National Parks have vital role for climate and community
Scotland’s National Parks are playing a vital role for our environment and nature, and for local communities, says Scottish Green co-leader Lorna Slater MSP.
Ms Slater’s comments follow the publication of a groundbreaking new report by Scottish Environment Link, which has found that, as well as having vast benefits for nature, Scotland’s two existing National Parks regularly generate hundreds of millions of pounds a year for the economy.
At present the Scottish Government is considering whether a third National Park should be created in Galloway.
The pledge to create at least one new National Park in Scotland by 2026 was a key commitment of the Bute House Agreement that saw Scottish Greens entering government for the first time.
As the former Minister for Biodiversity, Ms Slater led on the project and oversaw a lot of the process that has led to the designation.
Ms Slater said: “Scotland’s National Parks are really special and beautiful places, and are rightly celebrated around the world. When the Scottish Greens were in government we pushed hard for a third one to be created.
“I have no doubt that if it is given National Park status, Galloway will be just as renowned and iconic as the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs. The status will also lead to greater investment in the local economy while creating high quality jobs, especially for local young people.
“Our National Parks are jewels in our nation’s crown and have been the backdrop to millions of wonderful memories. They are having a transformative impact for local nature and communities, and they are responsible for a lot of vital investment, protections and opportunities.
“If we are to build a greener future for Scotland then our National Park network has a key role to play. I welcome this report and hope we will see even more National Parks across Scotland in the years ahead.”