Scotland: National Rural Network
Connecting Rural Scotland - Promoting Rural Growth

A new fund for local biodiversity projects has been announced. Over the next two years, up to £250,000 will be released by Scottish Natural Heritage to help communities deliver biodiversity conservation at a local level.

Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead announced the fund at the Scottish Biodiversity Forum Conference in Glasgow, which is taking place on 24th and 25th August. 

He said, "Our vision for Scotland is for a healthy, sustainable natural environment that supports our communities and helps us address the challenge of climate change. We can only do this if we act together to help protect the biodiversity that benefits society in so many ways. The community funding is an exciting development that will allow local people to make a real difference in their areas.

"We are also thinking of the bigger picture as our natural environment has a key role to play in achieving sustainable economic growth in Scotland.

"Our natural landscape and iconic species are closely-tied to our national identity and help attract tourists from across the world. A recent study of wildlife tourism showed more than a million trips are made and over £276 million is spent by people attracted by wildlife.

"Biodiversity also plays a massive part in supporting our industries. Our farmers and fishermen depend on the resources they harvest and need healthy ecosystems to ensure this continues.

"There is no single message that will promote the conservation of biodiversity but I hope we will reach some useful conclusions by thinking about what biodiversity does for us and how it can contribute to a sustainable, economic future."

Susan Davies, SNH Director of Policy and Advice, said, "As healthy ecosystems are so important for Scotland's future prosperity, we have made funding available for biodiversity projects through efficiency savings and a re-targeting of priorities at SNH. Communities across Scotland will be able to take on-the-ground action to help local wildlife and biodiversity with this important fund."

Photo courtesy of SNH as part of their celebration of 2010 the Year of International Biodiversity. You can see find out more in 50 free images of Scotland's natural beauty.