Scotland’s Landscape
Why do we need action now
Scotland is known internationally for the distinctive and rich diversity of its landscape and cultural heritage. To continue to uphold this deserved reputation we need to be alive to and actively manage the changes that we face in the 21st century.
Landscapes have always been shaped by social, economic and technological developments . However, the pressing global crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are now recognised as key factors accelerating the pace of this change. Our landscapes are evolving as a consequence of these significant threats but they also need to positively change as a result of our response to them.
Our landscapes are evolving as a consequence of these significant threats but they also need to positively change as a result of our response to them.
Scotland is a signatory, through the UK Government, to the European Landscape Convention. The Convention emphasises the dynamic nature of all landscapes and the central role of people in recognising their value and securing their good stewardship.
The SLA and Scotland’s Landscape Charter promote action to safeguard our landscapes. Collaboration along with good place based planning and thoughtful landscape design is required to deliver diverse and resilient landscapes and make better, balanced choices for people and nature – if we are to thrive then so must our landscapes.
Through the committed action and collaboration of the Scottish Government, local government, stakeholders, landowners and communities of place we can ensure that Scotland’s landscape is safeguarded and can play a full part in delivering their many positive benefits, now and for future generations.
Landscape and Place for Success – our vison and recommendations for change
Join the SLA
The SLA will be open to any organisation or individual who commits to contributing to its aims or work. Ideally membership will span public, voluntary, community and private sector bodies.