Recovery Plan 11 transformative actions for nature in Scotland - RSPB
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ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 1 A Nature Recovery Plan 11 transformative actions for nature in Scotland
2 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 3
11 1 eliver a significant expansion in Scotland’s native
D
transformative
woodlands annually from 2020
2
actions for
Introduce new legislation to achieve sustainable, low-
impact fishing by the end of 2021
nature in 3 Implement licensing of driven grouse shooting by end
2021
Scotland 4 educe deer populations and maintain them at
R
sustainable levels through new or improved legislation by
the end of 2021
We must urgently prioritise and invest in nature’s
recovery to safeguard the future of our wildlife, 5 nsure that all new development is net positive for nature
E
through the National Planning Framework 4 in 2022
our societies and economies. Here we outline 11
high-impact interventions to restore nature in
Scotland. Delivering these actions would support
6 Include a Scottish Nature Network in the National
Planning Framework 4 in 2022, and deliver it by 2030
a resilient economy, help achieve our ambitious
climate targets and provide many wider benefits to
people, contributing to achieving the Sustainable
7 nd burning on peatland and the commercial extraction
E
and sale of peat for horticulture across Scotland by 2023
Development Goals in Scotland. Several of the
actions would also support a green recovery from the 8 Introduce and apply new rules to improve the use of
nitrogen by 2024
coronavirus crisis.
9 Establish a Scottish Invasive Non-Native Species
Inspectorate by 2025
10 ransform Scottish agricultural policy by 2027 so that
T
it facilitates and rewards nature- and climate-friendly
farming
11 ommit to at least 30% of Scotland’s seas being highly
C
protected, with at least 10% fully protected, by 2030
4 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 5
Why we need a
Nature Recovery Plan
Nature’s importance has become increasingly clear for many people.
The necessary response to the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted lives
and routines in ways distinctive to each of us, but nature has been a
defining factor of our individual experiences.
Many people have turned to gardens or species and climate change.1 In Scotland,
nature-rich greenspace and have become 49% of wild species have declined, and
more attuned to the sounds and sights one in nine are threatened with national Delivering these eleven actions would
of local wildlife. For others, lockdown will extinction. 2 contribute to the following:
have been made all the more challenging
by a lack of outdoor space or living in 2020 was set to host two major summits
more nature-deprived areas. Both sets of on climate and biodiversity that were
experiences highlight the value of nature expected to make pivotal decisions about Sustainable Development Goals:
to our quality of life, mental health and the future of our planet. The past few
physical wellbeing. years have witnessed a global movement SDG 3 SDG 6 SDG 8 SDG 11 SDG 13 SDG 14 SDG 15 SDG 16
led by young people calling for change.
Good Clean Decent Sustainable Climate Life Below Life on Land Peace,
Lockdown has also shone a light on some Whilst events have understandably had
Health and Water and Work and Cities and Action Water Justice and
of the impacts that human activities have to be delayed until 2021, we must not
Wellbeing Sanitation Economic Communities Strong
on the environment. Fewer cars on the road lose this momentum. The pandemic and
Growth institutions
and grounded aeroplanes have helped resulting lockdown have shown us that
to reduce air pollution and greenhouse transformative change is possible, and
gas emissions. Quieter towns and cities that energy should be channelled into a
have enabled wildlife to roam more widely recovery for both people and nature.
and allowed birdsong to be better heard. and Scottish National Performance Framework Outcomes:
But while there have been some positive This plan sets out 11 high-impact
impacts we should seek to sustain, interventions for nature’s recovery, Economy: Fair work and Environment: Health: Human International: Communities:
lockdown has also caused huge disruption which are necessary and urgent steps. We have business: We value, enjoy, We are healthy Rights: We are open, We live in
and hardship and highlighted that there Successful delivery would generate a globally We have protect and and active We respect, connected and communities
is unequal access to nature, particularly significant benefits for nature, climate and competitive, thriving and enhance our protect and make a positive that are
for vulnerable and disadvantaged people, and would unlock pathways to entrepreneurial, innovative environment fulfil human contribution inclusive,
communities and individuals. long-term transformative change. inclusive and businesses, rights and internationally empowered,
sustainable with quality live free from resilient and
It is vital that, as we work towards nature’s A number of the actions could also be economy jobs and discrimination safe
recovery, we do this in a fair and planned prioritised by the Scottish Government fair work for
way that builds resilience to future shocks over the next six months as part of a green everyone
and enhances people’s wellbeing. recovery. Looking beyond that, the actions
should be considered as a package of
We need nature, but we are failing it. Nature policies for nature that must be delivered
was in trouble long before the onset of within the next 5-10 years. We call on all
the pandemic. It is eroding across the political parties in Scotland to champion
world at a rate not seen before in human nature and include these actions in their
history, caused largely by five direct drivers: party manifestos for the 2021 Scottish
changes in land and sea use, resource Parliament elections.
extraction, pollution, invasive non-native
6 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 7
Valuing Funding
nature Nature’s
Investing in nature represents a huge return on
investment and will underpin a vibrant, nature-
Scotland is consistently
Recovery
rich economy and society for the long-term identified with and Adequate, long-term funding is essential for Specific funding needs that
delivering the actions set out in this report. must be urgently addressed:
that will be more resilient to future shocks. marketed on its
The protection and restoration of nature has
The Advisory Group on Economic Recovery, appointed by the landscapes and wildlife. historically been chronically underfunded,
Review and reform existing public
Scottish Government in April 2020 to provide expert advice on expenditure and procurement
Scotland’s economic recovery after the Covid-19 crisis, has despite the strong investment case outlined so that perverse and conflicting
recommended delivering transformational change “where the above. incentives are ended.
coincidence of emissions reductions, the development of natural
Funding for public sector bodies responsible for protecting Scotland’s
capital and job creation are the strongest”. 3 It also emphasised the
environment has fallen steadily since 2007. Research has shown that the Transform the Biodiversity
key role of nature-based solutions, which support multiple objectives
budgets of Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Environment Protection Challenge Fund into a large-scale
and boost rural, tourism and nature-based economies.
Agency, and Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services nature fund for Scotland. This
have been cut by almost £100m over the past decade, a 40% reduction should be targeted explicitly at
Now is the moment to kickstart deeper structural reforms needed to
in real terms. 5 Though there was some increase in the 2020-21 draft addressing the five direct drivers of
shift to a wellbeing economy which actively invests in nature.
budget, this was insufficient to offset losses over recent years. biodiversity loss, at a project scale
between £200k and £10m.
This transformational change will deliver widespread benefits and
There has also been insufficient dedicated grant funding to date for
contribute to numerous societal goals, such as improving flood
nature. Now that the UK has exited the EU, we are set to lose access
mitigation, cleaning up our air and drinking water and delivering Properly fund the statutory
to further vital funds, most notably the EU LIFE programme. Scotland
access to nature for everyone. Wildlife-rich greenspace provides environment agencies so they can
has benefited from many millions of pounds for LIFE projects aimed at
multiple public health, well-being and social benefits, from reducing carry out their statutory duties,
machair, raised bogs, blanket bogs, oak woodlands, seabirds, Atlantic
obesity, to tackling stress to promoting social interactions. at a minimum reinstating budgets
salmon, capercaillies, freshwater pearl mussels and hen harriers,
to 2010 levels. This must include
amongst others. Additionally, from 2012-15, private foundation support
A green recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic must include green sufficient funding for environmental
for environmental work in England and Wales was twenty times greater
stimulus focused on achieving net zero emissions and biodiversity monitoring across Scotland.
than in Scotland. 6
goals. 4 The actions in this report were designed for nature’s
recovery, but a number of them could also be prioritised as part of
Private sector funding has a crucial role to play in unlocking large-scale Ensure that Natural Infrastructure
a green recovery: scaling up and rolling out Green Infrastructure
action and Scotland has already begun this journey. The £1 Billion receives its fair share of funding
across Scotland by delivering a Scottish Nature Network, delivering
Challenge 7 was launched by the Scottish Environment Protection within the Infrastructure
large-scale nature-based solutions to climate change, transforming
Agency (SEPA) and the Scottish Wildlife Trust as an ambitious initiative Investment Plan.
our food and farming system and ensuring that new planned
to pioneer, develop and showcase cutting-edge investment and funding
development has a positive impact on nature.
models to help close the funding gap. A large number of organisations
Strategically align and target
and individuals contributed to the Route Map to £1 Billion which sets out
Investment in nature’s recovery can avoid double costs and prevent private sector investment in
nine opportunities to generate new forms of investment in Scotland’s
future spend in other areas, saving money in the long term for nature’s recovery through the
natural assets in ways that will deliver significant wider benefits, and in
both the public purse and private investors. It will also create and forthcoming Regional Land Use
some cases provide financial returns for investors. More collaborative
sustain green jobs and industries that are more secure over the long Frameworks and Scotland’s
work across government, business and NGOs now needs to be done to
term. To transition to nature-based industries in a way that is fair planning system. The Infrastructure
turn these models into investment-ready opportunities.
for all, workers, sectors and industries must be supported with the Levy must be implemented across
necessary training, skills and infrastructure. all local authority areas to provide
Scotland‘s natural new funding for green and blue
Nature based
Restoring nature will also play a central role in achieving Scotland’s heritage including the infrastructure.
ecosystem services tourism Cost of
climate targets. The natural capacity of soils and plants to store
carbon means that habitat restoration, such as protecting kelp
provided by it is worth £1.4billion Protection
forests and salt marshes, restoring peatlands and coastal habitats, £21.5-£23 pa €211.5 m
billion pa 39,000 jobs pa
expanding native woodlands and helping them to regenerate, can
provide nature-based solutions to climate change. These projects
Benefit Cost
are large-scale green infrastructure projects that can create green
jobs and underpin a sustainable economy. All scenarios for achieving
When the costs of implementation are factored in,
net zero emissions in Scotland by 2045 involve deployment of
there is a benefit-cost ratio of 7:1 over 25 years.
nature-based solutions.
8 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 9
1. Deliver a significant Steps to support
expansion in Scotland’s implementation
native woodlands annually 1. Existing native woodlands of
conservation importance, especially
from 2020
protected sites, must be brought
into favourable condition and
managed sustainably, supported by
improved grants and better, more
direct advice for land managers. The
UK Woodland Assurance Standard
(UKWAS) should be made a statutory
minimum requirement for new and
existing productive woodland once
it reaches maturity.
1 2. Woodland grant schemes must
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 be reviewed and revised to deliver
Scotland’s rainforests plantings at a greater variety of
scales, species diversity and
are globally important density, and to support expansion
© COLIN WILKINSON
of farm woodlands and hedgerows.
New planting and woodland
management should be carefully
planned to deliver a variety of
age classes. The sustainable
Why is this important for nature? Wider benefits management of new and existing
woodlands is crucial to maximise
Native and ancient woodlands support Targeted woodland expansion efforts post- The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) Economic benefits- Forestry has been one of the first sectors to reopen as benefits; this will require greater
© ANDY HAY
complex, diverse and unique wildlife war, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s, also highlighted that increased tree Scotland emerges from lockdown. Operations occur largely outdoors, and provision of advice to land
communities. Scotland’s Caledonian increased tree cover from 5% at the turn of planting should be a core component of with the ability to apply social distancing measures. Therefore, an expansion of managers, including more advisors
pine woods are among the least modified the 20th century to over 19% of Scotland’s a green recovery.12 However, to ensure appropriate tree planting, along with the training opportunities and jobs it would and woodland ecologists. Greater
woodlands in Britain. 8 They are home land by 2019.11 However, much of this was it delivers for nature, it is critical that all support, could make an important contribution to a green recovery. levels of natural regeneration should
to rare tooth fungi, black grouse and red non-native productive forestry, which now new planting is sited appropriately and, also be encouraged, through more
squirrels, and the last UK stronghold of the accounts for over three quarters of total at a minimum, 50% of new planting is of Climate – Considerable woodland expansion is central to all pathways to effective deer control and other
capercaillie, crested tit and the Scottish tree cover. native tree species, which could include achieving net zero GHG emissions by 2045. The CCC recommended that measures.
crossbill – a species unique to Scotland. productive species. Scotland plant 15,000-24,000ha of new trees each year from the mid-2020s.
Poorly sited planting impacted 3. All future planting should be located
Atlantic woodlands are globally important. internationally important species and open Alongside new planting, natural Recreation – Woodlands and forests offer a wide range of recreational in appropriate places and guided
Known as ‘Scotland’s rainforests’, they habitats. Changes in practice have since regeneration will also play a critical opportunities, from cycling, walking and running to wildlife experiences. The by a strategic approach. The
are named as such for their lush, complex been introduced and work is progressing to role in expanding and connecting our public forest estate alone hosts over ten million visitors annually. Forest-related forthcoming Regional Land Use
carpets of bryophytes and colourful address this past damage: planting on peat existing native woodlands. Effective deer tourism is worth £165 million, with £94 million spent on day visits each year. The Frameworks and formal planning
lichens, ferns and oak, holly, alder and hazel soils of 50cm depth or greater is no longer management, reducing browsing pressure, annual health benefits of Scottish woodlands have been estimated to be at least processes should ensure this
woods that thrive in the mild wet oceanic allowed and trees are being removed from is essential for natural regeneration of £10 million.14 happens. These Frameworks, along
conditions of western Scotland.9 peatlands as part of restoration work. woodlands. Existing woodlands also need with the strategic direction of a
to be brought into sustainable management Flood alleviation – Woodlands can be a natural flood solution if sited Scottish Nature Network, would
These habitats are under pressure and Further effort is needed to ensure new to improve their carbon and nature benefits. appropriately. Trees can slow flows, stabilise slopes and sediment, and improve ensure that opportunities for native
in decline. Scotland’s native pine woods planting does not impact priority species the capacity of soils to hold water. woodland recovery, connectivity
only remain in 1% of their former range. that depend on open habitats, nor where All forests - new, existing and productive and expansion are maximised and
Invasive species, browsing pressure, lack it will undermine the hydrology of adjacent woodlands - must be developed and Farm productivity - Agroforestry systems can see improvements in total that trees can be successfully
of management, pollution, recreational deep peat. Further research is also required managed in a way that provides biodiversity biomass production, as there is better utilisation of water, soil and sunlight. Crop integrated with other land uses, with
disturbance and climate change are all to better understand the carbon impacts value, but as Scotland’s Forestry Strategy yields can also be improved by soil diversity. Integration of trees and hedges on minimal trade-offs.
threatening nature in our woodlands. The of planting on shallower peat soils and recognises, well-managed native farms can also provide benefits such as shade and shelter for livestock. Different
State of Nature Report 2019 highlighted whether this should be avoided. woodlands, particularly semi-natural and tree species can also be utilised for fruit, nuts, energy and timber and can
declines in woodland specialist birds such ancient woodlands, will deliver the highest contribute to farm diversification and new income streams.
as capercaillie, willow tit, wood warbler In order to reduce dependence on imported biodiversity benefit.13
and woodland butterflies like the common timber, planting of productive woods and
blue.10 forests will need to be part of the mix.
10 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 11
2. Introduce new legislation to Steps to support
implementation
achieve sustainable, low-impact 1. Champion sustainable fisheries by
introducing world-leading legislation,
fishing by the end of 2021 policy and governance that delivers
ecosystem-based fisheries
management, fully integrated with
conservation objectives by 2021,
including a commitment to:
— Fishing in accordance with the best
available independent scientific
2 advice
11
— Delivering spatial management of
all gear types and the exclusion of
some gears, including a presumption
against heavy bottom-towed mobile
fishing gear in a significant part of
Scotland’s inshore waters.
current levels of fishing, — All fishing vessels in Scottish waters
combined with the gear types to use Remote Electronic Monitoring
used in Scotland’s seas, are not with cameras (REM), ensure full
and verifiable documentation of
sustainable. catches of target and non-target
species, deliver robust monitoring,
and support enforcement and
Why is this important for nature? compliance as well as provide
assurance to retailers and
Centuries of fishing activity have had a profound effect on Therefore, effective fisheries management must go beyond consumers.
global marine biodiversity and ecosystem health, making fish stock health, and adopt a broader ecosystem approach
our seas less resilient to disturbance and environmental that ends overfishing, minimises damage to non-target
2. Develop a clear climate and nature-
change. International efforts have shown promise but species and habitats and leads to a recovery in the health
smart strategy that sets out: the
commercial fishing, along with climate change, remains of marine habitats and ecosystems.
measures needed for climate
a pervasive pressure affecting marine biodiversity in
adaptation of the sector; the
Scotland and the North East Atlantic. A paradigm shift in fisheries management is urgently Wider benefits
contribution the industry can make to
needed to deliver the change required to restore the
net zero emissions; and where fishing
Many species are currently being fished beyond marine environment. Covid-19 and the ensuing lockdown Economic – Rebuilding fish stocks and greatly reducing the ecosystem impacts
practice needs to be managed
sustainable levels, with catch limits consistently set and economic recession has had significant impacts on of fishing activity will enhance productivity and deliver long-term stability,
to strengthen climate resilience,
above independent scientific advice. Although improving, Scotland’s fisheries, highlighting the critical need to make increases in fish biomass, more long-term employment opportunities and higher
such as the protection, recovery
Scotland’s national performance indicator on sea fisheries this sector more resilient over the long-term, particularly revenues and profits.17
and restoration of natural carbon
shows that only 54% of fish stocks are fished sustainably.15 mitigating future shocks and risks to fisheries from
sinks like seagrass, maerl beds and
Additionally, some fishing activity causes widespread the nature and climate emergencies. To create a more Social – Long-term sustainability will provide stability to coastal communities
burrowed mud.
disturbance to the seafloor16 affecting the ability of many resilient marine environment, we must be forward-looking, that benefit from and depend on fishing and allow wider civil society to enjoy the
seabed habitats to recover, while others pose a risk of adaptable and ambitious in our approach, looking to create services provided by healthy marine ecosystems, full of abundant and diverse
3. A wholesale review of the fleet.
accidental capture to birds, whales and dolphins. This solutions that will restore nature in the marine environment marine life.
Within this a phased and just
is partly because fishing has not been held to the same and provide training and upskilling opportunities to create
revocation and reallocation of all
environmental standards as other at-sea industries. sustainable marine jobs over the long term. Food – The reliable supply of locally caught seafood is essential to a sustainable
fishing licenses according to clear
low-carbon food system, helping Scotland to become a Good Food Nation and
social and environmental criteria,
Commercially targeted fish and shellfish are important achieve long-term food security.
including climate impacts should be
components of marine biodiversity, and play a key role
initiated. The new licencing system
in maintaining healthy, functioning marine ecosystems Climate – More effective spatial management of fisheries will allow protection
must place ecosystem health at
throughout Scotland’s seas. Equally, fragile deep-water of vital blue carbon habitats, while more abundant and diverse fish stocks will
the core of all decision-making to
habitats and nearshore waters, where the complex mosaic contribute to healthier and more resilient marine ecosystems that have a higher
secure fisheries that operate within
of habitats provide many ecosystem services (e.g. fish capacity to store carbon and, therefore, increase their contribution towards
environmental limits and contribute
nurseries, carbon storage and coastal protection), are mitigating the effects of climate change.
to the recovery and restoration of the
being damaged by heavy, bottom-towed fishing gear.
ocean as well as delivering benefits
for dependent coastal communities.
12 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 13
3. Implement licensing of Steps to support
implementation
driven grouse shooting 1. Fully implement the
recommendations of the independent
by the end of 2021 Grouse Moor Review, without delay,
including the immediate licensing of
driven grouse shooting with effective
sanctions to remove licences where
wildlife crime is confirmed by public
authorities.
2. Introduce a requirement for the
3 production of management plans
1 7 for driven grouse shooting estates.
Management plans should ensure
the protection and enhancement of
public land management interests, as
well as private interests. These could
include protection and expansion
of areas of native woodland and of
peatlands.
Why is this important for nature?
3. Following increased protection for
Scotland is renowned for its birds of prey, such as the moors, providing young shoots for grouse to eat and mountain hares in the Animal and
enigmatic golden eagle. As top predators these species are maintaining open ground. Though muirburn may deliver Wildlife Bill, introduce a licensing
key indicators of the health of our environment. However, some positive effects on dry heath, burning of blanket bog system administered by SNH to
evidence is clear that wildlife crime is restricting the range can negatively impact sensitive bog vegetation, hydrology, “...evidence is clear that wildlife safeguard mountain hare populations,
and abundance of golden eagles, hen harriers, red kites and water quality, carbon storage capacity and biodiversity.
crime is restricting the range and by maintaining sustainable levels, as
© CHRIS GOMERSALL
peregrines. A 2017 report by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) Despite a presumption against burning on deep peat, this soon as possible.
recorded that 40 out of 131 satellite tagged young golden is still happening even within protected nature sites.19 The abundance of golden eagles, hen
harriers, red kites and peregrines.”
eagles had disappeared in suspicious circumstances over Muirburn Code, which regulates muirburn, lacks the statutory 4. Regulate the use of medicated
the period 2004-16, mostly in locations on or adjacent to provisions and robust monitoring system necessary to avoid grit, including putting in place
grouse moors. these negative impacts. and enforcing closed seasons
and restricting use to when
In December 2019 the Grouse Moor Management The Werritty Review recommended increased regulation of relevant diseases are present in
Review Group, known as the ‘Werritty Review’, made mountain hare culling. Good progress has now been made on grouse populations proven by
recommendations to the Scottish Government as to how this issue in the Animals and Wildlife (Penalties, Protections Wider benefits veterinary testing. Ensure research
grouse moors can be managed sustainably and within and Powers) (Scotland) Bill. It is critical that the other is undertaken by the Scottish
the law, looking specifically at the issues of birds of prey, recommendations around counting and surveillance by SNH Biodiversity – Licensing would be a Cultural – Provision of access to and Environment Protection Agency
moorland burning, mountain hares and use of medicated of mountain hare populations set out in the Werritty Review route to sustainable management of cultural preservation of countryside (SEPA) to look at wider environmental
grit.18 are also carried out without delay. moorlands, which comprise a range pursuits. impacts of medicated grit, for
of habitats, including dry and wet instance on watercourses and in the
Predator control is frequently carried out on grouse moors Crucially, the Werritty Review recommended introducing heath, Atlantic heath, blanket bog, Climate – An end to muirburn on deep food chain.
to maximise the numbers of grouse available to shoot when a licensing scheme for grouse moors, but only if, after a tall herb vegetation, species rich and peat will be essential for securing the
the season opens. However, while not all predator control further five years of assessment, no improvement in the upland grasslands. Upland breeding restoration of all Scotland’s peatlands 5. Give new powers to the Scottish
is illegal, illegal killing of birds of prey and other protected conservation status of birds of prey has occurred. Licensing species such as golden plover, by 2045. This would deliver wider SPCA to investigate wildlife crime,
species is still occurring. This is not acceptable under any would provide clearly defined standards and create greater dunlin and curlew can also thrive in benefits such as flood protection and following the recent announcement
circumstances. trust between the grouse shooting industry and the public. these habitats. When managed well, water quality improvements. by the Scottish Government of a
The report also recommended further scrutiny of the use of moorlands can deliver significant taskforce to consider this issue.
The measures and sanctions used to deter the illegal medicated grit, which can persist in the environment and is nature and carbon benefits. 20 The Partnership Against Wildlife
persecution of birds of prey to date have been mostly toxic to aquatic organisms. Crime should have more focus on
ineffective in driven grouse moor areas, largely due to the Accountability – Licensing allows the effective enforcement of laws to
difficulties involved in obtaining enough admissible evidence Given the continued occurrence of wildlife crime and in the bad practice and illegal activity to be combat wildlife crime, and additional
to secure a prosecution, and the fact that these crimes context of climate change and the continued loss of nature, managed directly, increasing public resources should be provided to the
mostly occur in remote areas. a proportionate response by the Scottish Government to the transparency and trust and ensuring Police Wildlife Crime Officer network.
Werritty Report recommendations would be to introduce a that the reputation of the grouse
Rotational burning of moorland vegetation, known as licensing scheme without delay. shooting industry is improved.
muirburn, is a common management tool on grouse
14 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 15
4. Reduce deer populations and Steps to support
implementation
maintain them at sustainable The Scottish Government should
implement in full the recommendations
levels through new or improved of the Independent Deer Working Group
report 27 through the introduction and
legislation by the end of 2021
implementation of new deer legislation. In
particular:
1. Set statutory maximum limits for
deer density on a regional basis,
including a maximum of ten red deer
4 per square kilometre density over
1 7 large areas of open range in the
Highlands.
2. Strengthen SNH’s deer management
powers, ensuring that they have
sufficient, flexible enforcement
powers to maintain deer populations
at sustainable levels in every area
of Scotland and to protect public
interests. Mandatory deer count
The current lack of effective deer data and cull return systems, and
Why is this important for nature?
management creates a substantial improved flow of public information
on deer populations, administered
Deer are a much-loved feature of High deer densities can also lead to barrier for the restoration of key by SNH, are required to underpin this
© WILDFLIFE TRUST
habitats that are significant for both
Scotland’s landscapes. However, the trampling on important habitats such as process.
absence of natural predators over recent mires, fens and flushes, which increases
centuries has meant that there is no natural
mechanism for keeping deer numbers in
rates of soil erosion and runoff, negatively
impacts water quality and increases the
biodiversity and climate... 3. The Scottish Government and
Land Commission should integrate
check. As a result, deer numbers have risen downstream flooding risk. The erection of Deer Management Groups within
to unnaturally high levels in certain parts deer fences to allow high deer densities, the Regional Land Use Framework
of the country. This can have substantial for example for private sporting purposes, model so that deer management is
negative impacts on important habitats alongside areas of woodland, can cause framed within the context of other
and on restoration projects, particularly habitat fragmentation and adversely impact Wider benefits social, environmental and economic
through trampling and browsing.21 Human species like capercaillie. priorities.
management is therefore required to Climate – Reducing deer numbers and maintaining densities at sustainable
maintain deer populations at sustainable The Native Woodland Survey of levels would increase native woodland regeneration and improve the success 4. Public financial support for deer
numbers. Scotland identified and mapped the of afforestation projects, contributing to achieving net zero emissions by 2045. fencing should be phased out. A
location, extent, type and condition of all Current public investment in peatland restoration is also at risk from subsequent cost-benefit analysis of delivering
The current lack of effective deer of Scotland’s native woodlands. 23 The ...deer numbers damage by deer. woodland expansion via natural
management creates a substantial barrier
for the restoration of key habitats that are
woodland survey concluded that only
46% of the resource is in a satisfactory
have risen to Flood protection – Reducing the browsing pressure of deer on our woodlands
regeneration and sustainable deer
management, rather than by tree
significant for both biodiversity and climate, condition for biodiversity, mainly due to unnaturally high would help to increase the natural flood mitigation service provided by trees. planting and deer fencing, should be
levels in certain
particularly woodland regeneration and browsing and grazing of young trees by undertaken and used to guide policy
peatland restoration. High densities of deer domestic livestock and wild deer. Supporting rural communities – Sustainable deer management requires more implementation.
and heavy browsing can cause suppression
of tree and shrub regeneration, leading Independent work carried out on behalf of
parts of the deer stalkers, providing more jobs to diversify and strengthen local economies in
our most sparsely populated areas.
to eventual loss of woodlands and loss Scottish Environment LINK identified that country.
of species diversity in the ground layer where red deer densities exceed eight deer Public health – Reducing deer numbers would reduce vehicle collisions and help
of many habitats, including woodland per square kilometre, then there is likely to tackle the rise in tick numbers and Lyme disease, which are public health risks, and a
and species rich grassland. Whilst heavy be ongoing damage to peatlands and the burden on the NHS. 25
browsing is problematic, extremely low success of peatland restoration work may
levels of browsing and disturbance when be compromised.24 Deer health – Reducing the numbers of our wild deer would help improve overall
deer are entirely excluded by fencing deer health and welfare, keeping populations at more natural levels, ensuring habitat
can also result in a reduction of natural resources are not over-exploited, and that mass starvation events of deer on open
processes in woodlands.22 hill ranges in bad weather are reduced. 26
16 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 17
5. Ensure that all new Steps to support
development is net positive implementation
for nature through the National
1. Scotland’s fourth National Planning
Framework (NPF4) should place a
duty for delivery of “securing positive
Planning Framework 4 in 2022
effects for biodiversity” on all
development by:
— Implementing a ‘positive effects
for biodiversity’ framework that
5 is underpinned by key principles,
including the full application of the
3 6 7
mitigation hierarchy. This requires
that negative impacts must first
be avoided and mitigated before
compensation is used.
— Ensuring that positive effects for
biodiversity that are secured from
development are strategically
directed to local, regional
© CHUTTERSNAP/UNSPLASH
and national green and blue
Why is this important for nature? infrastructure priorities, including
nature-based solutions. Scotland’s
Development and urbanisation are major One of NPF4’s outcomes is “securing positive Nature Network can provide this
pressures on biodiversity globally. 28 The planning effects for biodiversity”. This has similar aims to strategic direction and enable
system also shapes how we access nature, other established mechanisms that require new direct and necessary links to the
perceive and interact with it in the places where developments to leave nature in a better condition, forthcoming Regional Land Use
we live and work. Our planning system is therefore rather than simply preventing and reducing the Frameworks and infrastructure
well placed to lead and deliver far-reaching, worst impacts of development on the environment. investment plans for a green
positive outcomes for nature, climate and people Crucially there should be a net overall benefit for recovery.
in Scotland. nature. “Securing positive effects for biodiversity”
could be achieved in a variety of ways, including Wider benefits
2. Include a Scottish Nature Network as
Many types of development can result in the loss through investing in projects to protect, restore
a National Development in NPF4.
or change of valuable sites for wildlife and the and enhance Scotland’s wildlife and spaces for Health & Wellbeing – Safe, local nature-rich greenspace, accessible without the use
fragmentation of habitats. This fragmentation nature. of cars or public transport, for leisure, active travel and education can provide multiple
3. Ensure that infrastructure projects
has impacted on the ability of some species to public health benefits and better connect people with nature. The need for this has
invested in as part of the economic
move through the landscape, creating isolated Fully integrating green and blue infrastructure 31, been highlighted as critically important during the Covid-19 lockdown.
recovery after Covid-19 are in
populations that are at heightened risk of going Scotland’s natural assets, within the planning
line with current commitments
locally extinct.29 This urbanisation effect of system is also crucial and mechanisms for Carbon Reduction – Nature-based solutions such as peatland restoration and native
to address climate change and
development continues, with the area covered “securing positive effects for biodiversity” woodland expansion can realise significant carbon sequestration potential. This
biodiversity loss.
by impermeable materials, such as concrete must play a key role in funding and delivering potential can be maximised by the planning system to help contribute to achieving net
and buildings, increasing in many regions across this. Increasing green and blue infrastructure in zero emissions by 2045.
Scotland between 2009 – 2018. 30 and around Scotland’s towns and cities would
also help to address nature deprivation, which Flood protection and resilience – Focused habitat creation in and around
However, planning can also play a leading role in disproportionately affects disadvantaged development and in the right places can help absorb rainfall and slow its flow to
delivering transformational change - creating and communities and individuals, something that has streams and rivers. The planning system can help to deliver these natural, or more
implementing a future vision for Scotland where been starkly highlighted during the Covid-19 crisis. environmentally-friendly, flood risk management solutions, for example by better
the places we live and work are places that support embedding them into Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) schemes.
our collective wellbeing, support communities and Wherever people live and work they should have
where nature can thrive. To do that, planning needs access to nature: this can have a direct influence Green collar jobs – Developing a “positive effects for biodiversity” approach will
to shift to a system that enables development but on our quality of life and wellbeing but also helps require investment in natural capital creating new jobs and requiring new skills. Project
also helps rapidly accelerate our efforts to reduce us to forge more resilient communities and managers, site workers and architects focused on the delivery of environmental
climate emissions and restore biodiversity. economies that are integrated with and therefore benefits will be needed to deliver net positives for biodiversity. The Climate Change
intrinsically more likely to protect and restore Committee has recommended to the Scottish Government that climate investment
nature. should be used to support post Covid-19 economic recovery32 -much of this can be
through nature-based solutions and securing positive effects for biodiversity would
help deliver this.
18 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 19
6. Include a Scottish Nature Steps to support
implementation
Network in the National 1. Specific investment in the Scottish
Planning Framework 4 in
Nature Network through green
recovery financial stimulus
packages.
2022, and deliver it by 2030. 2. NPF4 should include a Scottish
Nature Network as a National
Development. This should actively
seek opportunities to improve nature
connectivity to maximise delivery of
© JILL DIMOND/UNSPLASH
6 nature-based solutions and benefits
1 5 7 10 for people and wildlife.
3. Target delivery of the Scottish Nature
Network through the forthcoming
Regional Land Use Frameworks to
achieve strategic coordination of
nature recovery at a national level.
4. Ensure that the forthcoming 2020-
2030 Scottish Biodiversity Strategy
Why is this important for nature? Wider benefits
is coordinated and integrated with
implementation of the Land Use
The way that we use and manage land is one of the Nature networks also involve transforming the Public health and wellbeing – Better tourism is estimated to contribute nearly
Strategy.
biggest drivers of habitat and wildlife loss. Space way we use land in between nature sites, providing connected and restored habitats would 40% of all tourism spend, supporting
for wildlife is continually squeezed into increasingly corridors and other connections that allow wildlife provide far greater opportunity for 39,000 full-time equivalent jobs.
5. Develop a suite of national green
small and isolated parcels of habitat that are more to thrive and move, areas of nature-friendly engagement and use of green space, Outdoor-based nature tourism can
and blue infrastructure projects
vulnerable to pressures such as disturbance, farming, sustainably managed forests and nature- including better opportunities for active play a key role in the green recovery,
that would contribute to delivery
disease and predation. It limits the ability of species rich greenspace in our urban areas. Whilst lots of travel, which has demonstrable public providing activities possible within social
of the Scottish Nature Network
to disperse, find new homes and to access food and good conservation action is being undertaken health benefits. The lack of quality, distancing guidelines and creating rural
and be prioritised as critical
shelter. across Scotland, the current scale of delivery is biodiverse green space, especially jobs.
natural infrastructure within the
disconnected and not achieving the full potential for for the poorest in society, has been
Infrastructure Investment Plan. This
This has significant implications for nature and nature or people. A Scottish Nature Network would highlighted during the Covid-19 crisis. Strategic funding – Greater ease of
is directly supported by the advice
for people. The Covid-19 crisis has highlighted allow us to focus our combined efforts where we can project selection and prioritisation for
of the Infrastructure Commission to
huge inequalities around access to nature-rich make the most difference. Green and blue infrastructure – vital funders such as the National Lottery
include natural infrastructure within
greenspace in Scotland. Research produced for Targeting restoration activities at Heritage Fund and private investors,
infrastructure plans.
SNH shows that disadvantaged communities and The Scottish Government has committed to a peatlands, grasslands, hedgerows, who want to invest in the most important
individuals, disabled people and BAME people strategic programme of integrated land use planning riverine habitats, native woodlands, strategic projects. The strategic vision
are less likely to visit the natural environment - and delivery through the Scottish Land Use Strategy saltmarsh and other coastal habitats and clear priority provided will also
participation in the outdoors is strongly impacted by and roll out of regional land use frameworks. It will be central to achieving greater inform more effective investment
affluence and residency. Having better connected, is essential that biodiversity opportunities and connectivity. This would help provide through agri-environment and forestry
more attractive habitat close to where people live trade-offs are adequately reflected during the the Infrastructure Commission with funding.
will help address this. development of these frameworks - a spatial a selection of high-value projects
iteration of a Scottish Nature Network, through that would deliver maximum public Climate adaptation – Nature networks
A Scottish Nature Network can help increase opportunity mapping, could help us do that. benefit. This will also provide new job create space for species to move and
the richness of our countryside, rivers, hillsides, opportunities, helping to fuel a green adapt to a changing climate.
coastlines, towns and cities through reconnecting A Scottish Nature Network would deliver widespread recovery.
and expanding places where wildlife can thrive. This benefits for our societies and economies too, Supporting collaboration - Identifying
will help our wider landscapes to buffer and shield contributing directly to a green recovery in Scotland. Ecotourism – Creating a more attractive, and agreeing conservation and
our most special and protected sites for nature, like It would provide strategic targeted investment nature rich and healthy nation would restoration priorities at the national
Sites of Special Scientific Interest and European in Scotland’s natural capital and is coherent with increase revenue opportunities from and regional levels can facilitate and
protected sites. the advice given to the Scottish Government on wildlife tourism. Tourism is one of encourage collaboration between
green recovery by the Climate Change Committee, seven growth industries in Scotland, landowners and managers to deliver
particularly on tree planting, peatland restoration contributing more than £4 billion to over a larger scale.
and green infrastructure and embedding fairness as our economy each year, but has been
a core principle. significantly impacted by the Covid-19
lockdown. Spending on nature-based20 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 21
7. End burning on peatland and Steps to support
implementation
the commercial extraction and 1. An end to burning on peatlands40
could be achieved through various
sale of peat for horticulture means, for example amending
existing legislation, or making
across Scotland by 2023
the Muirburn Code mandatory.
Legislation must be supported by
proper guidance, monitoring and
enforcement. Licensing of grouse
moors would provide an opportunity
to develop scrutiny and enforcement
7 mechanisms.
1 3 4 6 9
2. Scotland-wide extraction of peat
for horticulture must end, alongside
stopping the sale of peat for
horticulture to avoid ’offshoring’
markets to Ireland and Eastern
Europe – moving the problem rather
than resolving it. No new permissions
Why is this important for nature? should be granted, and action must
be taken to ensure the cessation
Scotland’s peatlands are internationally important and include As one of the world’s most peatland-rich nations, Scotland is in of ongoing commercial extraction
13% of the world’s blanket bog. Peatlands are significant for the a strong position to show leadership by recognising the value under existing permissions.
large amounts of carbon they store, as well as the rare plants of peatlands and by investing in restoration, protection and
and animals that they support. A loss of only 5% of UK peatland sustainable management. In 2019, the UK Committee on Climate 3. Land management subsidies and
carbon would equate to the total annual UK anthropogenic Change (CCC) recommended that Scotland must increase regulations must be reformed to
greenhouse gas emissions. 33 Restoring and protecting the rate of peatland restoration and develop sustainable encourage effective management
Sphagnum dominated bog habitats, from the rolling expanses of management practices for lowland peatland under agricultural of peatland and ensure that public
the Flow Country to the lowland raised bogs of the borders, is a management. 34 More recently, the CCC called for a ban on money is not funding damaging
priority action for addressing the nature and climate emergency rotational burning and extraction of peat. 35 The Coronavirus activities, including overgrazing,
and is a fantastic example of a nature-based solution. (Scotland) Act 2020 36 introduced a temporary ban on muirburn drainage and uncontrolled
for public safety, due to the potential additional burden on Wider benefits regeneration of non-native tree
In this remarkable waterlogged environment, some amazing emergency services for out of control fires. species seeding from commercial
plant species have developed. Peat bogs are home to several Economic – Scaling up of Water regulation – Damaged plantations.
carnivorous plants that trap and eat insects, plants such as Adequate funding is critical for restoring all of Scotland’s peatland restoration was another peatlands reduce water quality and
bog myrtle which have developed symbiotic relationships with degraded peatland by 2045. We therefore warmly welcome the recommendation from the CCC as incur significant costs in the treatment 4. Land management subsidy regimes
bacteria to extract additional nitrogen and even plants that have commitment in the draft 2020-21 Scottish Budget to invest over immediate actions contributing to a of drinking water. Intact peatlands must provide integrated whole-farm/
developed adaptations to be able to ‘snorkel’ underwater using £250 million in peatland restoration over 10 years, starting with green recovery. As another outdoor offer flood protection by reducing peak whole-estate planning and advice as
air filled sacs in their root system. £20 million in 2020−21, enabling large-scale, multi-year projects sector, safe jobs could be created in flow. They also store water providing part of funding packages.
to be developed. 37 peatland management and restoration, a reserve during dry periods, which
The huge diversity of habitats within peatlands creates the right with investment opportunities in is particularly important for riparian
conditions for many species. Stop to listen and you will hear the This is a critical first step. The long-term commitment to specialist equipment and skills. habitats. It is also critical for our whisky
buzz of insects such as dragonfly and bird song from species peatland restoration will allow Scotland to develop a green and salmon fishing industries and
such as skylarks, meadow pipits, dunlin and golden plovers. economy, giving specialists the confidence to invest in the skills Climate – Current emissions from threatened wildlife like the freshwater
Otters, badgers, pine martens, stoats and weasels can also be and equipment that they need to deliver peatland restoration Scottish peatlands are estimated to be pearl mussel.
found foraging in this habitat. targets. Currently, delivery is limited by the number of peatland around 9 MtCO2e per year. 38 Peatland
restoration specialists and access to necessary machinery. restoration needs to increase to at least Cultural – Peatlands maintain a unique
Historically the value of peatlands was not fully understood Upskilling and training will be required, alongside capital and 20,000ha per year to be compatible archive of our cultural past. Beneath
and various activities were undertaken to make them more revenue funding, to deliver restoration at the necessary scale. with a net zero pathway to 2045. 39 and within the peat, evidence of large
economically productive, for instance draining, burning, planting The more peatland we can restore tracts of prehistoric landscapes
trees and grazing. Many areas have been dug up for horticultural It should be supported by legislative action to prevent further at pace the more emissions we can lies protected from weathering and
use while others are subject to erosion. Overgrazing damages degradation, and policy and plans to ensure that restored avoid and the sooner we can move to disturbance.
the condition of peatlands causing both loss of biodiversity and peatland is sustainably managed on an ongoing basis. sequestration.
soil erosion. Today over 80% of our peatlands are degraded, Recreation - Peatlands are widely
meaning that they are currently emitting carbon, rather than used for recreation, exercise, wildlife
absorbing it as healthy peatlands do. watching and other activities.22 A NATURE RECOVERY PL AN 23
8. Introduce and apply Steps to support
new rules to improve implementation
the use of nitrogen by
1. The revised Climate Change Plan
must set out a suite of policies
and proposals to secure improved
2024
nitrogen use efficiency, including:
— Introduce new rules governing
nitrogen use across all of Scotland
by 2024
8 — Publish Nitrogen Balance Sheet
1 7 10 for Scotland and set a target for
reduction in nitrogen waste of 30%
by 2030
— Introduce compulsory soil testing
Nitrates are a significant diffuse and nitrogen balance sheets on all
farms
water pollutant, with biodiversity — Implementation of a suite of
impacts on sensitive species measures to promote efficient
such as salmon, freshwater pearl
nitrogen use and safe storage of
Why is this important for nature?
farm manures and slurry
Nitrogen deriving from human activities, in Deposition of atmospheric nitrogen mussel and water voles. — Establish new financing mechanisms
its various forms, can have considerable is recognised as one of the greatest under the forthcoming Agriculture
negative impacts on biodiversity. current threats to terrestrial biodiversity. Transformation Programme to
Agriculture is a significant source, with Deposition can cause local species help farmers comply with new
fertilisers, farm slurry and manures extinctions, with sensitive species of regulations, including provisions for
contributing 60% of nitrate pollution in moss, lichen and native herbaceous plants advice and training
Wider benefits
UK water bodies and 90% of ammonia replaced by grasses and other generalist
emissions in Scotland. Almost half of the species. The nitrogen critical load was
Climate – Nitrous oxide is a highly considerably since 1990, ammonia 2. New regulations are required to
nitrogen applied to land in fertilisers is exceeded in 62% of UK semi-natural
wasted, the surplus running off into air, soil habitats in 2014. Ammonia, predominantly Ammonia, potent greenhouse gas released from
soils and waterbodies, with 79% arising
emissions remain high. Evidence is
also now emerging that people living in
strengthen cross-compliance with
regards to nitrogen use.
and water as nitrates, ammonia and nitrous
oxide.
from agricultural activities, is one of the
principal atmospheric nitrogen pollutants.
predominantly from agricultural sources. Nitrous oxide areas with higher air pollution are more
Ammonia emissions have only declined by from agricultural has 310 times the warming potential of
carbon dioxide. A significant reduction
prone to chronic respiratory conditions
such as Coronavirus and it can be
3. The Clean Air Strategy must
establish and introduce a mandatory
activities, is one
Nitrates are a significant diffuse water 12% since 1990.
in nitrous oxide emissions will be considered a co-factor in lethality43 . code of practice for ammonia and
pollutant, with impacts on sensitive
of the principal
essential if Scotland is to meet its net set a quantitative target for the
species such as salmon, freshwater The Nitrates Directive, as now brought into
zero greenhouse gas emissions target Recreation – Diffuse pollution from reduction of ammonia emissions.
pearl mussel and water voles. It can lead domestic law, sets conditions for nitrogen
to eutrophication and algal blooms, and use within Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs), atmospheric by 2045. agricultural and rural sources poses a
significant risk to bathing water quality,
can have serious livestock and human
health implications. Sources include
aimed at minimising nitrate runoff from
soils into watercourses. Within these
nitrogen Drinking water – High nitrate particularly during and after periods of
fertiliser runoff, cultivation too close to zones, excess application of fertiliser has pollutants. concentrations in groundwater can
approach or exceed standards for
heavy rain. In 2016, 17 bathing waters
were rated poor, due to sewage and
watercourses, soil erosion, poaching and been reduced and nitrous oxide emissions
drinking water. A reduction in nitrogen agricultural pollution.
spreading slurry or dung, either too much have decreased as a result. However, NVZ
use can reduce nitrate diffuse pollution
or too close to rivers and wetlands. Of all designation currently covers only 14% of
and associated water treatment costs Angling – Eutrophication and
water bodies in Scotland, 252 rivers and Scotland. The CCC has recommended that
in affected catchments. acidification due to nitrates and
lochs are impacted, with 11% of lochs NVZ designation be extended country-
nitrogen deposition can also affect
and 23% of rivers and canals classified as wide, alongside implementation of a suite
Air quality – Ammonia is one of seven recreational fishing by disrupting food
being in poor or bad ecological condition. of measures to reduce nitrogen use and
pollutants which contribute to air webs and reducing fish populations.
These degraded watercourses are primarily waste. 42
pollution. Air pollution is expected to Reducing nitrogen deposition could
associated with more intensively managed
reduce the life expectancy of every deliver benefits for the cultural services
farmland. 41
person in the UK by an average of of recreational fishing and appreciation
7-8 months. Whilst emissions of of biodiversity, valued at £87.7m in one
six of those pollutants have fallen UK study. 44You can also read
