NatureScot appeal for more areas to follow Findhorn Hinterland as one of the first four Nature30 areas in Scotland

The Scottish Government's adviser on wildlife management is calling on more sites to follow an example set in Findhorn to protect nature.

Findhorn Hinterland is one of the first four ‘Nature30’ areas in Scotland - part of a global initiative to help halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity.

NatureScot’s head of protected areas, Doctor Ben Ross, explained the initiative is part of the country’s commitment to safeguard at least 30 percent of land and sea by the year 2030 – agreed at COP15, known as ‘30 by 30’.

He said: “These Nature30 sites are an important step to reverse nature loss, and to help us all to become more resilient to climate change. They can also deliver food, materials, energy and many other benefits to society.

“We encourage anyone who owns or manages land that is or will be delivering great things for nature, to consider applying for Nature30 recognition.”

Nature30 sites celebrate the farmers, foresters, communities, public bodies, businesses, charities, organisations and others who manage areas of land delivering for biodiversity.

Scotland’s first four Nature30 sites are: Findhorn Hinterland; Knapdale, Argyll; Loch Arkaig Pine Forest, Lochaber; and Loch Wood, Lanark.

Findhorn dunes’ vegetated shingle is included in the Scottish Government’s Scottish Biodiversity List of priority habitats. Findhorn Hinterland Trust manages around 50 hectares under threat from encroaching scrub and trees. The trust has transformed the woodland area from a stunted commercial pine plantation to a diverse nature-rich habitat.

Trust chairman, Jonathan Caddy, said: “Nature30 gives recognition of the importance of Findhorn dunes for biodiversity.

“It will help to raise the profile of the important nature recovery work we have planned for the next 10 years, directly contributing to Scotland’s 30 by 30 target.”

The aim is also to use the global accolade to secure investment and incentives.

There are currently nearly 2000 protected areas in Scotland, covering 18 per cent of the land and freshwater. To meet the 30 per cent by 2030 target, almost one million more hectares needs to be recognised as protected or as voluntary Nature30 sites.

They will increase flood protection, reduce fire risk, protect soils, provide clean air and water, catch and store carbon and improve health and wellbeing.

NatureScot brings together over 150 people and organisations to co-design the approach. More sites are due to be recognised, and NatureScot is inviting new nominations.

For more information, visit https://www.nature.scot/nature30