With the latest Progress Report on the Scottish Government’s Biodiversity Strategy expected to be published in early 2017, this seminar will provide a timely opportunity for policymakers and other key stakeholders to consider the future policy priorities for biodiversity and natural capital.
Delegates will discuss the findings of the report and the next steps for reversing the decline of biodiversity in Scotland, including how local authorities can best engage with other stakeholders – such as conservation groups and landowners – when drafting Local Biodiversity Action Plans.
The guest of honour who will deliver a keynote address will be Roseanna Cunningham MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform, The Scottish Government.
Further sessions will examine both how Scotland can use its natural capital to promote sustainable economic growth, in advance of the devolution of powers over forestry and the Crown Estate to the Scottish Government, and priorities for developing the wider benefits of natural capital in terms of health and wellbeing, placemaking and community engagement.
Those taking part will include members of the Scottish Government and Parliament together with a range of key stakeholders including local authorities, landowners, conservation and environmental groups, academics, lawyers and the wider business community.
Others taking part include:
- Karen Anderson, Chair, Architecture and Design Scotland;
- David Balharry, Scotland Director, Rewilding Britain;
- Dr Mags Currie, Researcher, The James Hutton Institute;
- Susan Davies, Director of Conservation, Scottish Wildlife Trust;
- Anne Gray, Senior Policy Officer, Land Use and Environment, Scottish Land and Estates;
- Stuart Goodall, Chief Executive, Confor: Promoting Forestry and Wood;
- Jon Proctor, Chief Executive, Green Tourism;
- Dr Craig Rose, Founder, Seaweed & Co.;
- Andy Wells, Head of Property, Scotland Portfolio, The Crown Estate
- Evan Williams, Director, Environmental and Resource Economics
Alexander Burnett MSP, Member, Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee has kindly agreed to chair part of this seminar.
More information
Please visit the website for more information and how to book