Caring for nature
We help enhance Scotland's natural diversity and help the people of Scotland engage with our nature and landscapes.
This means maintaining rich and diverse wildlife and habitats on land and at sea and stopping the loss of biodiversity. It means establishing and overseeing the effective management of protected areas (such as our National Nature Reserves, Sites of Special Scientific Interest or Natura 2000 sites).
It also means helping the people of Scotland achieve a greater understanding and appreciation of our nature through promotional campaigns, knowledge sharing and education.
Species Action Framework
Some species require targeted conservation action. The priority is to focus on those species where significant gains can be secured.
Protected areas
Many of the best examples of Scotland's nature and landscapes are designated as protected areas. Find out about SNH's role.
Licensing
SNH licenses actions that would otherwise be illegal, allowing legitimate activities such as photography to continue.
Rural development and Natural Care
SNH helps to administer funding to land managers for action that delivers environmental, social or economic benefits in rural areas.
Increasing people's awareness
Encouraging people to enjoy, understand and look after Scotland's nature and landscapes is key to its future.
Helping people learn about nature and landscapes
We are committed to to helping people to learn about nature and landscapes and how to look after them, whether in the classroom, workplace or outdoors.
Volunteering
SNH research shows that over 23,000 people in Scotland are already involved in environmental volunteering.