Scotland's nature faces a fight to survive in the face of climate change, environmental groups have warned
A climate change red alert has been issued in Scotland.
Scotland’s nature, from our seas to the highest mountains, is coming under increasing pressure from climate change, a new report published today (Thursday 3 January) has shown.
Scotland’s Nature on Red Alert: climate change impacts on Scottish biodiversity, a joint report by WWF Scotland and Scottish Environment LINK, focuses on the impact our changing climate is having on species in five specific habitats across the country.
The report highlights that Atlantic salmon, snow buntings, white beaked dolphins, and machair and moorland habitats are all at risk as the effects of global warming set in across the country.
Dr Sam Gardner, acting director at WWF Scotland said that action must be taken to protect the natural environment.
He said: “Scotland is rightly proud of its diverse and unique flora and fauna, but we need to wake up to the fact it is increasingly under threat from climate change. It’s not just polar bears that are under threat, but our beloved Scottish species and habitats too.
“Nature is on the frontline of climate change. Even small increases in temperature threaten many of the plants and animals that give Scotland its iconic landscapes, but that we also depend on for food and pollination.
“That’s why it’s so important the Climate Change Bill currently going through the Scottish Parliament is strengthened to ensure that, within a generation, we end our role in climate change entirely.”
Craig Macadam, Scottish Environment LINK vice-chair said: “From peatlands to pearl mussels, Scotland is home to many globally significant species and habitats. With these wildlife treasures comes an international responsibility to protect them for future generations.
"We need to give our species and habitats a fighting chance to adapt to climate change. It is important that we restore the health of our nature and improve its resilience to climate change impacts. We therefore need to set ambitious targets within the Climate Change Bill, including ensuring that Scotland ends its contribution to climate change, and backs these up with action to secure the future of Scotland’s wildlife."
