Responding to climate change

Climate change is the most serious threat over coming decades to Scotland's natural heritage. By the 2080s Scotland will be warmer, especially in summer, with snowless winters in some parts; winters may become wetter and summers drier. Species and habitats may shift northwards or up hillsides, but many may be unable to keep pace with the rates of climatic change and some species may become extinct.

The natural heritage can help both to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and help society to adapt to the impacts of a changing climate.

Land management can increase the carbon stored in soils and vegetation, and reduce carbon inputs and losses. Carbon stored in peatlands is equivalent to at least 180 years of greenhouse gas emissions from Scotland at current rates. Appropriate new woodlands in suitable locations can reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Maintaining the resilience of ecosystems will enable them to provide the services that support human life as well as biodiversity. Restoring natural processes in freshwater systems can reduce flood risk, and natural habitats can provide protection against sea-level rise. Reducing other pressures on ecosystems, e.g. from pollution and habitat loss, will help nature to be more resilient to climate change.

Protected sites will remain important for conservation because low nutrient levels, greater habitat diversity and natural processes will continue to favour high biodiversity.

Climate change and the natural heritage

Our approach and action plan set out how we will respond to the issues of climate change.

Renewables

At SNH we strongly support the development of renewable energy if it replaces the burning of fossil fuels and leads to net carbon savings.