Scottish Natural Heritage chief executive, Francesca Osowska

Following the Scottish Government’s declaration of a global climate emergency, 2020 looks set to be a critical year for the state of nature both at home and globally. A key meeting in support of the global Convention on Biological Diversity will be held in Edinburgh, while Glasgow will host the UN Climate Change Conference of Parties.

The recent State of Nature report made clear that our habitats and species are under threat like never before. Our biodiversity faces challenges and pressures including changing use of the land and sea, direct exploitation of our resources, pollution, invasive non-native species and climate change.

There is no doubt that the evidence we have is sobering but as we head into 2020 and a new decade my message is one of hope. It is not too late to act and as Scotland’s nature agency we are resolved to lead that charge. By improving the state of nature we can help solve the climate emergency.

Over the next year we will continue to focus on work to restore Scotland’s most threatened habitats and to support expanded woodland planting and peatland restoration to combat climate change and deliver wider benefits. We will also be focused on assessing Scotland’s most at risk species, as well as reducing pressures from non-native species.

In 2020 the eyes of the world will be on Scotland. My wish is for this to be a turning point, and by demonstrating the value and effectiveness of nature-based solutions, Scotland stands ready to lead.