The Scottish Parliament has passed the Natural Environment Scotland Bill, setting legally binding targets to halt biodiversity loss and restore nature across the country.
For the first time, statutory targets will be placed into law to enhance nature and protect biodiversity in Scotland.
When set, the targets will commit Scotland to becoming nature positive by 2030 and to actively and substantially restoring nature by 2045 in a way intended to work for communities across the country.
The legislation forms a central part of Scotland’s response to the twin crises of climate change and nature loss.
It grants Ministers new powers to develop future legislation on wildfire management, sustainable forestry and the protection of internationally important sites.
The Bill also updates the legal framework for National Parks, recognising their leadership role in addressing environmental and societal challenges linked to climate and nature.
New requirements will see swift nest boxes installed in all new buildings, supporting urban biodiversity and helping protect a species under pressure due to the loss of traditional nesting spaces.
Unsustainable deer populations are identified as one of the major barriers to habitat recovery, with overgrazing limiting woodland regeneration and peatland restoration.
Provisions within the Bill will make it easier to control deer numbers where they are causing environmental damage, supporting wider efforts to restore forests and protect vulnerable habitats.
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy Gillian Martin said:
“This Bill creates the strongest statutory framework Scotland has ever had for nature recovery and is the result of constructive work across the Parliament, sending a clear message that the Scottish Parliament stands firm in our commitment to protect and restore our precious natural environment.
“Biodiversity is in crisis, both globally and at home, but Parliament’s vote to pass the Bill shows we are determined to chart a different course.
“This Bill commits us to becoming nature positive by 2030 and restoring our natural environment by 2045.
“It is vital that future generations do not inherit the consequences of inaction and, instead, inherit a legacy of commitment and hope.
“By putting nature targets into law, we are ensuring that the government can be held to account for delivering real, measurable change.
“Scotland’s natural environment underpins our economy, our wellbeing and our quality of life.
“Protecting it is not optional, it is essential.”
Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie said:
“This Bill provides better tools to manage our deer populations in a way that benefits both the environment and rural communities and creates business opportunities.
“If we want healthy communities, sustainable food production and vibrant rural industries in the future, we need thriving ecosystems today.
“We all know now more than ever we must act to protect and restore nature, this Bill will ensure that happens.
“I want to see venison at the heart of our approach to deer management, and the provisions in this Bill will help us maximise the opportunities this can bring for rural Scotland.
“We will continue working closely with farmers, crofters and land managers to deliver real results on the ground.”
