This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Improved biodiversity important for tourism
27/02/2002
Scotland's tourism industry must harness the benefits
of biodiversity in the environment a conference was told
today.
Deputy Minister for Tourism Elaine Murray addressed
delegates at Scotland's first Biodiversity Forum - a
two-day event designed to promote environmental diversity.
Speaking during day two, the Deputy Minister encouraged the
tourism sector to consider the benefits a cross-cutting
approach can bring to environment and industry.
Dr Murray said:
"Scotland's environment is at the core of what makes our
country distinct and special. While overseas visitors are
drawn to Scotland to see our castles and our cities, these
images are intertwined with our scenery, our lochs, rivers,
mountains and moorlands.
"There is so much that is uniquely Scottish. So much
experience that can be provided to tourists - the golden
eagle on the mountain heights, the heather moorlands,
dolphins at play in the Moray Firth, and the skeins of wild
geese in our winter skies.
"Tourism presents Scotland with a real opportunity for
growth and employment. We must take advantage of those
areas where we have a competitive edge. Biodiversity is one
of these. We have a great product, but we need to preserve,
promote and market it better.
"We have begun to do this. We are well on our way to
establishing our first National Park at Loch Lomond and the
Trossachs. We are continuing work necessary to add to this
with the Cairngorms National Park in early 2003.
"These parks are about looking after our natural
heritage. They are also about sharing it, helping people to
enjoy the beauty of our countryside and creating thriving
rural economies.
"In each of these areas we can make stronger connections
between the needs of the customer and the care of the
natural reserve. Events such as this provide an opportunity
to consider where we can do better. To exchange ideas and
to work together towards a stronger industry and improved
biodiversity."
The Scottish Biodiversity Group was formed in 1996 to
take forward implementation of the UK Biodiversity Action
Plan. This work will be enhanced through an annual Forum.
The Forum will develop a cross-cutting approach to
environmental biodiversity.
The Scottish Biodiversity Forum was opened yesterday by
Allan Wilson, Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural
Development. The two-day event has been attended by leading
environmental and tourism organisations including: the
RSPB. Forestry Commission, SNH, VisitScotland, wildlife
tourism outlets and local authorities.