystems can recover and regenerate and deer densities are maintained at sustainable levels and appropriate to context by 2030; Broad targets of 2 deer per km2 in priority woodland, 5-8 deer per km2 in Cairngorms National Park and 10 deer per km2 nationally by 2030.
Uplands and Peatlands	Explore how best to support optimal herbivore densities to enhance biodiversity outcomes in the uplands.
Woodlands	Establish mechanisms to ensure new and existing woodlands are designed to enable effective and safe deer management such as within revised FGS by 2027.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Enhance water and air quality. Undertake water management measures to enhance biodiversity.
Overarching	Ensure River Basin Management Plans include actions to limit pollution and improve water quality achieving Good status in over 90% of waterbodies by 2030.
Overarching	Ensure contaminants of emerging concern that may impact on biodiversity are identified through existing mechanisms with an additional system in place by 2030 that uses Scottish data to identify new problems.
Overarching	Contribute to the reform of UK chemicals regulations by 2030.
Overarching	Support projects and programmes (2023-2030) that complement regulation to address emerging or novel contaminants in the water environment, e.g. The One Health Breakthrough Partnership on pharmaceuticals and the water industry's Chemical Investigation Programme.
Overarching	Implement actions in The Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 strategy by 2026.
Freshwater	Take an adaptive approach to abstraction and flows management to protect freshwater biodiversity from the impacts of water scarcity in response to future climate change pressures, using the Controlled Activity Regulations and review of abstraction.
Freshwater	Continue to invest in improvements to the wastewater service to improve freshwater biodiversity by upgrading 40 wastewater treatment works and 24 intermittent sewage discharges, as required, by 2027.
Freshwater	Develop a mechanism to promote positive management of rural and urban sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) for biodiversity benefits.
Freshwater	Maintain the long term monitoring of the freshwater environment in addition to being enhanced and supplemented by new developing technologies such as eDNA when available.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Ensure Grouse Moor management sustains healthy biodiversity
Uplands and Peatlands	Introduce legislation and develop a licensing approach to grouse moor management. Develop with stakeholders a new Code of Practice on grouse shooting to ensure moorland management supports biodiversity by 2025.
Uplands and Peatlands	Introduce legislation and revise Muirburn Code to regulate the use of all muirburn and only allow burning on peatland by exception for limited purposes by 2025.

Question 2a: Have we captured the key actions needed to deliver the objective: accelerate restoration and regeneration?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2b: Are the key actions, to support the objective: accelerate restoration and regeneration, sufficient to put Scotland on track to ending the loss of biodiversity by 2030?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2c: Which actions do you think will have most impact?

Please state the actions and explain the reasons for your response:

Chapter 3

Objective 2: Protect Nature on Land and at Sea across and beyond Protected Areas

These Actions align with CBD Goal A and Targets 1, 2, and 3.

Halting biodiversity loss by 2030 and adapting to climate change requires a step change in action to protect and restore habitats for the long-term and ensure they are well connected. Areas that are protected for nature through legal designation and other mechanisms, and the nature networks they form a part of, form a vital backbone for nature recovery across the wider land and sea. Protected areas provide benefits for society through capture and storage of carbon, provision of local employment opportunities and support to health and wellbeing. They provide a wide range of environmental services including pollinator services, water quality and flood management.

Key Actions

The set of detailed actions underpinning Objective 2 are set out in the Table below.

Most significantly we will:

• Ensure that at least 30% of land and sea is protected and effectively managed to support nature in good health by 2030 (30 by 30). Areas that are protected for nature through legal designation and other mechanisms contribute to protecting the most important areas for biodiversity, ecosystem functions and services.

On land, currently 18.2% is formally designated, meaning we need to protect approximately 990,000 additional hectares for nature, through a combination of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) and formal designations. This does not mean removing people or all activity from this land, rather it is about developing an approach to sharing our land to create positive outcomes for our biodiversity. We have engaged extensively with stakeholders to develop a policy framework for 30 by 30 which sets out the vision and principles underpinning its implementation. We will continue to engage with stakeholders to build an implementation road map which will include guidance on how we will operationalise OECMs in Scotland. The proposed Natural Environment Bill will provide the opportunity to put in place any legislative provisions necessary. Framework for 30 by 30 in Scotland - Draft | NatureScot

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) already cover 37% of our seas. We will put in place fisheries management measures for those sites in the Marine Protected Area (MPA) network that require them, increasing the level of protection to support the recovery and resilience of Scotland's Seas. We will continue our engagement with stakeholders, developing a new pathway and timetable for enhancing marine protection.

• Expand the role of National Parks and ensure they act as exemplars of biodiversity protection and recovery. Scotland currently has two National Parks and plan to designate at least one more by 2026. We are consulting on a refreshed purpose for our National Park authorities which will emphasise their role in addressing the climate and nature emergencies. New Partnership Plans set out ambitious visions and targets with respect to nature restoration and place an increased emphasis on the role of the Parks' communities, third sector organisations and the public and private sectors in the implementation of those Partnership Plans.
• Fulfil the potential of National Nature Reserves (NNRs) for nature recovery. As well as providing places for nature to flourish, Scotland's 43 NNRs are important gateways to nature, providing opportunities for all of Scotland's people to experience and enjoy the best of Scotland's habitats and wildlife. We will identify opportunities for expansion or the designation of new NNRs. Working with the NNR partnership, we will ensure these sites are managed as key building blocks for Nature Networks across Scotland.
• Expand and enhance Nature Networks and ecological connectivity. By 2030 each Local Authority in Scotland will have a spatially defined Nature Network. Important areas for biodiversity, other sites of local importance for biodiversity (e.g. Local Nature Reserves) and areas being restored for nature will also contribute to Nature Networks.They will provide a range of opportunities for more people, especially those in urban areas, to experience and connect with nature.We have engaged extensively with stakeholders to develop a policy framework for nature networks which sets out the vision and principles underpinning its implementation.Framework for Nature Networks in Scotland - Draft | NatureScot
• Champion new planning and development measures for protecting and enhancing biodiversity. NPF4 is Scotland's national spatial strategy and has the climate and nature crises at its heart. It sets out our spatial principles, regional priorities, national developments and national planning policy. We have identified several key actions which will ensure NPF4 secures positive effects for biodiversity such as exploring options for developing a biodiversity metric .
• Enhance biodiversity in Scotland's green and blue spaces. The green and blue spaces within and around our buildings and settlements, particularly in our urban areas, provide important places for both people and nature, many of which can be enhanced for biodiversity. We will establish a new National Charter with a clear vision for improving biodiversity in our urban green and blue spaces, and support delivery through strategies and plans that promote best practice management, wider sharing and greater understanding.

Landscape/Seascape Code	Action
	Ensure that at least 30% of land and sea is protected or conserved and effectively managed to support nature in good health by 2030 (30 by 30)
Overarching	By 2030, ensure that at least 30% of land and sea is protected or conserved, as protected areas or Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs), and effectively managed to support nature restoration.
Overarching	Develop and implement a monitoring regime to ensure that Protected Area sites deliver their objectives.
Marine	Put in place fisheries management measures for those sites in the MPA network that require them by 2025, increasing the level of protection to support the recovery and resilience of Scotland's Seas.
Marine	Develop and implement an adaptive management framework for the MPA network by 2028.
Marine	Assess the network of marine protected areas in respect of the resilience of marine biodiversity to climate change by 2026, based on a regional assessment by OSPAR.
Woodlands	Establish a programme to enable protected woodlands to be brought into favourable condition with clear targets and a clear framework for decision making.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Expand the role of National Parks and ensure they act as exemplars of biodiversity protection and recovery
Overarching	Designate at least one new National Park by 2026.
Overarching	Strengthen the powers and governance of our National Parks by 2026.
Overarching	Ensure National Parks, National Nature Reserves and protected areas are exemplars in better delivery of biodiversity outcomes by 2030.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Fulfil the potential of National Nature Reserves (NNRs) for nature recovery
Overarching	Actively use the NNR suite to develop, deliver and demonstrate best practice in wildlife management – putting in place five demonstration examples by 2025.
Overarching	Identify and realise opportunities for expansion of existing NNRs or the designation of new ones – identifying a range of sites by 2026 and designating those considered suitable by 2028.
Overarching	Adapt the planning and management of NNRs in response to the impacts of climate change on nature – putting in place refreshed management plans for NNRs by 2028.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Identify, expand and enhance Nature Networks and ecological connectivity
Overarching	Ensure nature networks are implemented in every Local Authority area to provide connectivity between important places for biodiversity, deliver local priorities and contribute to strategic priorities at regional and national scales by 2030.
Overarching	Undertake mapping of opportunities for creating local-authority-wide Nature Networks by 2030.
Overarching	Incorporate and embed Nature Networks into policy frameworks and decision-making processes as a component of Local Development Plans and Regional Land Use Partnerships nationally by 2030.
Overarching	Support local authorities in their land use decision making to deliver overall positive outcomes for biodiversity and the creation of nature networks, through developing toolkits, including a nature networks mapping tool and development of training by 2025.
Urban	Develop an open source platform for blue and green infrastructure and other nature assets in urban areas to support approaches to valuing and financing blue and green infrastructure.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Champion new planning and development measures for protecting and enhancing biodiversity
Overarching	Explore options for developing a biodiversity metric or related tool, specifically for use in Scotland.
Overarching	Raise awareness and promote the Developing with Nature guidance to support delivery of NPF4 policy 3c and develop user-friendly version of the guidance.
Overarching	Publish new guidance to support delivery of NPF4 (policy 3) biodiversity policy and to support wider work on building skills and capacity on biodiversity and nature across the planning system.
Urban	Include a requirement within the development management process (under NPF4) for management and maintenance plans for blue/green infrastructure to be routinely submitted (and finance secured) demonstrating how the design and maintenance of these areas will contribute to lasting positive effects for biodiversity.
Urban	Develop a consistent approach to assessing existing and potential biodiversity value of green and blue spaces and measuring, monitoring and demonstrating long-term positive effects for biodiversity and agreed approach to standardised monitoring has been provided to Local Authorities by 2030.
Soils	Ensure that information on soil health is considered in planning decisions, to support development proposals that protect soil from damage, and that minimise soil sealing and enhance soil quality.
Soils	Provide guidance for Scottish Planning Authorities on sustainable use and management of soil in planning processes (2030).
Uplands and Peatlands	Ensure that development relating to renewables and essential infrastructure provides positive effects for upland biodiversityand peatland habitats, by developing clear guidance on NPF4 requirements for delivering positive effects for biodiversity.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Enhance biodiversity in Scotland's green and blue spaces
Urban	Prepare and implement nature-positive amenity grassland management strategies for the public estate in town and cities by 2030, incorporating improved technical guidance for practitioners and access to suitable machinery for local authorities.
Urban	By 2030 broker the agreement of a National Charter with all stakeholders for nature-positive green and blue space management which includes a definition of 'nature-rich places' as part of a national campaign to increase awareness of more nature-positive green and blue space management.
Urban	Every local authority should consider the need toprepare and implement a vision for surface water management including appropriate actions for blue green infrastructure by 2030.
Urban	Every new transport and active travel infrastructure project should incorporate elements of blue-green infrastructure (and seek opportunities for enhancing/expanding blue green infrastructure) by 2030.
Urban	Prepare and implement Wee Forest Vision and Delivery Plan.
Urban	Work with social housing providers, developers and homeowners to promote and share good practice for residential gardens to better support biodiversity by 2030.

Question 2d: Have we captured the key actions needed to deliver the objective: protect nature on land and at sea across and beyond protected areas?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2e: Are the key actions, to support the objective: protect nature on land and at sea across and beyond protected areas, sufficient to put Scotland on track to ending the loss of biodiversity by 2030?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2f: Which actions do you think will have most impact?

Please state the actions and explain the reasons for your response:

Chapter 4

Objective 3: Embed Nature Positive Farming, Fishing and Forestry

These Actions align with CBD Goal A and Targets 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6.

70% of Scotland's land is classified as agricultural land and woodlands and forestry cover 19% percent. We won't halt biodiversity loss and address the impacts of climate change without significant changes to the way we use and manage these resources.

Farming

Historically incentives have supported a model of production which often had a negative impact on biodiversity.

The Vision for Scottish Agriculture puts biodiversity upfront alongside other key outcomes. We will transform how we support farming and food production in Scotland to become a global leader in sustainable and regenerative agriculture.

We recognise that many farmers and crofters already support and enhance biodiversity and we want to build on that. Over 3,000 farms for example are tackling the nature-climate emergency with the support of funding from the Agri-environment Climate Scheme (AECS).

This delivery plan includes actions which will be incorporated into the new agricultural support system to help farmers and crofters transition to practices generating substantial regeneration in biodiversity, ecosystem and soil health and significantly reduce carbon emissions, while sustaining high-quality food production.

This will align with the Agricultural Reform route map and build on existing support, for example, through AECS, actions such as soil testing under Preparing for Sustainable Farming, our partnership work with NatureScot through Farming with Nature and the advice and support available under the Farm Advisory Service.

Forestry

Scotland is leading the way on forestry. Forest and woodland cover in Scotland has increased from a post-industrial low of around 5% to 19%. While our productive forests provide carbon and biodiversity benefits, the urgency of the nature crisis demands this is increasingly matched by an improvement in the quality of nature in forests and an expansion of natural regeneration. Large-scale action is now needed to reduce the negative impacts from grazing, invasive species, climate change and novel pests and pathogens. We need to improve the biodiversity benefits from all woodlands, with a specific focus needed on our most valued and protected natural woodlands.

Fishing

Scotland's Marine Assessment 2020 identified direct pressures on the condition of the marine environment in Scotland's seas associated with bottom contacting and other fishing across the majority of marine regions around Scotland. The actions in this plan reflect and build on Scotland's Fisheries Management Strategy's vision for delivering responsible and sustainable fisheries management. Collectively, delivery of these actions will support the implementation of an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management that minimises adverse impacts on non-target habitats and species.

Key actions

The set of detailed actions underpinning Objective 3 are set out in the Table below. Most significantly we will:

• Ensure increased uptake of high diversity, nature-rich, high soil-carbon, low intensity farming methods while sustaining high quality food production.
• Introduce an agricultural support framework which delivers for nature restoration and biodiversity alongside climate and food production outcomes.
• Shift at least half of all funding for farming and crofting from unconditional to conditional support by 2025 with recipients of support to deliver on targeted outcomes for biodiversity gain and low emissions production.
• Ensure that forests and woodlands deliver increased biodiversity and habitat connectivity alongside timber and carbon outcomes.
• Implement further fisheries measures in vulnerable marine ecosystems and Priority Marine Features outside of MPAs.
• Implement a sustainable approach to sea fisheries, using best available scientific advice, and minimising adverse impacts on non-target species and habitats.
• Implement Scotland's vision for sustainable aquaculture to minimise negative impacts on biodiversity.

Landscape/Seascape Code	Action
	Ensure increased uptake of high diversity, nature-rich, high soil-carbon, low intensity farming methods while sustaining high quality food production
Overarching	By 2030 increase the uptake of integrated pest management across Scottish agriculture to minimise risks and impacts of pesticides to the environment in line with the UK National Action Plan on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides.
Soils	Revise and update Scotland's Soil Framework and action/implementation plan by 2030.
Soils	Develop evidence-based Soil Health Indicators (SHIs) that can be considered for inclusion in Whole Farm Plans and forest management plans.
Agriculture	Undertake an evidence-based update of information/advice on biodiversity management currently available to farmers/land managers to ensure it is up-to-date, clear and easily accessible by 2030.
Soils	Improve information for land managers on how to assess soil erosion risks and implement measures to avoid erosion (and other impacts on soil health related to climate change), including: i) raising awareness about the impacts of extreme rainfall / drought events on soils; and ii) mapping soils that have been subject to anthropogenic degradation and are candidates for soil improvement programmes by 2027/28.
Soils	Develop and promote clear guidance for practitioners on soil compaction and ensure that by 2030 farm and forestry machinery contractors are engaged in ensuring appropriate use of equipment, uptake of decision-making tools and training, to minimise and ultimately avoid compaction damage to soils.
Soils	Set up monitoring frameworks to assess change in soil health, based on evidence from the Strategic Research Programme (2022-2027).
Freshwater	Reduce inputs of nutrients to freshwaters that cause enrichment impacts on biodiversity, by controlling diffuse pollution through effective nutrient management under agricultural reform and priority catchment work under RBMP (current plan 2022 – 2027); and by controlling point sources through the Controlled Activities Regulations (CAR).

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Introduce an agricultural support framework which delivers for nature restoration and biodiversity alongside climate and food production outcomes
Agriculture	From 2025 farmers and crofters will be required to adopt the following practices as the foundations of the whole farm planning approach to qualify for agricultural payments: soil testing, animal health and welfare declarations, carbon audits, biodiversity audits and supported effective business planning.
Agriculture	Implement actions specifically benefitting farmland species as part of ongoing support and the new agricultural payments framework by 2030, backed by advisory support.
Soils	Adjust rural support mechanisms to incorporate requirements to protect and enhance soil health, promote control of soil erosion/compaction and maintain/ enhance soil organic matter through appropriate balance of input/outputs and nutrient levels.
Agriculture	Ensure that rural support mechanisms incorporate a mandatory requirement for a farm-level biodiversity audit in return for support, moving towards shifting 50% of direct payments for farming and crofting to climate action and funding for on farm nature restoration and enhancement by 2025.
Agriculture	Ensure that farmers and crofters can access tools, information and advice necessary to produce an integrated biodiversity audit as part of the Whole Farm Plan from 2025 as a pre-requisite to claiming support.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Implement further fisheries measures in vulnerable marine ecosystems and to protect Priority Marine Features outside MPAs
Marine	Deliver further fisheries management measures for Priority Marine Features identified as most at risk from bottom-contacting mobile fishing gear outwith MPAs by 2025.
Marine	Introduce fisheries closures to protect Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems in offshore waters between 400-800m depth by 2027.
Marine	Identify high-risk areas and/or gear types for bycatch and entanglement of sensitive marine species.
Marine	Develop and implement a suite of technical and spatial measures to reduce levels of discarding of 'unwanted' fish catch alongside measures to reduce bycatch of sensitive marine species to ensure sustainable fisheries. Consultation on measures in 2023/24 with implementation by 2026.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Implement a sustainable approach to sea fisheries management, using best available scientific advice and minimising adverse impacts on non-target species and habitats
Marine	Consult on implementing the inshore cap and options for other sustainable fishing management controls.
Marine	Develop 21 Fisheries Management Plans (as set out in the Joint Fisheries Statement) to increase or maintain sustainability of fish stocks.
Marine	Work with stakeholders to focus on identifying practical, achievable actions to reduce pressure on habitats most at risk or most extensively impacted by 2028.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Implement Scotland's vision for sustainable aquaculture to minimise negative impacts on biodiversity
Marine	Support SEPA in the implementation of the sea lice risk assessment framework, starting to apply the framework to applications for proposed new farms and expansions of existing farms in the second half of 2023.
Marine	Review the technical standards for fin fish farmers and support work towards zero escapes from farms by 2024.
Marine	Continue to support the implementation of the farmed fish health framework up to 2028.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Ensure that forests and woodlands deliver increased biodiversity and habitat connectivity alongside timber and carbon outcomes
Woodlands	Update woodland management guidance and plans (between 2023 and 2030) to reflect greater emphasis on actions that will improve biodiversity including use of elements from Site Condition Monitoring and Woodland Ecological Condition (WEC) monitoring.
Woodlands	Restructure woodlands during restocking. Undertake management interventions to incorporate a greater diversity of species, habitats and structure that benefit biodiversity and allow achievement of other forestry management objectives.
Woodlands	Increase biodiversity through diversifying age and species mixes, increasing woodland extent and connectivity (and edge habitat), increasing deadwood, and managing grazing and browsing to help facilitate natural regeneration and development of a ground/shrub layer as part of Sustainable Forest Management.
Freshwater	Identify site appropriate riparian buffers using an evidence based approach and implement them through a range of mechanisms including the agricultural reform programme, forestry grants and private restoration initiatives by 2027.

Question 2g: Have we captured the key actions needed to deliver the objective: embed nature positive farming, fishing and forestry?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2h: Are the key actions, to support the objective: embed nature positive farming, fishing and forestry, sufficient to put Scotland on track to ending the loss of biodiversity by 2030?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2i: Which actions do you think will have most impact?

Please state the actions and explain the reasons for your response:

Chapter 5

Objective 4: Protect and Support the Recovery of Vulnerable and Important Species and Habitats

These Actions align with CBD Goal A and Target 4.

Scotland has approximately 90,000 species often of international importance. These include many species of mosses, liverworts and lichens, seabirds, raptors, waders, marine mammals, the elasmobranchs (more commonly known as sharks, skates and rays) and wild salmon.

However, our species are vulnerable to the loss and degradation of habitats, to climate change impacts and to outbreaks of disease. The 2021/22 outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) had a significant effect on wild bird populations. Approximately 20,500 dead seabirds were reported across 160 locations between April and September 2022, with the highest mortality reported in gannets, great skuas, common guillemots, kittiwakes, terns and large gulls. Important wintering populations of wildfowl were also severely affected with an estimated 13,200 Svalbard barnacle geese (around one third of the migratory or "flyway" population) dying in Winter 2021/22.

Restoring and regenerating ecosystems and habitats (Objective 1) is the foundation for regenerating and strengthening the resilience of biodiversity at scale. But this will take time – time which many vulnerable species do not have. We will therefore complement our actions to regenerate our seas and landscapes with actions targeted at specific species. This will build on recent success in this area with the recovery of sea eagles, golden eagles and the recent translocations of beavers.

Key Actions

The set of detailed actions underpinning Objective 4 are set out in the Table below. Most significantly we will:

• Revise the Scottish Biodiversity List of species and habitats that Ministers consider to be of principal importance for biodiversity conservation in Scotland. By identifying the species and habitats that are of the highest priority for biodiversity conservation, the Scottish Biodiversity List helps public bodies apply their biodiversity duty. NatureScot and eNGOs have collated data on species vulnerability in Scotland into the Species at Risk database. This work provides an evidence-based link between vulnerable species, known pressures driving decline and their ecosystems, and is a strong foundation for prioritising species based on risk of extirpation or extinction of endemics. Revision of the Priority Marine Feature (PMF) list is a separate process, and we will adopt the revised PMF list by the end of 2025. Inclusion of habitats and species on the PMF list helps to focus marine conservation action, and also provides policy protection through the National Marine Plan.
• Develop effective species recovery, reintroduction and reinforcement programmes. The Species at Risk database will support an evaluation of actions to deliver biodiversity recovery through ecosystem management or targeted species action. This includes an assessment of likelihood of success and level of investment required. This work will inform the development of a prioritised list of species conservation, recovery, reintroduction and reinforcement programmes including support for surveillance and monitoring to manage pathogens and disease, for example, as identified by the Avian Flu Task Force. The Species on the Edge programme is an outstanding example of partnership working to restore biodiversity.
• Manage existing and emerging pressures to improve the conservation of seabirds, marine mammals and elasmobranchs – Work is ongoing to complete the Scottish Seabird Conservation Strategy. The Strategy will set out the actions required to address the key pressures on seabird populations, including those related to climate change. The UK dolphin and porpoise conservation strategy is being revised following public consultation and once published it will provide the framework for taking forward key actions.Alongside seabirds and marine mammals, elasmobranchs (sharks, skates and rays) make up the top three globally threatened marine species groups. Targeted research and management actions will be developed to help improve the status of elasmobranchs in Scotland's seas.
• Implement measures to protect and recover Scotland's wild Atlantic salmon and migratory fish populations – The Scottish Wild Salmon Strategy sets out the vision, objectives and priority themes for action to ensure the protection and recovery of wild Atlantic salmon populations in Scotland. It is supported by an Implementation Plan. Measures to protect European eel are contained within the EUMCe9mYlKTmaE%3D&reserved=0">Eel Management Plan for the UK.

Landscape/Seascape Code	Action
	Revise Scotland's list of priority species and habitats for biodiversity conservation
Overarching	Revise the Scottish Biodiversity List of species and habitats that consider to be of principal importance for biodiversity conservation in Scotland.
Overarching	Undertake a review of NatureScot's licensing approach for species conservation and management, consider outcomes and develop a programme to implement recommendations by 2024.
Marine	Adopt a revised Priority Marine Feature list at the end of 2025 to align with National Marine Plan 2.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Develop effective species recovery, reintroduction and reinforcement programmes
Overarching	Develop effective species recovery, reintroduction and reinforcement programmes drawing on partnership work on Species at Risk prioritisation, Species on the Edge programme, and evaluation of drivers. For example, continue to support and build upon existing strategies and schemes to protect and expand populations of species such as capercaillie, red squirrel, sea eagle, golden eagle and Eurasian beaver.
Overarching	Develop and implement national plans for conserving species groups for which Scotland holds internationally important populations such as lichens, bryophytes, freshwater pearl mussels, and wetland waders.
Overarching	Undertake measures to reduce human pressures to give habitats and species (especially specialists; arctic/alpine) more chance of surviving and improve the status of red listed species in Scotland.
Overarching	Map genetic diversity risks across Scotland and ensure mitigating genetic diversity risks across Protected Areas and OECMs are included within Biodiversity Action Plans to reduce risks in protected areas by 2030.
Overarching	Raise public awareness of science and practice around conservation translocations through public engagement by 2030.
Overarching	The Better Biodiversity Data project will develop and build upon the first steps in a strategic approach to the collection, collation and sharing of biological data across Scotland; use of citizen science for monitoring key species will increase.
Overarching	Support surveillance and monitoring to manage pathogens and disease risks.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Manage existing and emerging pressures to improve the conservation status of seabirds, marine mammals and elasmobranchs
Marine	Develop and publish a Scottish Seabird Conservation Strategy by 2025 which will deliver action to conserve and increase the resilience of seabird populations.
Marine	Increase promotion of, and compliance with, the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code.
Marine	Consider the requirement for marine management action to address cumulative impacts of wildlife tourism in key locations by 2027.
Marine	Begin implementation of actions relevant to Scotland in the UK Dolphin and Porpoise Conservation Strategy by 2025.
Marine	Review the approach to and locations of designated seal haul-out sites to ensure important locations are protected by 2026.
Marine	Develop and implement management actions to improve the status of elasmobranchs in Scotland's waters by 2028 and continue to build the evidence base for elasmobranchs in Scottish waters including: distribution, essential fish habitat, population abundance and social interactions.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Implement measures to protect and recover Scotland's wild Atlantic salmon and migratory fish populations
Marine and Freshwater	Deliver the actions set out in the Wild salmon strategy Implementation plan 2023-2028 to improve habitat and reduce pressures on salmon and other fish species.
Marine	Undertake research on post-smolt and adult Atlantic salmon migration routes around Scottish coastal areas, and the use of estuarine and coastal habitats by sea trout, shad (Allis & Tawite), smelt, river and sea lamprey and European eel.

Question 2j: Have we captured the key actions needed to deliver the objective: protect and support the recovery of vulnerable and important species and habitats?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2k: Are the key actions, to support the objective: protect and support the recovery of vulnerable and important species and habitats, sufficient to put Scotland on track to ending the loss of biodiversity by 2030?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2l: Which actions do you think will have most impact?

Please state the actions and explain the reasons for your response:

Chapter 6

Objective 5 – Invest in Nature

These Actions align with CBD Goal D and Target 19.

To meet the pace and scale of delivering our ambitious biodiversity targets we know that more investment is required. The Scottish Government has increased public investment in nature restoration in recent years, and is now making considerable large scale public investments in nature with the ambitious Nature Restoration Fund and Peatland ACTION fund. Future support for agriculture and the rural economy will also increasingly be designed to deliver nature recovery and to mitigate, and adapt Scotland to, climate change. Forthcoming Scottish Government research will seek to understand more fully the costs of delivering the ambitions of the Biodiversity Strategy.

There has been a significant increase in interest from private investors in nature restoration in Scotland. Our priority is ensuring that such investment is made as part of a values-led, high-integrity market for responsible private investment in natural capital. The Interim Principles for Responsible Investment in Natural Capital sets out the Scottish Government's ambitions for, and expectations of, responsible private investment. These will deliver for economic transformation, climate change and biodiversity, provide community benefits, and support a Just Transition.

The Interim Principles for Responsible Investment in Natural Capital sets out the Scottish Government's ambitions for, and expectations of, responsible private investment. These will deliver for economic transformation, climate change and biodiversity, provide community benefits, and support a Just Transition.

The Scottish Government, NatureScot and the National Heritage Lottery Fund recently launched a 'Facility for Investment Ready Nature in Scotland' (FIRNS) fund. FIRNS will support projects that shape and grow private investment and market-based mechanisms to finance the restoration of Scotland's nature. Grants of up to £240,000 will be offered to help develop a viable business case and financial model, to attract investment in suitable projects.

The Flow Country Green Finance Initiative is a locally led partnership seeking to raise public and private funds to restore peatlands at scale. It aims to achieve a multi-use landscape where healthy and restored peatlands support globally significant biodiversity and climate protection, and a lively and prosperous region with high quality jobs. The region is also being considered for allocation of world heritage status by UNESCO.

Key Actions

The set of detailed actions underpinning Objective 5 are set out in the Table below. Most significantly we will:

• Develop with partners and stakeholders a Biodiversity Investment Plan. This will set out the strategic priorities for public investment through the Nature Restoration Fund and other public funds and where we can deliver best value for money. For example, investing in INNS prevention gives higher economic returns than trying to eradicate an invasive species after it arrives.
• Establish a values-led, high-integrity market for responsible private investment in natural capital. This will include continuing to develop and enhance the woodland and peatland carbon codes to attract and assist additional investment and develop other codes where appropriate. Explore options for the use of biodiversity credits to secure increased levels of responsible private investment in nature including through CivTech Challenge 8.6.
• Explore options for attracting private finance to support the restoration of Scotland's iconic Rainforest (Chapter 2).
• Increase investment in SMEEF">Scotland's Marine Environmental Enhancement Fund(SMEEF) and investment in activities that help restore Scotland's coast and seas.
• Provide direction on, and investment in, green skills and local economic opportunities supporting nature-based education, nature restoration skills and volunteering – Financial investment alone will not deliver the transformational change needed to halt biodiversity loss. We will invest in Scotland's workforce and support the development of nature restoration skills as part of a Just Transition.

Landscape/Seascape Code	Action
	Drive increased investment in Biodiversity and Nature Restoration
Overarching	Develop a Biodiversity Investment Plan for Scotland which supports the delivery of the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy.
Overarching	Maintain and seek to increase investment in nature restoration through our £65 million Nature Restoration Fund.
Uplands and Peatlands	Develop the targeting of peatland restoration for cost-effective delivery (i.e. identifying priority restoration projects) including for greater private investment in peatland restoration.
Uplands and Peatlands	Scale delivery of the Peatland Action programme, restoring the condition of peatlands as a key ecosystem in line with Net Zero targets and supporting the expansion and upskilling of the peatland restoration workforce.
Freshwater	Explore and promote complementary funding streams to the Water Environment Fund to restore rivers, particularly in rural environments.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Establish a values-led, high-integrity market for responsible private investment in natural capital
Overarching	Align the development of high integrity value led markets for responsible private investment in natural capital with the development of public funding streams for biodiversity (e.g. new agricultural support payments, peatland action, etc.) so that we 'crowd in' private investment rather than 'crowding out'.
Overarching	Support the development of mechanisms for responsible private investment in biodiversity and development of biodiversity credits (e.g. through Civtech Challenge 8.6 and the Investment Readiness Fund).
Overarching	Create a pipeline of investable nature recovery projects ready to meet demand from responsible buyers and investors in natural capital based markets.
Overarching	Develop and support a Community of Practice within the Facility for Investment Ready Nature in Scotland to demonstrate what does and does not work through the sharing of new knowledge and approaches.
Overarching	Support the development of Woodland Carbon Code/Peatland Code for improved biodiversity benefits and the development of new codes with direct or associated biodiversity benefits.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Increase investment in Scotland's coastal and marine environments
Marine and Coastal	Increase the investment in activities that help restore Scotland's coasts and seas by 2028.
Marine and Coastal	Increase investment in Scotland's Marine Environmental Enhancement Fund (SMEEF) and the benefits delivered to Scotland's coasts and seas.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Provide direction on, and investment in, green skills and local economic opportunities supporting nature-based education, nature restoration skills and volunteering
Agriculture	Establish supported nationwide information and advice for land managers on biodiversity management including best practice and innovation through the complimentary tier of the new agricultural payment framework.
Uplands and Peatlands	Develop guidance to support a programme of training/education for land managers to support best practice on: peatland and woodland restoration; deer and livestock management; integrated land management best practice; and, species and habitat management.

Question 2m: Have we captured the key actions needed to deliver the objective: invest in nature?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2n: Are the key actions, to support the objective: invest in nature, sufficient to put Scotland on track to ending the loss of biodiversity by 2030?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2o: Which actions do you think will have most impact?

Please state the actions and explain the reasons for your response:

Chapter 7

Objective 6: Take Action on the Indirect Drivers of Biodiversity Loss

These Actions align with CBD Goal B and Targets 14, 15, 16 and 18.

The IPBES Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services sets out the drivers of biodiversity loss, including the five 'direct drivers' of loss which are prominently covered in chapters 2 – 6; and the equally important 'indirect drivers' of biodiversity loss. The latter are the key underlying causes of biodiversity loss and they include aspects of our culture and behaviour, demography, economy and governance, institutions, and technology. The IPBES report have identified these to be people's disconnect with nature and the consequent lack of recognition for the value and importance of nature. This manifests itself in unsustainable production and consumption patterns. The relationship between the direct and underlying drivers is important. Attempts to fix the direct drivers without addressing the underlying indirect causes will be inefficient or likely to fail.[10]

These indirect drivers transcend a wide range of policy areas. The Environment Strategy provides the overarching framework for tackling many of the indirect drivers of biodiversity loss. It aims for a just transition to a net zero, nature-positive Scotland with a circular economy. Of primary importance are Scotland's Climate Change Plan and Scotland's forthcoming Climate Adaptation Programme – Nature and Nature based Solutions are at the heart of these. The majority of climate change policy commitments and actions tackle the indirect drivers of biodiversity loss specifically unsustainable production and consumption patterns. For example, of the 61 specific climate change risks set out in the Climate Change Risk Assessment, to which the upcoming Climate Adaptation Programme will respond to, at least a third of risks need a nature-based response.

New commitments and legislation on the circular economy will be key to addressing unsustainable production and consumption patterns. Across all of what we do – we need a new approach for building society's awareness of the importance of Nature, strengthening the systems and mechanisms we have for valuing Nature and engaging communities and society in the identification and implementation of solutions – all fundamental for a Just Transition. Actions on the indirect drivers require influencing 'levers of change' (e.g. strategies, plans, policies, legislation, guidance, standards, and regulations).

Key Actions

The set of detailed actions underpinning Objective 6 are set out in the Table below. Most significantly we will:

• Engage and strengthen the connection between people and communities and nature – We must widen public awareness and increase understanding of the actions needed to protect and restore nature on land and sea. We will provide more opportunities for people to experience and care for nature so that people's understanding of the role of nature in our daily lives is improved. Nature positive developments and stewardship of public, community and private land are vital to ensure far more people are actively working for nature recovery – and reaping the rewards.
• Embed biodiversity and nature in curriculum development – Knowledge of nature must be seen as key to prioritise decisions ahead, not just as a subset of science. Major changes are underway in the education system. Implementation of these reforms and plans provides the opportunity to embed the values, attitudes, knowledge, skills and confidence needed across all sectors to develop practices and take decisions which are compatible with a sustainable and more equitable future. These competencies, as well as a range of practical skills will be essential to Scotland reaching its climate and nature targets.
• Mainstream and integrate biodiversity policy across government and address unsustainable supply and demand to reduce biodiversity impacts – In Scotland the Environment Strategy has begun to tackle the global footprint of consumption and the challenges and opportunities of shifting to a wellbeing economy. Implementation of actions emphasise the importance of Just Transition and changing patterns of consumption across a wide range of topics.

The Scottish Government's National Performance Framework can support this step change. Subject to final decisions on the Government's future legislative programmes, proposed legislation on land reform, well-being, and sustainable development and human rights to a healthy environment will provide the statutory framework to support it. Starting with the forthcoming National Marine Plan 2, further effort is needed in the marine environment to ensure biodiversity and sustainable developments are effectively built into decision making at all levels.

• Address unsustainable supply and demand to reduce biodiversity impacts Halting the loss of biodiversity requires action beyond traditional conservation and management measures. Recent research has pointed to the importance of sustainable natural resource consumption and trade, reduced food waste and more plant-based human diets having major positive influences on halting biodiversity loss by 2050. This also has relevance to the Environment Strategy for Scotland.
• Make Space for Nature Running campaigns to encourage and support people to:

Encourage nature into our lives

• Provide water and homes for wildlife
• Plant hedgerows and creating gaps in fences
• Avoid using artificial grass, paving or decking

Give our time for nature

• Undertake regular citizen science activity
• Join a conservation volunteer group
• Encourage positive action for nature by public and private sectors

Reduce our impact on nature

• Use only peat-free garden products
• Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
• Take the steps we can to reduce our carbon foot print each year

Landscape/Seascape Code	Action
	Engage and strengthen the connection between people and communities with nature
Overarching	Develop a communication and engagement programme by 2024 to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of biodiversity and its links to climate change and the changes needed to ensure a just transition to a net zero and nature positive Scotland.
Overarching	Increase public connection and action for nature through expanding the reach of the Make Space for Nature campaign and develop a national nature volunteer and citizen science frameworks by 2025.
Overarching	Encourage more community ownership of local and national nature reserves and other land managed for nature by 2030 by promoting best practice and helping to build capacity.
Marine	Work with stakeholders to complete a review of opportunities for increasing community participation in safeguarding marine biodiversity by 2026. Secure resources and begin piloting new approaches by 2028.
Marine	Promote and interpret new evidence and understanding relating to climate change and its relevance to Scotland's marine biodiversity to ensure good understanding by the general public.
Soils	Promote Scotland's Geodiversity Charter and raise awareness of the role of geodiversity in the delivery of valuable geosystem services that serve the needs of biodiversity conservation and restoration by 2024.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Embed biodiversity and nature in curriculum development
Overarching	Progress delivery of the outdoor learning elements of the Learning for Sustainability Action Plan, including nature connectedness and learning, to meet Target 2030 so every 3 – 16 place of education becomes a Sustainable Learning Setting.
Overarching	Explore opportunities to further develop Curriculum for Excellence nature-based resources, and prepare new material on nature and nature based solutions to be included in the new Learning for Sustainability portal by 2027.
Overarching	Publish an Update to the Climate Emergency Skills Action Plan by the end of 2023 to ensure it remains in line with our economic and climate ambitions.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Mainstream and integrate biodiversity policy across government
Overarching	Increase the effectiveness of mainstreaming biodiversity on land and at sea through: The National Planning Framework Agricultural Reform Programme Climate Adaptation Programme Land Reform Programme Scotland's National Strategy for Economic Transformation Climate Change Plan National Marine Plan 2 Progress by 2026, the mainstreaming of biodiversity including through the review of the National Performance Framework.
Marine	Develop our understanding within government and more widely of the application of just transition principles in moving towards a nature positive blue economy alongside net zero commitments.
Marine Marine and Coastal	Develop a decision-making framework within NMP2 that supports marine ecosystem recovery through appropriate management of other supported marine activities by 2026. Develop policies and objectives within NMP2 that support the mitigation of and adaptation to the impacts of climate change by 2026.

 

Landscape/Seascape Code	Address unsustainable supply and demand to reduce biodiversity impacts
Overarching	Ensure the range of actions to tackle biodiversity loss and deliver a circular economy (through the Circular Economy Bill and Circular Economy & Waste Route Map) are complementary and co-ordinated.
Overarching	Support global and regional efforts to enable business to more effectively monitor and report on their national and global impacts on biodiversity.
Overarching	Review the Biodiversity Duty Reporting system by 2024, with a view to aligning with climate change reporting including consideration of voluntary engagement by business sector.
Overarching	Subject to final decisions on the Government's future legislative programmes, place specific requirements on public bodies and local government through Bills on Land Reform, Wellbeing and Sustainable Development, and the incorporation of the human right to a healthy environment in the Human Rights Bill to: - assess and act to reduce the impact of their decisions (including procurement) to achieve sustainable development goals, - act in an inclusive, public and transparent manner, and - build the human right to a healthy environment into decision making and in time, comply with the right, to ensure healthy ecosystems and biodiversity in Scotland.
Marine	Work in partnership with the fishing industry to deliver fishing practices that are consistent with receiving accreditation.
Marine	Develop a climate change audit / impact assessment approach for marine policy making to ensure the most recent evidence is taken into account by 2028.

Question 2p: Have we captured the key actions needed to deliver the objective: take action on the indirect drivers of biodiversity loss?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2q: Are the key actions, to support the objective: take action on the indirect drivers of biodiversity loss, sufficient to put Scotland on track to ending the loss of biodiversity by 2030?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Please explain the reasons for your response:

Question 2r: Which actions do you think will have most impact?

Please state the actions and explain the reasons for your response:

Section Three: Nature Networks Policy Framework

Introduction

Improving ecological connectivity to create fully functioning, healthy and robust ecosystems, where animal and plant species can move and adapt to pressures is a critical part of the nature restoration agenda. Nature Networks can bring benefits to nature and people, such as clean water, flood mitigation, natural cooling and health and wellbeing. A framework for Scotland's Nature Networks was developed through a co-design process with over 100 organisations and individuals representing a diverse range of interests. The full draft Policy Framework and outputs of the co-design workshops can be found on the Nature Scot website.

Our shared vision for Nature Networks is:

By 2030 Scotland will have evolving, flexible and resilient Nature Networks connecting nature-rich areas allowing wildlife and natural processes to move and adapt to land use and climate change pressures. The networks will help build people's connection to nature, providing biodiversity-rich spaces that deliver local benefits, and meet the priorities of local communities for nature.

Nature Networks will be developed as long term features of local and regional landscapes, which support nature restoration and provide multiple benefits for society. The guiding principles to be used by implementation partners in delivering Nature Networks are:

Delivering Nature Networks

• Nature Networks will be delivered from the bottom up, addressing local needs and objectives in support of national outcomes for nature and people.

Governance and decision making

• Governance of Nature Networks will be transparent, democratic and accountable and with inclusive and diverse representation. There will be a focus on empowering and equipping delivery partners from across sectors.

Participation, engagement and communication

• Engagement with partnerships and communities will be inclusive and empowering.
• Communications will include simple and unifying messaging on Nature Networks with a focus on building people's connection with, and fostering a stewardship of, nature.
• Scotland's public bodies will be exemplars, supporting the delivery of Nature Networks on their land.

Knowledge and skills

• Nature Networks will be developed using and sharing local knowledge, experience and best-practice and will support the growth of green skills and jobs.

Data, mapping and monitoring

• We will be adaptive in our approach to delivering Nature Networks and use the opportunity to improve our understanding of developing effective ecological connectivity.
• Monitoring approaches for Nature Networks will be developed with, and for, stakeholders to inform management and action that maximises effectiveness of the network.
• We will employ innovation and best practice in data collection, management and use.
• Mapping and use of data will be collaborative and holistic in approach.

Finance and resources

• Public and private finance and funding will be delivered through properly resourced, clearly directed, long-term, simple and accessible means.
• Funding and finance will be based on the principles of fairness, trust and transparency through collaborative working.
• Funding and finance vehicles will be coherent and will continue to be maintained.

Policy and Mainstreaming

• Policy and planning levers will be used to safeguard Nature Networks and provide long term assurance
• Coherence across the policy landscape will be maintained.
• Mainstreaming Nature Networks, and wider biodiversity targets, at all levels of government and across the whole of society to encourage shared responsibility, efficient use of resources and delivery of multiple benefits (additionality)

We are working on a Nature Networks toolbox which will be a 'live' resource for delivery partners to facilitate the design and implementation of nature networks at the local and regional level. Further work on next steps – including engagement with specific groups, e.g. Local Authorities – will continue over the coming months.

Question 3a: Do you have any comments on the Nature Networks Framework?

Please provide any comments:

Section Four: 30 by 30 Policy Framework

Introduction

The Global Biodiversity Framework included a commitment to ensure that at least 30% of land and sea is effectively conserved for nature by 2030. The full definition is stated as Target 3 in the UN Convention on Biological Diversity's (CBD) Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) reads;

Ensure and enable that by 2030 at least 30 per cent of terrestrial, inland water, and of coastal and marine areas, especially areas of particular importance for biodiversity and ecosystem functions and services, are effectively conserved and managed through ecologically representative, well-connected and equitably governed systems of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures, recognizing indigenous and traditional territories, where applicable, and integrated into wider landscapes, seascapes and the ocean, while ensuring that any sustainable use, where appropriate in such areas, is fully consistent with conservation outcomes, recognizing and respecting the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities, including over their traditional territories.

30 by 30 in Scotland

All of society has a role to play in delivering this commitment and Scotland is committed to working with communities and stakeholders to develop an implementation route map. The first step has been to co-design a policy framework which sets out the vision and a set of guiding principles. The 30 by 30 draft Policy Framework and outputs of the co-design workshops can viewed on the Nature Scot website.

The co-design process involved over 100 organisations and individuals representing a diverse range of interests. Through these discussions the following Vision for 30 by 30 in Scotland was agreed:

By 2030 at least 30% of Scotland's land will be protected or conserved for biodiversity, delivering for people and climate. Sites showcase the best in nature restoration, protection and in mitigating and adapting to climate change. They help protect the rare and vulnerable, as well as delivering diverse, complex, and resilient ecosystems that provide important services that benefit everyone far into the future. These 30 by 30 sites are integrated into the wider landscape, acting as the beating, nature-rich hearts of Scotland's Nature Network and beyond.

Guiding Principles to Deliver 30 by 30 in Scotland

The co-design process enabled participants to first identify challenges and barriers to implementing 30 by 30 and then to develop the principles needed to overcome them.

Key Themes and Principles for Delivery of 30 by 30

Theme 1 – Site Selection, designation, safeguarding and governance

• Area-based conservation will provide adequate protection or conservation to the area of importance it covers.
• The approach to 30 by 30 sites will be simple, clear, transparent and flexible in governance and application.
• Approaches to the selection and objectives of 30 by 30 sites will be strategic, forward-looking and dynamic.

Theme 2 – Land Management

• Management must be adaptive, dynamic, and responsive, operating at the necessary scales (spatially and temporally).
• The policy and legislative landscape in Scotland will be integrated/coherent and better reflect the value of biodiversity to all of Scotland.
• Those responsible for the management of Scotland's land will be empowered to work collaboratively and equipped with skills needed to champion good management within their own sectors.

Theme 3 – Funding and Finance

• Established and prospective 30 by 30 sites will be considered as priorities for funding and investment.
• Public and private funding and finance will be delivered through properly resourced, clearly directed, long term simple and accessible means.
• Funding based on the principles of fairness, trust and transparency through collaborative working.
• Build and maintain coherence in statutory and public funding.

Theme 4 - Participation engagement and communication:

• The value of 30 by 30 sites for nature and people is clear.
• Collaboration is key.
• Land owning public bodies will manage their land to contribute towards 30 by 30.

Theme 5 - Monitoring

• Monitoring should prioritise the identification and assessment of the most important factors for maintaining the health and resilience of 30 by 30 sites, while also taking into account gaps in knowledge.
• Monitoring will be designed with and for stakeholders to ensure it is iterative and informs ongoing and adaptive land management decisions.
• Monitoring will use a combination of traditional methods and emerging technologies, with a focus on maximising the efficiency and effectiveness of data collection and analysis, while also ensuring that data quality and accuracy are maintained.
• Monitoring must meet national and international reporting obligations.

Theme 6 – Policy and Mainstreaming

Outputs from this theme of work were incorporated into the above themes with policy and mainstreaming requirements embedded into the specific areas of work.

Question 4a: Do you have any comments on the 30 by 30 Framework?

Please provide any comments:

Section Five: Impact Assessments - Part A

Introduction

In screening for Impact Assessment we have considered both the overarching Scottish Biodiversity Strategy (SBS), and the first five year Delivery Plan. With the exception of the Strategic Environment Assessment, much of the detail needed to carry out full impact assessments is not available at this stage, and in many cases specific impact assessments will need to be made as the policies to deliver upon each action are developed.

The implementation of actions to deliver upon the SBS does not sit in isolation, it involves a wide range of Scottish Government policy areas - including agriculture, forestry, marine, planning, peatlands and flooding, as well as biodiversity. There is also a strong link to Climate Change – both mitigation and adaptation - where nature-based solutions can often bring multiple benefits, for example to carbon capture and storage, flood mitigation, habitat restoration, biodiversity loss, and providing clean air and water. We are committed to reaching a nature-positive, net zero Scotland in a way that is fair, and leaves no-one behind, and Just Transition principles are at the heart of all that we do. This means that we are working together across policy areas, as well as with our local government colleagues, local communities and the whole of society, to ensure the benefits of addressing biodiversity loss are realised. This engagement helps to inform the various impact assessments, which in turn inform policy development.

Strategic Environmental Assessment

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is a method of considering and broadly evaluating the likely impact of a public plan, programme or strategy on the environment. A meaningful SEA can help to avoid or minimise any negative environmental impacts and enhance positive ones. Scottish public bodies or those exercising functions of a public character (Responsible Authorities) may prepare plans that are likely to have significant environment effects (either positive or negative). The Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 ('The 2005 Act'), requires them to undertake a SEA in such cases.

In Scotland, public bodies including the Scottish Government are required to assess, consult on, and monitor the likely impacts their plans, programmes and strategies will have on the environment. This helps to better protect the environment, aims to ensure that any development is sustainable and increases opportunities for public participation in decision-making.

A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Report has been prepared in relation to the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy and Delivery Plan, and will be consulted on alongside this consultation document.

The full SEA report is available here.

In relation to the Environmental Report for the Biodiversity Strategy and Delivery Plan, we are seeking your views on:

Question 5a: What are your views on the accuracy and scope of the environmental baseline set out in the environmental report?

Question 5b: What are your views on the predicted environmental effects as set out in the environmental report?

Question 5c: What are your views on the reasonable alternatives as set out in the environmental report?

Question 5d: What are your views on the proposals for mitigation and monitoring of the environmental effects set out in the environmental report?

Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment

Business and Regulatory Impact Assessments (BRIA) help to assess the likely costs, benefits and risks of any proposed primary or secondary legislation, voluntary regulation, codes of practice, guidance, or policy changes that may have an impact on the public, private or third sector. Following an initial screening of the SBS and the Delivery Plan we recognise that there are gaps relating to specific biodiversity actions, likely to include Nature Networks, Protected Areas, tackling INNS, etc., and will undertake a more detailed BRIA as these policies are further developed.

Due to the complex interaction between climate and biodiversity there is a need to integrate across policy areas and understand the effects of actions as set out in the SBS and Delivery Plan, the Climate Change Plan and the Climate Change Adaptation Plan, upon business; as well as where business can take advantage of the opportunities that nature restoration and climate adaptation bring. This complex interaction also includes Just Transition principles, i.e. the need for the private, public and third sector to adapt rapidly in making the transformational change needed. Further work on this complex area is needed and will need to consider any existing BRIA for specific policy drivers.

Question 5e: Do you think that any of the provisions in the SBS or Delivery Plan will have any adverse effects on business?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:

Question 5f: Are there any additional actions or changes to existing actions which can be taken through the Delivery Plan to benefit business?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:

Fairer Scotland Duty Assessment

The Fairer Scotland Duty is set out in legislation in Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. It came into force in Scotland from April 2018. It requires Scottish Ministers and named public bodies to actively consider what more can be done to reduce the 'inequalities of outcome' caused by 'socio-economic disadvantage' when making 'strategic decisions'. The Duty seeks to tackle socio-economic disadvantage and reduce the inequalities that are associated with being disadvantaged. This is a complex, multidimensional problem, closely related to poverty.

An initial screening on socio-economic impacts of the SBS has raised the potentially positive and negative impacts including:

• Access to affordable housing;
• Access to green space;

• Creation of green jobs.

Further analysis will be undertaken including gathering of supporting evidence and identification of mitigating actions which will be published alongside the final publication of the strategy.

Question 5g: Do you think that any of the provisions in the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy or Delivery Plan will have any adverse effects on socio-economic equality?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:.

Question 5h: Are there any additional actions or changes to existing actions which can be taken through the Delivery Plan to benefit socio-economic equality?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:

Equality Impact Assessment

An Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) is a tool to help to anticipate the needs of diverse groups when making decisions about projects, policy or service delivery. Conducting an EQIA helps to:

• Think about equality in the early stages of planning, which improves service delivery and employment practice.
• Ensure that no one is excluded from the delivery of our services and implementation of policies.
• Anticipate the consequences of our actions and consider the effects of our decisions on different communities, individuals or groups.
• Identify whether a business activity is likely to affect groups of people in different ways.
• Ensure decision-making includes a consideration of the actions that would help to avoid or mitigate any negative impacts on particular protected groups.

• Make decisions based on evidence.
• Meet our Equality Act 2010 Public Sector Equality Duty.

In carrying out the EQIA for the Strategy, the effects of implementing the policies were considered for the nine protected characteristics recognised in the Equality Act:

• Age
• Disability
• Sex
• Race
• Religion or Belief
• Gender Reassignment
• Sexual Orientation
• Marriage and Civil Partnership
• Pregnancy and Maternity

Due to the strategic nature of the SBS and Delivery Plan, we have undertaken an initial screening to assess specific impacts on people with protected characteristics. In delivering the SBS we assume the environment would be generally improved for all people across Scotland, by factors such as better natural flood management, actions to adapt to, and mitigate, the effects of climate change, and the requirement for green skills and jobs to support nature restoration. It is anticipated that EQIA requirements will be further assessed as the policies to deliver the actions in the Strategy and Delivery Plan are developed.

Question 5i: Do you think that any of the provisions in the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy or Delivery Plan, will have any adverse impacts on people with protected characteristics?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:

Question 5j: Are there any additional actions or changes to existing actions which can be taken through the Delivery Plan to benefit people with protected characteristics?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:

Islands Communities Impact Assessment

Scotland's islands have unique biodiversity, therefore in developing the SBS and associated Delivery Plan, consideration needs to be given to the particular habitats that occur on islands, and the species that inhabit the isles; as well as the people living and working in our island communities. It is a legal duty under the Island (Scotland) Act 2018, to consider any new policy, strategy or service, which is likely to have an effect on an island community - through the Island Communities Impact Assessment (ICIA).

Initial screening of the SBS and Delivery Plan actions indicates that the primary areas of impact to Island Communities centre around some of the elements set out in The National Islands Plan (2019) namely:

• Environmental wellbeing and biosecurity
• Climate change and Energy
• Empowered Island Communities and Strong Local Partnerships
• Education

Further assessment of the impact upon Island Communities on the individual actions set out in the Delivery Plan will be necessary as these policies are developed.

Question 5k: Do you think that any of the provisions in the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy or Delivery Plan, will have any adverse impacts on island communities?

• Yes

• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:

Question 5l: Are there any additional actions, or changes to existing actions, which can be taken through the Delivery Plan to ensure that there are no adverse effects for Island communities?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:

Child Rights and Wellbeing Impact Assessment

The Child Rights and Wellbeing Impact Assessment (CRWIA) is a process which identifies any anticipated impact on children's human rights and wellbeing of any:

• proposed decision, including budgeting decisions
• development of policies and services

A CRWIA asks a range of questions to encourage and guide thinking around potential impacts so that as policies and rationale for decision are developed, children's rights and welfare are fully considered, and mitigation can be considered if negative impacts are determined from the assessment. This includes questions around impact on:

• specific groups of children
• potential positive and negative impacts
• how children have been engaged to obtain their views and inform decisions made

Due to the strategic nature of the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy and Delivery Plan, it has only been possible to complete a partial CRWIA. This is because it is not possible to determine specific impacts on children's rights and welfare at this point. In delivering the SBS there is a general assumption that the environment for all would be improved as described previously. It is anticipated that full CRWIA will be developed as the policies to deliver the actions in the SBS and Delivery Plan are further developed.

Question 5m: Do you think that any of the provisions in the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy or Delivery Plan, will have any adverse impacts on child rights and wellbeing?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments:

Question 5n: Are there any additional actions or changes to existing actions which can be taken through the Delivery Plan to benefit child rights and wellbeing?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

If yes, please provide any comments: