Building climate resilience - Applications open for Nature30 sites

21st August 2025

People who manage areas of Scotland's land and freshwater can apply for a new award that shows they’re protecting nature and helping to tackle climate change.

Areas of advanced biodiversity can now be recognised as a Nature30 site which means they are helping meet Scotland’s commitment to 30 by 30 - ensuring that 30% of our land and sea is protected for nature by 2030.

Nature30 sites are areas of land that are:

not an existing protected area
managed to have positive outcomes for biodiversity
subject to a long-term (typically at least 25 years) assurance that they will continue to be managed to deliver for biodiversity.

Becoming a Nature30 site will give recognition to more places doing excellent conservation work and should also provide a route to attracting both private and public financial incentives.

Applications are open to landowners, communities, companies and public bodies.

Visiting Findhorn Community sand dune, a Nature30 pilot site, Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action Gillian Martin said, "Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth, and is essential for sustaining the ecosystems that provide us with food, fuel, health, wealth, and other vital services.

“The loss of species and degradation of our natural environment is an existential threat to humanity. We have a vision for a future where Scotland’s natural environment is restored and supports thriving communities and wildlife alike.

“These Nature30 sites will play an integral role in achieving our aim of restoring 30% of Scotland for nature by 2030 and will significantly improve the resilience of Scottish biodiversity as a whole. I encourage all eligible individuals and groups to apply."

Nick Halfhide, Interim Chief Executive of NatureScot said:

“With the urgent climate and nature crises we face today, we must work together to find the best ways to connect and improve nature across the country. The first Nature 30 sites show the commitment and vision of local people, with the Findhorn Hinterland Trust site a superb example.

“We hope the trust’s work to protect rare coastal habitat and ensure this special place is healthy and resilient for the future will inspire others.”