Biodiversity Programme Advisory Group - nature restoration target topic recommendations: final advice

Executive Summary

Statutory nature restoration targets within the proposed Natural Environment Bill will form a key part of the Scottish Government’s delivery framework for the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy. It is critical that expert advice is sought for recommendations on the targets to be considered for the Bill. The Biodiversity Programme Advisory Group (PAG) was brought together to discuss, shortlist and recommend a suite of high-level target topics to be considered in the Natural Environment Bill. Through a number of pre-meetings, a questionnaire and a one day workshop the PAG has recommended the following seven target topics:

1. Ecosystem integrity and health

2. Habitat condition and extent

3. Threatened species status

4. Civil society understanding, benefitting from and contributing to nature

5. Investment in nature

6. Enhancing environmental status for nature

7. Positive outcomes for biodiversity in public sector and government policy