Rachael Hamilton MSP has demanded the Scottish Government tackle biodiversity loss and climate change with a moorland strategy.
She took the opportunity to criticise the First Minister over failed peatland and climate targets, as well as the loss of 50% of Scotland’s iconic species since 1994.
The Scottish Government’s own figures show that they have failed to meet their 20,000 hectare target for the past 4 years. Last year alone, only 5,600 hectares were restored.
Following a virtual call with Scottish Gamekeepers’ Association, the Borders MSP urged the First Minister to adopt a strategy to reverse the loss of peatland and bird species such as waders.
Scotland’s iconic heather landscapes have been under threat, and despite millions being spent by the Scottish Government, little progress has been made on restoration, bird species and biodiversity continue to decline.
Rachael Hamilton believes urgent action is required if the valuable asset is not lost forever.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
“Scotland’s moorlands are iconic and world renowned.
“Yet the SNP Government have failed to restore them, and in turn we have seen biodiversity decline.
“Rural workers and gamekeepers work hard to protect these environments, and through their practices, species such as waders have been protected.
“But we need to see the SNP Government go further, by providing more funding for peatland restoration as well as supporting rural workers.
“This is why I have called for a Moorland Strategy.
“We cannot risk losing these precious environments forever”.
