SCOTTISH BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY
On May 25 2004, Scotland's Biodiversity: It's in Your Hands. A strategy for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity in Scotland was launched by Allan Wilson, Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural Development. The launch took place at the Scottish Biodiversity Forum's 3rd Annual Conference in Murrayfield, Edinburgh.
In his speech, Allan Wilson reminded the audience of the close and successful partnership between the Executive and the Scottish Biodiversity Forum which had led to the development and publication of this "landmark strategy" which will place Scotland " at the leading edge of international biodiversity conservation."
The Minister went on to emphasise that the strategy was a clear demonstration of the Scottish Executive's commitment to Scotland's biodiversity " We are passionate about recognising and safeguarding our biodiversity, because biodiversity..is an essential foundation for every part of our lives."
In describing the strategy's significance, Mr Wilson repeatedly mentioned how important it is to involve the people of Scotland in order to achieve effective implementation: "People are the key to successful biodiversity conservation, and [the Strategy] offers a way to reconnect people with the natural world."
You can view or download a copy of the strategy below:
Scotland's Biodiversity: It's in Your Hands. A strategy for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity in Scotland.
To find out more about the launch of the Strategy and its development visit the Scottish Biodiversity Forum Website