Draft Environment Strategy: strategic environmental assessment

Chapter 5: Strategic Environmental Assessment Findings

5.1 This chapter of the Environmental Report sets out the assessment findings and the significant environmental effects of the Draft Environment Strategy by outcome. The Environment Strategy includes eight outcomes that will support delivery of its vision. Four outcomes describe Scottish Government’s goals for tackling climate change and restoring the natural environment, in Scotland and overseas. Two outcomes describe the positive transformations in society and economy needed to support these goals. Two cross-cutting outcomes explain how this will help to achieve wider goals for resilience and for social justice in Scotland and overseas. The assessment identifies effects in relation to each SEA objective arising directly from the Draft Environment Strategy and any effects, which would indirectly impact on the baseline environment.

Summary of assessment findings

Outcome 1: Scotland’s biodiversity is restored and regenerated

5.2 Existing policy commitments outlined in Outcome 1, including the Strategic Framework for Biodiversity in Scotland, the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy and the Scottish Biodiversity Delivery Plan 2024-2030, have a direct positive effect on SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna in the medium to long-term. These existing policy commitments aim to restore and regenerate biodiversity by 2045, ensuring Scotland is nature positive by 2030 and setting statutory nature restoration targets.

5.3 Existing policy commitments outlined in Outcome 1 relate to large-scale habitat connectivity, ecological connectivity, sustainable land and marine management, ensuring a resilient and visually rich environment, with the Biodiversity Delivery Plan containing 130+ actions to support Nature Networks, and deliver green and blue infrastructure. These are likely to have a range of benefits for both communities and the environment by supporting emissions reductions, enhancing climate resilience and delivering benefits for landscape, health and wellbeing. Therefore, these existing policy commitments are also expected to have indirect positive effects in relation to SEA objectives 2: Population and human health, 3a: Climate change mitigation, 3b: Climate change adaptation, 4: Air, 4: Soil, 6: Water, 7: Cultural heritage, including architectural and archaeological heritage, 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape and 9: Material assets in the medium to long term.

5.4 Beyond existing policy commitments, the Draft Environment Strategy does not set out any additional future actions under Outcome 1. As such negligible effects are expected for all nine SEA objectives.

Outcome 2: We have ended Scotland’s contribution to climate change

5.5 Existing policy commitments set out under Outcome 2 have direct positive effects in relation to SEA objective 3a: Climate change mitigation. Current actions and policy commitments, including Climate Change Plan carbon budgets, the £250 million peatland restoration programme, the Circular Economy and Waste Route Map and other measures for stepping up emissions reductions, will all bring about change in the medium to long term.

5.6 Existing policy commitments set out under Outcome 2 are closely linked to the protection, maintenance and enhancement of Scotland’s environment and sustainable use of resources. Therefore, indirect positive effects are also expected for existing policy actions in relation to SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 2: Population and human health, 3b: Climate change adaptation, 4: Air, 5: Soil 6: Water, 7: Cultural heritage, 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape, and 9: Material assets in the medium to long term.

5.7 Future actions in Outcome 2 will build on these efforts, including measures such as the proposed carbon tax on large agricultural estates incentivising sustainable practices including tree planting, peatland restoration and pilots to reduce methane emissions from livestock. The next Climate Change Plan (2026-2040) and Circular Economy Strategy will drive further emissions reductions, and infrastructure projects and policy focused on public transport and EV charging will accelerate the transition to cleaner transport. Overall, these future actions set out under Outcome 2 are projected to have direct positive effects in relation to SEA objective 3a: Climate change mitigation.

5.8 Indirect positive effects are also expected for SEA objective 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna as future actions focus on integrating biodiversity goals with climate change mitigation and adaptation. Similarly, measures for emissions reductions including the promotion of sustainable transport, use of nature-based solutions, and embedding Circular Economy principles for sustainable use of resources will likely deliver multi-functional benefits for a range of environmental receptors, with indirect positive effects projects for SEA objectives 2: Population and human health and 3b: Climate change adaptation. Indirect positive effects are also expected for SEA objective 4: Air as several future actions will further cut pollutants from a number of industries. Sustainable use of resources, including land, peatland restoration and embedding sustainable farming practices are also expected to result in indirect positive effects for SEA objective 5: Soil and related measures will also help mitigate flooding, improving water quality and minimising pollution. With regard to SEA objective 7: Cultural heritage, indirect positive effects are also anticipated, as mitigating climate change and improving resilience will reduce harm to the historic environment. For SEA objective 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape, the carbon tax on agricultural estates will likely incentivise tree planting and wetland restoration, improving these landscapes. Finally, embedding energy efficiency across all sectors and incentivising sustainable practices will also result in indirect positive effects for SEA objective 9: Material assets.

Outcome 3: We minimise pollution and waste in our environment

5.9 The existing policies outlined in Outcome 3 provide indirect positive effects for SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 2: Population and human health, 3a: Climate change mitigation, 3b: Climate change adaptation, 5: Soil, 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage and 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape. The Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 strategy and the River Basin Management Plan help reduce emissions and pollution, supporting ecosystem resilience, improving public health, and limiting damage to historic sites and natural landscapes. Measures to reduce plastic waste, including bans on single-use plastics and litter prevention strategies, further protect habitats and public spaces. While these policies will deliver long-term benefits, some, such as the carrier bag charge and air quality improvements, offer short-term positive effects. For SEA objective 5: Soil, current policies reduce contamination through air quality improvements, water pollution controls, and restrictions on hazardous chemicals. The effects will develop gradually over the medium to long term as sustainable land-use practices take effect.

5.10 For SEA objective 4: Air, 6: Water, and 9: Material assets, current policies have direct positive effects, as they actively reduce emissions, improve waste management, and enhance resource efficiency. The Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 strategy reduces key pollutants through Low Emission Zones and sustainable agriculture. The River Basin Management Plan prevents water pollution and enhances flood resilience, while measures to reduce plastic waste contribute to cleaner water bodies. The Circular Economy and Waste Route Map supports sustainable material use, lowering reliance on virgin resources. These direct positive effects are expected to grow over the medium to long term, with some immediate gains.

5.11 Future policy actions outlined in Outcome 3 will support pollution reduction and improve resource management. A long-term air quality framework aligned with WHO guidelines, the fourth River Basin Management Plan, and strengthened chemical regulations will further reduce pollution. New measures, such as extended producer responsibility for packaging, a ban on single-use vapes, and a deposit return scheme, will limit waste and environmental contamination. These policies are therefore expected to deliver medium to long-term benefits in relation to SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 2: Population and human health, 3a: Climate change mitigation, 3b: Climate change adaptation, 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage, and 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape, although their full impact depends on effective implementation.

5.12 For SEA objectives 4: Air, 6: Water, and 9: Material Assets, future actions will provide direct positive effects, strengthening pollution control, improving water resource management, and promoting a circular economy. The alignment of chemical regulations with EU standards will help limit emissions and prevent contamination, while new waste management policies will further reduce plastic pollution and promote recycling. These actions are expected to enhance long-term sustainability, although the scale of benefits remains uncertain.

5.13 For SEA objective 5: Soil, future policy actions are projected to have indirect positive effects, with reduced contamination from plastics and hazardous chemicals. Air quality improvements may further limit soil degradation, while water management efforts will prevent contamination from industrial and agricultural runoff. These long-term benefits will depend on the strength of regulatory enforcement.

Outcome 4: Scotland’s global environmental impact is sustainable

5.14 Existing policy actions outlined in Outcome 4 have a direct positive effect on SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 3a: Climate change mitigation, 4: Air, and 9: Material assets. The Circular Economy and Waste Route Map, the Local Food Strategy, and Scotland’s trade due diligence and advocacy within the WTO contribute to waste reduction, reduced emissions, and responsible resource management. These policies help protect biodiversity by reducing land degradation and pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions through waste minimisation and local food production, and improve air quality by cutting landfill and incineration emissions. The ban on plastic waste exports, kerbside textile collection, and support for sustainable textile management also provide short-term benefits, while broader waste reduction and trade policies will have medium- to long-term effects.

5.15 For SEA objective 2: Population and human health, current measures such as the Circular Economy and Waste Route Map, the Local Food Strategy, and international climate justice efforts have an indirect positive effect. These policies enhance food security, reduce pollution, and promote resilient communities, but their benefits will emerge primarily in the medium to long term.

5.16 Current policies also have an indirect positive effect on SEA objective 3b: Climate change adaptation by strengthening climate resilience through sustainable food systems, responsible trade practices, and international biodiversity commitments. The Global Renewables Centre supports climate adaptation by promoting energy security. However, the magnitude and timescale of these benefits are uncertain, as they depend on global climate actions and policy implementation.

5.17 Future policies outlined in Outcome 4, including the forthcoming Circular Economy Strategy and further evidence gathering on local food systems, are expected to strengthen and expand existing positive effects. These actions are projected to have an indirect positive impact on SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity flora and fauna, 2: Population and human health, 3a: Climate change mitigation, 3b: Climate change adaptation, 4: Air and 9: Material assets. By embedding circular economy principles more deeply, these measures may further reduce industrial emissions, improve air quality, and enhance resource efficiency, leading to medium- to long-term benefits. However, as specific policy details are not yet available, the extent of these effects remains uncertain.

Outcome 5: Scotland’s society is transformed for the better by living sustainably, in harmony with nature

5.18 Current policy actions outlined in Outcome 5 are focused on promoting green and blue infrastructure, sustainable diets, active travel, and public transport, which have direct positive effects on SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 2: Population and human health, 3a: Climate change mitigation, and 3b: Climate change adaptation. These measures enhance biodiversity through improved habitat connectivity, reduce carbon emissions, and improve environmental quality, particularly through cleaner air and healthier lifestyles. These effects are expected to materialise in the short to medium term. Current actions also bring direct benefits for SEA objectives 4: Air, 5: Soil and 6: Water through emission reductions, better water management, and increased soil protection due to green infrastructure. These improvements are likely to be in the short to medium term. Regarding SEA objectives 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage and 8: Landscape, seascape, and townscape, the integration of green and blue infrastructure and green architecture in urban areas may result in both positive and negative indirect effects depending on how they are designed. While these changes may alter the visual character of cultural heritage sites and landscapes, the effects are expected to occur over the medium to long term as green infrastructure matures.

5.19 Future policy actions outlined in Outcome 5 build upon current measures by supporting further sustainable living, increasing public engagement with nature, and addressing the health risks posed by climate change. These actions, such as promoting sustainable food systems, nature-based education, and strengthening climate change mitigation and adaptation, will have indirect positive effects in relation to SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity flora and fauna, 2: Population and human health, 3a: Climate change mitigation and 3b: Climate change adaptation in the medium to long term. Additionally, through the promotion of green infrastructure and organic food production positive effects are also expected in relation to SEA objectives 4: Air, 5: Soil and 6: Water. While the effects are expected to be indirect, they will be realised in the medium to long term as infrastructure matures. The continued support for green infrastructure and green architecture in urban settings will bring further indirect positive effects on SEA objectives 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage and 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape, as these elements enhance the built environment. These changes will be gradual, with more significant effects occurring as green infrastructure matures over the medium to long term. Additionally, future actions will reinforce current policies related to material assets, particularly through reducing material consumption, supporting waste management, and promoting sustainable food systems. These changes will result in indirect positive effects relating to SEA objective 9: Material assets, expected in the medium term as new societal behaviours and infrastructure become established.

Outcome 6: Scotland’s net zero, nature positive and circular economy thrives within the planet’s sustainable limits

5.20 The existing policy actions outlined in Outcome 6 predominantly result in indirect positive effects in the medium to long term across several SEA objectives.

5.21 For SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna, 3a: Climate change mitigation, 3b: Climate change adaptation, 4: Air, 5: Soil, 6: Water and 9: Material assets, existing policies focus on biodiversity conservation, carbon reduction, air quality improvements, and sustainable resource use. Measures such as biodiversity metrics under National Planning Framework 4, the Circular Economy and Waste Route Map, and taxation mechanisms (e.g. the Land Emissions Carbon Tax) support nature-positive land use and industrial decarbonisation. These efforts are expected to enhance ecosystem resilience, cut pollution, and promote renewable energy investment. However, the benefits will take time to materialise as they depend on infrastructure development and policy implementation.

5.22 For SEA objective 2: Population and human health, indirect positive effects are anticipated in the medium to long term through improved air and water quality, increased green spaces, and economic stability driven by green business models. Policies promoting responsible land use, and biodiversity conservation contribute to public health benefits, but the extent of these effects will depend on how quickly and effectively measures are put into practice.

5.23 Despite these positive trends, no effects are identified for SEA objectives 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage and 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape.

5.24 Future policy actions outlined in Outcome 6 are expected to reinforce and expand the benefits of current policies, with continued emphasis on indirect positive effects in the medium to long term.

5.25 For SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 3a: Climate change mitigation, 3b: Climate change adaptation, 4: Air, and 9: Material assets, future measures include the Bioenergy Policy Statement, stricter product standards, a new agricultural framework, and whole life carbon assessments. These policies aim to further embed sustainability into land use, energy planning, and industry. Additionally, reforms to electricity market arrangements, marine conservation strategies, and strengthened financial incentives (e.g. a potential Carbon Land Tax) will enhance Scotland’s transition to a low-carbon economy. These actions are likely to support emissions reductions, biodiversity protection, and climate resilience, but their success will depend on policy coordination, regulatory enforcement, and investment in sustainable infrastructure.

5.26 For SEA objective 2: Population and human health, future initiatives will focus on improving food security, energy affordability, and green job creation. Expanding social enterprises, increasing climate literacy in the public sector, and strengthening sustainability standards are expected to deliver indirect positive effects in the medium to long term, supporting both environmental and socio-economic wellbeing.

5.27 There are no policy actions identified in Outcome 6 that result in an effect in relation to SEA objectives 5: Soil, 6: Water, 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage and 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape.

Outcome 7: We build Scotland’s resilience to climate change and other global environmental risks

5.28 Existing policy actions outlined in Outcome 7, particularly through the Scottish National Adaptation Plan and the Biodiversity Delivery Plan, are assessed as having indirect positive effects on SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 2: Population and human health, 4: Air, 5: Soil, 6: Water, 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage, 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape, and 9: Material assets. These effects stem from nature-based solutions, sustainable land and water management, pollution reduction, conservation efforts, and improved public services. Together, these measures contribute to protecting ecosystems, reducing climate risks, and promoting healthier environments.

5.29 For SEA objectives 3a: Climate change mitigation and 3b: Climate change adaptation, existing policy is likely to have indirect positive effects on mitigation and direct positive effects on adaptation, both in the medium to long term. Climate change mitigation is supported through policies that enhance carbon sequestration, promote low-carbon infrastructure, and reduce emissions. Adaptation benefits arise from strengthened infrastructure, biodiversity conservation, and improved public services, ensuring Scotland is better prepared for climate impacts.

5.30 Future policy actions outlined in Outcome 7 are also expected to have predominantly indirect positive effects, with benefits emerging in the medium to long term. For SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 4: Air, 5: Soil, 6: Water, 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape, and 9: Material assets resilience-building measures such as ecosystem restoration, nature-based defences, improved environmental risk management, and sustainable land and water practices will enhance environmental quality and protect natural resources.

5.31 Similarly, for SEA objectives 2: Population and human health and 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage, the future policy emphasis on climate risk integration, strengthened public services, reduced pollution, and adaptive heritage management is expected to result in indirect positive effects. These measures will safeguard communities, historic buildings, and cultural landscapes from climate-related threats while supporting a just transition towards sustainability.

5.32 For SEA objectives 3a: Climate change mitigation and 3b: Climate change adaptation, future policy actions will indirectly support mitigation and directly enhance adaptation in the medium to long term. The integration of climate risk management into government planning, ecosystem restoration, and the promotion of greener technologies will contribute to emission reductions, while strengthened decision-making and proactive adaptation policies will increase Scotland’s resilience to climate change.

Outcome 8: These transformations are achieved through a just transition and support climate and environmental justice

5.33 The current policy actions outlined in Outcome 8 will largely have indirect positive effects across multiple SEA objectives. SEA objectives 1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna, 3a: Climate change mitigation, 3b: Climate change adaptation, 4: Air, 5: Soil, 6: Water, 7: Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage, 8: Landscape, seascape and townscape, and 9: Material assets all benefit indirectly in the short, medium, and long term from measures such as community-led Climate Action Hubs, forestry projects, and sustainable land management practices. These initiatives enhance biodiversity, reduce emissions, strengthen climate resilience, improve water retention and air quality, and protect landscapes, cultural heritage, and infrastructure from environmental degradation.

5.34 For SEA objective 2: Population and human health, direct positive effects are identified, particularly in the medium and long term. The integration of just transition principles reduces socio-economic inequalities, promotes mental and physical wellbeing, and fosters community resilience through investments in local economies and environmental quality improvements. Some short-term benefits are also expected from existing measures like the Just Transition Fund, Community Climate Action Hubs, and climate justice initiatives focused on vulnerable groups.

5.35 Regarding future policy actions outlined in Outcome 8, the only SEA objective expected to have effects is SEA objective 2: Population and human health, where a direct positive effect is anticipated in the medium to long term. This is due to the planned consideration of recommendations from the Stockholm Environment Institute on community action and engagement, which is likely to enhance community resilience, strengthen social cohesion, and promote mental and physical wellbeing.

5.36 The future actions outlined in Outcome 8 are not expected to have any effects in relation to all other SEA objectives.

Cumulative, secondary and synergistic effects

5.37 This section of the Environmental Report sets out the potential cumulative, secondary, and synergistic effects which may arise from the actions in the Draft Environmental Strategy. It explores the potential for these types of effects in relation to each of the SEA topics.

Biodiversity, flora and fauna

5.38 Outcome 1 focuses on restoring and regenerating Scotland’s biodiversity, outlining existing policy commitments which will deliver positive effects for biodiversity through the delivery of the Strategic Framework for Biodiversity, Scottish Biodiversity and Delivery Plan 2024-2030.

5.39 Further to this, all of the future actions identified for the other Outcomes are expected to deliver indirect positive effects for Scotland’s biodiversity to some degree. Outcomes 2 and 7 include measures to better integrate biodiversity goals with climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, such as supporting the use of nature-based solutions. Outcome 5 includes measures to increase people’s connection with nature, supporting blue-green infrastructure and habitat connectivity. Outcome 3 focuses on minimising pollution and waste which will have indirect benefits for biodiversity by supporting habitats and ecosystems from environmental degradation. Outcome 4 incorporates a range of actions regarding Scotland’s global environment impact, with future policy including waste reduction and habitat protection likely to deliver positive ecological impacts domestically and globally. Outcome 6 includes future actions which will inform future policy on bioenergy, marine planning and agriculture, ensuring outcomes for biodiversity are embedded. Finally, Outcome 8 sets out existing policy measures for supporting community-led initiatives focused on local stewardship of natural resources and sustainable land management, which will likely deliver some indirect benefits for biodiversity.

5.40 Overall, positive cumulative effects are expected in relation to biodiversity, flora and fauna.

Population and human health

5.41 The eight Outcomes of the Draft Environment Strategy collectively contribute to improving the health and wellbeing of the people of Scotland, with both direct and indirect positive effects related to population and human health. A number of the actions and policy commitments, particularly those relevant to benefiting Scotland’s society, are likely to have direct benefits. Outcome 5 includes promoting green and blue infrastructure, sustainable diets, active travel and public transport which provide benefits for public health. While the effects of Outcome 8 are more limited, actions focused on supporting community action and engagement are likely to support community resilience, strengthen social cohesion and promote physical and mental wellbeing.

5.42 Actions in Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 aim to deliver nature restoration, reduce emissions, minimise pollution and encourage sustainable practices which will indirectly deliver positive effects for Scotland’s health and wellbeing. Improving and promoting sustainable travel, integrating green infrastructure, and embedding nature-based solutions will have benefits for public health and mental wellbeing. Actions focused on the protection of the environment, including air quality and water environments, and minimising pollution and waste, will better safeguard public health. Several actions will also indirectly help protect communities from future climate risks including extreme weather events, enhance food security, and promote resilient communities. Outcome 7 focuses on improving environmental risk management which will better support economic stability and strengthen climate resilience. Outcome 8 supports future community engagement with resilient connected communities.

5.43 Overall, positive cumulative effects expected in relation to population and human health across all eight of the Outcomes in the Draft Environment Strategy.

Climatic factors: climate mitigation

5.44 The eight Outcomes of the Draft Environment Strategy collectively contribute to climate change mitigation, with a variety of actions which will help minimise greenhouse gas emissions. All of the eight Outcomes will deliver direct or indirect positive effects related to this SEA objective.

5.45 Outcome 2 focuses directly on actions to drive further emissions reductions with targeted interventions and systemic changes across all sectors. For example, future actions include incentivising sustainable land use practices, driving further emissions reductions through the next Climate Change Plan (2026 – 2040) and Circular Economy Strategy, and accelerating the transition to cleaner transport.

5.46 The remaining Outcomes are also expected to deliver positive effects related to climate change mitigation. Outcome 1 focuses on delivering nature restoration, thereby providing associated carbon sequestration benefits. Outcome 2 includes measures to reduce emissions through the proposed carbon tax on large agricultural estates, increasing public transport use and expanded EV charging.

5.47 The actions within Outcome 3 are directed at minimising waste and pollution, which will also have indirect benefits for climate mitigation, by improving air and water quality, cutting waste, regulating chemicals, and cutting emissions from transport and industry. Outcome 4 focuses on embedding sustainability into Scotland’s economy and global partnerships and Outcome 5 focuses on Scotland’s society which will implement strategic measures for more sustainable living and may influence behaviour change. Outcome 6 includes policy and financial measures, such as supporting the Green Industrial Strategy and renewable energy planning. Overall, the variety of actions within these Outcomes related to nature restoration, minimising waste, encouraging sustainable use of resources and embedding sustainable practices across all sectors, are expected to deliver indirect benefits for climate change mitigation.

5.48 Outcome 7 focuses on climate change adaptation and climate risk management through integrating climate and nature related risks into horizon scanning in government. Finally, while the effects of Outcome 8 are limited, the just transition approach supports the energy efficiency of homes and decarbonising infrastructure, transport and communities.

5.49 In combination, the future actions identified in the Draft Environment Strategy are expected to deliver positive cumulative effects for SEA objective 3a: Climate change mitigation.

Climatic factors: climate change adaptation

5.1 The eight Outcomes of the Draft Environment Strategy collectively contribute to climate change adaptation and resilience. The majority of the Outcomes are expected to deliver some positive effect in relation to climate change adaptation.

5.2 Outcome 1 and 5 support nature restoration and the expansion of green and blue infrastructure, which will have indirect benefits for climate change adaptation by helping mitigate flooding and providing shading and cooling. Outcome 2 supports adaptation through greater integration of adaptation into broader strategies. The policies within Outcome 3, such as the development of the fourth River Basin Management Plan, are likely to help enhance resilience and ensure communities and natural habitats can better cope with the impacts of climate change. Outcome 4 aims to support localising food systems, helping to improve their security.

5.3 Outcome 6 includes actions which will support Scotland’s ability to respond to climate challenges at both local and national levels. Actions are expected to help encourage sustainable land use practices, enhance economic resilience and strengthen partnerships and policy coordination. For example, expansion of circular economy policies and whole life carbon assessments in infrastructure will help ensure that developments are designed with long-term climate resilience in mind. Outcome 7 includes the integration of climate risk management into government planning, including strengthened decision-making and proactive adaptation policies. Finally, Outcome 8 focuses on delivering a just transition, which includes ensuring infrastructure, transport and communities are climate resilient.

5.4 Together across all eight Outcomes, positive cumulative effects are identified for SEA objective 3b: Climate adaptation.

Air

5.5 The eight Outcomes of the Draft Environment Strategy collectively contribute to improving Scotland’s air quality by reducing concentrations of harmful atmospheric pollutants and avoiding their emissions. In particular, Outcome 3 directly focuses on minimising pollution and waste in the environment, with identified future actions likely to help strengthen regulations and reduce emissions at the source.

5.6 Outcomes 1 and 2 focus on biodiversity restoration and climate change mitigation which indirectly benefit air quality through supporting natural processes that help to reduce harmful atmospheric pollutants and emissions. Actions within Outcome 4 include exploring opportunities for localising food systems, which is likely to reduce emissions from transport and improve air quality. Outcome 5 supports measures for promoting green and blue infrastructure which will have indirect benefits for air quality.

5.7 Future policy actions outlined in Outcomes 6 and 7 will help to integrate decarbonisation into a range of sectors, thereby aiding in reducing emissions and improving air quality. The future actions will help promote nature-based solutions, cleaner business practices and proactive risk management. Measures to tackle emissions will help reduce pollution and support better air quality. Future actions outlined in Outcome 8 are not expected to have an effect on this SEA objective, but existing policy measures support decarbonisation measures and reducing emissions which may help to improve air quality.

5.8 Overall, positive cumulative effects are expected for air quality from the actions set out in the Draft Environment Strategy.

Soil

5.9 The eight Outcomes of the Draft Environment Strategy collectively contribute to conserving and enhancing Scotland’s soil resources and geological sites through measures that improve soil stability, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable land use. In particular, Outcome 1 directly supports soil conservation through biodiversity restoration initiatives, such as afforestation and peatland restoration, which stabilise soils, prevent erosion, and enhance carbon and nutrient storage. Nature-friendly farming practices also improve soil health by reducing chemical use and increasing vegetation cover.

5.10 Outcome 2 reinforces these benefits through climate change mitigation policies, including the £250 million peatland restoration programme, which protects degraded soils and enhances carbon storage. Proposed future actions, such as a carbon tax on large agricultural estates and pilots to reduce livestock emissions, are expected to further strengthen soil health by minimising nitrogen pollution and promoting sustainable land management. Outcome 3 focuses on reducing soil contamination through pollution control measures, including the Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 strategy and the River Basin Management Plan, which limit the deposition of harmful pollutants and reduce runoff. Planned future actions, such as aligning chemical regulations with EU standards and introducing extended producer responsibility for packaging, are likely to further protect soil quality.

5.11 Outcome 5 supports soil conservation through the promotion of green and blue infrastructure, which enhances soil resilience to rainfall and drought. Outcome 6 encourages sustainable resource use through the Circular Economy and Waste Route Map and the Biodiversity Delivery Plan, helping to minimise waste emissions and soil degradation. Outcome 7 strengthens soil resilience to climate risks through the Scottish National Adaptation Plan, which promotes nature-based solutions and sustainable land management to prevent soil erosion and degradation. Outcome 8 supports community-led land management projects that enhance soil permeability and water retention, reducing flood risk and improving soil health.

5.12 Overall, positive cumulative effects are expected for soil resources and geological sites from the actions set out in the Draft Environment Strategy.

Water

5.13 The eight Outcomes in the Draft Environment Strategy collectively contribute to improving the quality of Scotland’s waterbodies and groundwater while enhancing flood resilience. Outcomes 1 and 2 focus on biodiversity restoration and climate change adaptation, which indirectly benefit water quality through peatland and wetland restoration, reforestation, and nature-based flood management solutions. The expansion of these efforts under future policies, such as the proposed carbon tax on agricultural estates and the next Climate Change Plan, is expected to further reduce pollution and enhance water retention. Outcome 3 has a more direct impact, as policies under the River Basin Management Plan and pollution control measures improve water quality and limit contamination risks. Future enhancements, including stricter air quality controls and extended producer responsibility for waste, will further reduce water pollution and help prevent flooding.

5.14 Outcomes 5 and 7 reinforce these improvements through green and blue infrastructure and climate resilience planning. Vegetation cover and sustainable drainage systems will enhance infiltration, filtration, and flood mitigation. The National Adaptation Plan promotes nature-based solutions such as wetland protection and river restoration, ensuring long-term water security. Although Outcome 8 contributes to climate risk management, its direct effects on water are limited.

5.15 Outcomes 4 and 6 do not currently outline any direct or indirect water-related actions, indicating a potential gap in policy integration.

5.16 Overall, positive cumulative effects are expected for water from the actions set out in the Draft Environment Strategy.

Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage

5.17 The eight Outcomes collectively contribute to enhancing Scotland’s settlements, historic environment, and cultural heritage by promoting biodiversity restoration, climate resilience, pollution reduction, and sustainable urban development. The Outcomes all provide indirect positive effects in the medium to long term in relation to cultural heritage in Scotland.

5.18 Outcomes 1, 2, and 3 ensure that Scotland’s landscapes and built heritage benefit from nature recovery, climate change adaptation, and pollution control, preventing degradation of historic structures while improving air and water quality. Outcome 5 supports green and blue infrastructure, which, while beneficial, may alter settlement character over time. Outcome 7 integrates climate resilience into planning, protecting historic sites from flooding and environmental risks. Outcome 8 supports long-term resilience against climate-related damage which indirectly benefits historical assets.

5.19 Outcomes 4 and 6 do not currently outline any direct or indirect cultural heritage-related actions, indicating a potential gap in policy integration.

5.20 Overall, due to the indirect effects of the outcomes no cumulative effects are expected for cultural heritage from the actions set out in the Draft Environment Strategy.

Landscape, seascape and townscape

5.21 The eight Outcomes in the Draft Environment Strategy collectively contribute to enhancing the character and quality of Scotland’s landscapes, townscapes, and seascapes through a variety of environmental, planning, and conservation measures. The eight Outcomes primarily generate indirect positive effects over the medium to long term.

5.22 The restoration of biodiversity as a result of policy in Outcome 1 fosters ecological connectivity and enriches both urban and historic environments, ensuring their resilience and sustainability. Climate policies in Outcome 2 support landscape conservation through peatland restoration, sustainable urban planning, and reduced car dependency, helping to maintain scenic quality and mitigate environmental degradation. Pollution reduction and waste management strategies outlined in Outcome 3 improve air and water quality, preserving natural beauty and reducing visual blight across Scotland’s built and natural environments.

5.23 The promotion of green and blue infrastructure by Outcome 5 influences the character of urban and rural spaces, with potential long-term positive and negative effects as landscapes evolve. Climate change adaptation strategies within Outcome 7 strengthen ecosystem resilience through nature-based solutions, ensuring Scotland’s distinctive natural and cultural heritage remains safeguarded. Addressing climate-induced loss and damage, as aided by policy actions of Outcome 8, also helps protect landscapes and townscapes from environmental risks, contributing to long-term stability and visual integrity.

5.24 However, Outcomes 4 and 6 do not currently outline specific actions with direct effects on landscape, seascape, or townscape, highlighting areas for further policy development.

5.25 Overall, due to the indirect nature of effects no cumulative effects are expected for landscape, seascape or townscape from the actions set out in the Draft Environment Strategy.

Material assets

5.26 The eight Outcomes in the Draft Environment Strategy collectively contribute to the more efficient use of natural resources and energy in Scotland through a variety of interconnected strategies. Outcomes 1 and 2 focus on promoting sustainable land, water, and marine management, integrating biodiversity, and supporting circular economy principles. These actions reduce waste, enhance carbon sequestration, and encourage greener transport options, leading to medium- to long-term improvements in energy efficiency. Outcome 3 furthers these efforts by minimising pollution and waste, encouraging cleaner transport, sustainable water use, and recycling, which directly reduces emissions and energy demands. Similarly, Outcome 4 advances waste reduction and responsible global supply chains, with future policies likely enhancing local food production and reuse, all contributing to lower energy consumption.

5.27 Outcome 5 emphasises behavioural change towards sustainable consumption and waste management, supporting circular economy goals, although the positive effects will materialise over time. Outcome 6 plays a pivotal role by expanding renewable energy, improving energy infrastructure, and promoting energy-efficient building standards, ensuring direct benefits in the medium to long term. Outcome 7 focuses on resilience, integrating climate adaptation into infrastructure and industry, optimising resource use, and supporting renewable energy for long-term sustainability. Lastly, Outcome 8 ensures the protection of infrastructure, indirectly supporting efficient energy and resource use in the short, medium, and long term.

5.28 Overall, positive cumulative effects are expected for material assets from the actions set out in the Draft Environment Strategy.

Reasonable Alternatives

5.29 Part 14(2) of the 2005 Act requires that:

“The report shall identify, describe and evaluate the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing (a) the plan or programme; and (b) reasonable alternatives to the plan or programme, taking into account the objectives and the geographical scope of the Plan or Programme”.

5.30 Therefore, the SEA must appraise not only the outcomes and actions within the Draft Environment Strategy, but “reasonable alternatives” to these. As outlined in the approach to the assessment in Chapter 2, the reasonable alternative explores the additional impact of rapid behavioural change, where the Scottish Government has not yet identified the policies to cause that change.

5.31 The effects of implementing the reasonable alternative in relation to each Outcome are outlined below.

Outcome 1: Scotland’s biodiversity is restored and regenerated

5.32 Outcome 1 does not set out any future actions therefore the alternative of ‘doing more and sooner’ does not apply.

Outcome 2: We have ended Scotland’s contribution to climate change

5.33 Enhancing and accelerating Scotland’s future policy actions within the Environment Strategy would significantly advance climate action and therefore help to deliver positive effects in the short term across the majority of SEA objectives.

5.34 A faster rollout of the future policy actions of Outcome 2 including integrated public transport ticketing system and expanded EV charging infrastructure would reduce emissions and improve air quality (SEA objective 4), benefiting public health and wellbeing (SEA objective 2). Strengthening the Carbon Land Tax could incentivise peatland restoration, reforestation, and regenerative agriculture, enhancing biodiversity (SEA objective 1), soil conservation (SEA objective 5), and flood resilience (SEA objective 6).

5.35 Bringing forward the Climate Change Plan (2026-2040) consultation and carbon budgeting legislation would accelerate emissions reductions across sectors, minimising greenhouse gas emissions (Objective 3a) while ensuring Scotland’s built and natural environments adapt to climate change (SEA objective 3b). Scaling up livestock emissions reduction pilots could complement land-based mitigation efforts, further supporting Scotland’s climate resilience.

5.36 A more ambitious Circular Economy Strategy and Product Stewardship Plan would drive sustainable resource use (SEA objective 9), reducing waste and industrial pollution that threaten water quality (SEA objective 6) and Scotland’s landscapes, townscapes, and cultural heritage (SEA objectives 7 and 8). Prioritising sustainability in urban and rural development would enhance historic sites while fostering a low-carbon economy.

Outcome 3: We minimise pollution and waste in our environment

5.37 Enhancing Scotland’s Environment Strategy to “do more and sooner” in minimising pollution and waste would accelerate progress across multiple SEA objectives, helping to deliver positive effects in the short term. Strengthening future policy actions outlined in Outcome 3 including commitments to air quality through a long-term framework aligned with updated WHO guidelines would protect habitats and species (SEA objective 1) by reducing pollutants that degrade ecosystems. It would also improve public health (SEA objective 2) by lowering respiratory and cardiovascular risks while simultaneously cutting greenhouse gas emissions (SEA objective 3a) from transport and industry.

5.38 Accelerating the development of the fourth River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) through SEPA’s consultation would ensure better water quality and flood resilience (SEA objective 6) while also supporting climate change adaptation (SEA objective 3b) by safeguarding water resources against extreme weather. Cleaner water would further preserve soil health (SEA objective 5) by preventing contamination and erosion.

5.39 A more ambitious approach to pollution reduction would also enhance Scotland’s landscapes, townscapes, and seascapes (SEA objective 8) while preserving historic sites and built heritage (SEA objective 7) by limiting air and water pollution that accelerates degradation. Finally, embedding circular economy principles within these policy actions would drive Scotland towards greater resource and energy efficiency (SEA objective 9), ensuring long-term environmental and economic sustainability. By taking stronger action now, Scotland can secure a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient future.

Outcome 4: Scotland’s global environmental impact is sustainable

5.40 Enhancing and accelerating actions outlined in Outcome 4 to increase the sustainability of Scotland’s global environmental footprint would advance climate action while delivering broad environmental, social and economic benefits. Increasing and bringing forward opportunities to strengthen Scotland’s role as a good global citizen would likely benefit public health and wellbeing (SEA objective 2) as well as the other SEA objectives, dependent on the actions taken. Increasing and bringing forward opportunities for strengthening the evidence base on localising food are likely to increase positive effects for communities (SEA objective 2), reduce emissions from transport (SEA objective 3a), improve air quality (SEA objective 4), provide adaptation to climate change (SEA objective 3b) and likely minimise waste and encourage the prudent use of natural resources (SEA objective 9).

Outcome 5: Scotland’s society is transformed for the better by living sustainably, in harmony with nature

5.41 Enhancing and accelerating the future policy actions outlined in Outcome 5 would significantly advance climate action while delivering broad environmental, social, and economic benefits. Enhancing and accelerating green infrastructure and nature based solutions will increase the positive effects for emissions reduction (SEA objective 3a), climate change adaptation (SEA objective 3b), enhancing biodiversity (SEA objective 1), increase health particularly for communities with lower access to nature (SEA objective 2), improve air and soil quality (SEA objective 4 and 5), reduce flood risk (SEA objective 6) and improve character of the built and natural environment (SEA objective 7 and 8). Maximising human-nature connectedness and sustainable food availability will increase benefits to local communities to help to tackle inequalities, further strengthening connections between nature and health services. These will increase benefits for those most vulnerable to climate change and help reduce health inequalities (SEA objective 2).

Outcome 6: Scotland’s net zero, nature positive and circular economy thrives within the planet’s sustainable limits

5.42 Accelerating policy actions outlined Outcome 6 such as the decarbonisation of existing industrial technologies will significantly reduce Scotland's environmental footprint (SEA objective 3a) and improve air quality (SEA objective 4). Greening the financial system and exploring options like a carbon land tax will further support sustainable development, emissions reduction and improve air quality, benefitting SEA objectives 3a, 3b and 4. Improving climate and nature literacy in the public sector and raising sustainability standards for products and services will promote greener practices (SEA objective 1, 3a and 3b) and public health and wellbeing (SEA objective 2). Additionally enhancing and accelerating the network of social enterprises and equality in policy development will improve the resilience of communities and quality of life and well-being, bringing further benefits for SEA objective 2.

5.43 Strengthening the circular economy and sustainability standards for services and products will improve emissions reductions and benefit material assets (SEA objective 9). Strengthening understanding of coordination with regional environmental initiatives, voluntary environmental risk management and new EU reporting requirements will enhance sustainability across sectors and help meet global standards sooner.

5.44 Further enhancing bioenergy to minimise impacts on biodiversity will increase benefits to SEA objective 1.

Outcome 7: We build Scotland’s resilience to climate change and other global environmental risks

5.45 Enhancing the future policy actions of the Scottish Environment Strategy to “do more and sooner” would significantly strengthen Scotland’s resilience to climate change and global environmental risks and therefore deliver positive effects in the short term across multiple SEA objectives.

5.46 By accelerating the implementation of future policy action outlined in Outcome 7 such as the Adaptation Plan and Biodiversity Delivery Plan, Scotland would better protect, maintain, and enhance designated sites, habitats, and protected species (SEA objective 1). Earlier adoption of nature-based solutions such as peatland restoration and coastal habitat protection would mitigate biodiversity loss while helping Scotland adapt to climate change (SEA objective 3b). Similarly, by tackling overseas nature loss through its commitment to making Scotland’s global environmental impact sustainable, the government could support conservation beyond national borders.

5.47 A stronger and more immediate integration of climate- and nature-related risks into government horizon scanning and risk management would provide earlier identification of environmental threats, improving public health and wellbeing (SEA objective 2). Proactively addressing extreme weather events, air pollution, and water scarcity would reduce climate-related health risks and increase community resilience.

5.48 Supporting businesses in improving environmental risk management would help minimise greenhouse gas emissions (SEA objective 3a) and drive more efficient use of natural resources and energy (SEA objective 9). Encouraging industries to adopt low-carbon and climate-resilient strategies earlier would accelerate Scotland’s transition to net zero while boosting sustainable economic growth. Additionally, advancing sustainable land and marine management would conserve soil resources (SEA objective 5) and improve the quality and quantity of waterbodies and groundwater while reducing flood risks (SEA objective 6).

5.49 Accelerating the Adaptation Plan and Biodiversity Delivery Plan would protect historic settlements and cultural heritage (SEA objective 7) through early climate risk management, adaptive reuse of buildings, and sustainable infrastructure. Integrating climate- and nature-related risks into government planning would enable proactive conservation against flooding and erosion, while supporting businesses in environmental risk management would enhance resilience.

5.50 Expediting nature-based solutions and global environmental action would also conserve Scotland’s landscapes, townscapes, and seascapes (SEA objective 8) by restoring peatlands, forests, and coastal habitats, strengthening climate defences, and enhancing biodiversity.

Outcome 8: These transformations are achieved through a just transition and support climate and environmental justice

5.51 Although future actions identified in Outcome 8 are limited, ‘doing more and sooner’ could bring positive effects, particularly for population and health (SEA objective 2). Further strengthening effective approaches for supporting community action and engagement in the design of future policies is likely to increase the benefits to community resilience and quality of living environment.

5.52 In summary, not surprisingly, the reasonable alternative of ‘doing more and sooner’ would generally strengthen the positive effects identified for the eight Outcomes in the Draft Environment Strategy, and also result in many of those effects occurring sooner than the future actions as currently proposed in the Environment Strategy. However, the Scottish Government has advised that it is not currently feasible to deliver all of the actions ‘more and sooner’ due to challenges in implementation that would require significant societal change and mechanisms to support action that are not yet established.