The Scottish Government

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

+

This priority is considered to have a positive impact on biodiversity by encouraging traditional methods of farming (crofting) and encouraging the cultivation practices for conservation enhancement. In addition support in LFAs will help biodiversity (see section 6.4).

+

This priority is considered to assisting in species and habitat conservation by encouraging traditional methods of farming (crofting) and encouraging the cultivation practices for conservation enhancement.

+

This priority is considered to have a positive impact on habitat connectivity by encouraging traditional methods of farming (crofting) and encouraging the cultivation practices for conservation enhancement.

+

This priority is considered to have a potentially positive impact reducing invasive species by encouraging traditional methods of farming (crofting) and encouraging the cultivation practices for conservation enhancement

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

++

This priority contains a series of actions specifically designed to halt the loss of biodiversity and continue to reverse previous loss and would therefore significantly contribute to the meeting of this objective.

++

This priority contains a series of actions specifically designed to protect and enhance protected habitats, species and areas and would therefore significantly contribute to the meeting of this objective

++

This priority contains a series of actions which would assist in reducing habitat fragmentation and enhancing habitat connectivity and would therefore significantly contribute to the meeting of this objective.

++

This priority contains a series of actions which could assist, indirectly, in reducing the spread of invasive species and an action relating specifically to invasive species and would therefore significantly contribute to the meeting of this objective.

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other landuses.

++

This priority will directly enhance woodlands for biodiversity and indirectly enhance biodiversity through the integration of forestry with other land management issues..

++

This priority ill directly protect habitat and species through the management of woodlands and will indirectly help species and habitats through the integration of land uses.

++

Enhancing forestry management and integration of land uses for biodiversity purposes would help enhance habitat connectivity.

+

enhancing land management could assist indirectly in reducing the spread of invasive species if this issue is one of the areas considered.

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

++

The achievement of good ecological status ( GES) in water bodies would significantly enhance biodiversity with the waterbody habitats and also in other adjacent habitats.

This could help enhance wetland/riparian HAPs and therefore SAPS

++

The achievement of GES in water bodies would significantly enhance and protect the aquatic and adjacent habitats and areas therefore enhancing the protection of species dependant on these areas Also enhancement of wetland/riparian HAPs

+

This priority provides an indirect opportunity to reduce habitat fragmentation and enhance habitat connectivity in particular the enhancement of the riparian corridor.

This can increase riparian habitat connectivity

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as this focuses on the reduction of water pollution

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

++

This priority contains an action specifically designed to address the impacts of climate change on biodiversity and would therefore contribute to the meeting of this objective.

++

This priority contains an action designed to address the impacts of climate change on biodiversity which would assist in the protection and enhancement of protected habitats, species and areas and would contribute to the meeting of this objective.

++

This priority contains actions designed to address the impacts of climate change on biodiversity. In particular the increased planting of woodland could assist in the enhancement of woodland habitat connectivity and would contribute to the meeting of this objective

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as this focuses on tackling climate change.

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

+

This priority contains an action which indirectly contributes to the meeting of this objective as a result of the safeguarding and enhancement of ancient woodlands which offer particular biodiversity benefits.

+

This priority contains an action which indirectly contributes to this objective, as a result of the safeguarding and enhancement of ancient woodlands which offer particular protected habitat and/or species benefits.

+

This priority contains an action which indirectly contributes to the meeting of this objective as a result of the safeguarding and enhancement of ancient woodlands which offer particular habitat connectivity benefits.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to reduce the spread of invasive species as this focuses on landscape and historic environment issues.

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

+

This priority contains an action which indirectly contributes to the meeting of this objective as a result of promoting sustainable farming systems which could enhance water quality.

+

This priority contains an action which indirectly contributes to the meeting of this objective as a result of promoting sustainable farming systems which could reduce diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry.

+

This priority contains an action which indirectly contributes to the meeting of this objective as a result of promoting sustainable farming systems which could to protect water resources.

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

+

This priority contains actions which could indirectly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result of maintaining favourable conditions in designated sites and environmentally friendly farming which could result in the enhancement of water quality.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to reduce diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry a result of the focus on environmentally friendly land use practice and the conversion of land to organic farming all of which could reduce the use of fertilisers, stabilise soil and reduce diffuse pollution from rural activities..

+

This priority provides an opportunity to protect water resources as result of the focus on environmentally friendly land use practice and the conversion of land to organic farming all of which could reduce the use of fertilisers and stabilise soil. This could result in reduced pollution from rural activities and less abstraction for irrigation purposes.

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other landuses.

+

This priority contains actions which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result of compliance with the UK Forestry Standard which could result in the enhancement of water quality.

++

This priority contains actions which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result of compliance with the UK Forestry Standard which could reduce diffuse pollution from forestry.

+

This priority contains actions which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result of compliance with the UK Forestry Standard which could protect water resources.

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

++

This priority contains an action specifically designed to improve water quality and would therefore contribute to the meeting of this objective

++

This priority contains an action specifically designed to reduce diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry and therefore contribute to the meeting of this objective

++

This priority is specifically designed effectively manage water resources and therefore contribute to the meeting of this objective

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

+

This priority does not provide an opportunity to directly improve water quality as this focuses on tackling climate change. However the reducing in greenhouse gases emissions can result in a reduction in acidification which can improve water quality.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to reduce diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry as it contains an action relating to targeting fertiliser actions.

+

This priority does not provide a direct opportunity to protect water resources as this focuses on tackling climate change. However, addressing climate change could have indirect benefits on water resources.

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to improve water quality as this focuses on safeguarding and enhancing the landscape and historic environment.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to reduce diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry as this focuses on safeguarding and enhancing the landscape and historic environment

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to protect water resources as this focuses on safeguarding and enhancing the landscape and historic environment

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

++

This priority contains an action specifically designed to promote the sustainable management of soils which would contribute to the meeting of this objective.

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

++

This priority contains an action which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result of promoting environmentally friendly farming including organic farming which could promote the sustainable management of soils.

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other land uses.

++

This priority contains actions which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result of compliance with the UK Forestry Standard which could promote the sustainable management of soils.

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

++

This priority provides an opportunity to promote the sustainable management of soil as a result of its focus on reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture as one way in which diffuse pollution can be reduced is to sustainably manage soil resources.

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

++

This priority contains an action which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective, to conserve soil organic matter thereby promoting the sustainable management of soils.

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

+

Safeguarding historic features is an important soil function as acidic soil conditions can result in damage to buried structures. Consequently, action to enhance soil quality will enhance the protection of heritage assets and this priority is considered to have a positive impact on soil quality.

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to indirectly minimise the impact of rural activities on air quality as a result of the opportunity to manage livestock waste therefore reducing ammonia emissions.

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to minimise the impacts of rural activities on air quality as a result of the action to encourage organic farming which cold result in reduced ammonia emissions from farms as a result of the reuse of farm wastes.

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other landuses.

+

This priority contains an action which could indirectly contribute to the meeting of this objective as the UK Forestry Standard can encourage the effective use of fertilisers which could reduce emissions of ammonia..

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

+

This priority could result in the reduction of does not provide an opportunity to minimise the impacts of rural activities on air quality as this focuses on water quality issues.

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

++

This priority contains actions specifically designed to tackle air quality such as promoting the efficient use of fertilisers thereby reducing the volumes of ammonia released to air

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

+

This priority provides an indirect opportunity to improve air quality as improved air quality would result in reduced acid rain and this would reduce erosion of historic structures.

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

+

This priority contains actions which could indirectly contribute to meeting this objective as a result of the continued use of land for traditional farming practices and the conservations of soil.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as a result of improved management of farm wastes through high standards of animal welfare and the development of organic farming.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to indirectly increase the capacity of woodland and peatland for carbon sequestration as traditional landscapes can include woodland and peatland.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to increase the use of renewable energy as this focuses on landscape issues.

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

+

This priority contains actions which could indirectly contribute to meeting this objective as a result of the implementation of high value and organic farming and forestry and the addressing of climate change.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as a result of improved management of farm wastes through high standards of animal welfare and the development of organic farming.

+

This priority contains an action which indirectly contributes to the meeting of this objective as a result of promoting forestry and the protection of habitats including woodland and peatland therefore increasing carbon sequestration.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to indirectly increase the use of renewable energy this would result in reduced emissions of greenhouse gases from fossil fuel combustion. However, renewables can have other impacts on biodiversity which would need to be considered (see section 5.2.4 of main report)

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other landuses.

+

This priority contains actions which could indirectly contribute to meeting this objective as woodlands, in particular wet and riparian woodlands can contribute to sustainable flood management.

+

This priority provides an indirect opportunity to reduce GHGs which would result in reduced acid rain and this would reduce erosion of historic structures

+

This priority contains an action which directly contributes to the meeting of this objective as a result of promoting sustainable forest management which would contribute to increasing the capacity of woodland for carbon sequestration.

+

This priority contains an action which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as it supports multi-functional roles for forestry which could increase the amount of forests planted for renewable energy fuels.

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

++

This priority contains an action specifically designed to promote sustainable flood management and therefore contribute to the meeting of this objective

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to minimise the impacts of rural activities on climate change as this focuses on water quality issues.

+

This priority does not provide an opportunity to directly increase the capacity of woodland and peatland for carbon sequestration although the conservation and enhancement of woodland and peatland could assist in sustainable flood management.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to increase the use of renewable energy as this focuses on water quality issues.

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

+

This priority could indirectly result in the promotion of sustainable flood management as addressing climate change and its impacts on flood risk could result less severe flood events which could be addressed by softer and perhaps more sustainable flood management solutions being required.

++

This priority contains an action specifically designed to tackle climate change and therefore contribute to the meeting of this objective

++

This priority contains an action specifically designed to provide opportunities to increase the capacity of woodland and peatland for carbon sequestration and therefore contribute to the meeting of this objective

+

While this priority does not have an action to increase the use of renewable energy, it focuses on tackling climate change. The increased use of renewable energy could significantly assist in this target.

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

0

This priority does not provide an promote sustainable flood mnagement as this focuses on landscape and historic environment issues

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to minimise the impacts of rural activities on climate change as this focuses on landscape and historic environment issues.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to increase the capacity of woodland and peatland for carbon sequestration as this focuses on landscape and historic environment issues.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to increase the use of renewable energy as this focuses on landscape and historic environment issues.

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

+

This priority contains actions specifically designed to maximise the contribution of the agriculture and forestry sectors to the viability of Rural Scotland in less favoured areas and therefore this priority contributes to the meeting of this objective.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to improve quality of life through access and recreations this focuses on landscape issues.

++

Ensuring continued crofting and traditional faring will retain jobs in less favoured areas enhancing the quality of life for people in these areas.

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

+

This priority contains actions specifically designed to maximise the contribution of the agriculture and forestry sectors to the viability of Rural Scotland by enhancing the high nature value of rural activities which could promote for example ecotourism..

+

This priority contains actions which could indirectly promote access and recreation. By enhancing the high nature value of rural activities, ecotourism could be promoted encouraging people to access rural Scotland.

+

This priority contains actions which could indirectly promote health living and improving quality of live as by enhancing the high nature value of rural activities, ecotourism could be promoted encouraging people to access rural Scotland. This could in turn result in the creation of more jobs in rural Scotland.

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other landuses.

++

This priority contains actions with could directly assist in maximising the contribution of the agriculture and forestry sectors to the viability of Rural Scotland and therefore this priority contributes to the meeting of this objective

+

Supporting the multifunctional role of forestry in Scotland could lead to increased recreation through increased mountain biking trail, footpaths etc within the woodland.

+

Supporting the multifunctional role of forestry in Scotland could lead to increased recreation through increased mountain biking trail, footpaths etc within the woodland. This could result in increased jobs in these rural areas.

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

+

This could have indirect affects as sustainable flood management techniques could protect flooding in rural Scotland thereby increasing its viability. Increased water quality will enhance biodiversity offering increased opportunities for ecotourism.

+

This could have indirect affects as increased water quality will enhance biodiversity offering increased opportunities for ecotourism therefore increasing access and recreation potential in rural Scotland.

+

This could have indirect affects as increased water quality will enhance biodiversity offering increased opportunities for ecotourism which could result in increased jobs in rural areas.

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to maximise the contribution of the agriculture and forestry sectors to the viability of Rural Scotland as this focuses on tackling climate change.

0

This priority does not provide direct or indirect opportunities to increase access or recreation as it focuses on measures to increase climate change.

+

This priority provides direct or indirect benefits to healthy living and improved quality of life as a result of the measures to tackle climate change which will increase air quality in both rural and urban areas of Scotland and beyond.

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

+

This priority contains actions with could indirectly assist in maximising the contribution of the agriculture and forestry sectors to the viability of Rural Scotland and therefore this priority contributes to the meeting of this objective.

+

This priority contains actions which would increase access to rural Scotland as a result of increased ecotourism potential of both the natural and the cultural heritage of Scotland.

+

Enhanced natural and cultural heritage in rural Scotland and its increased opportunities for ecotourism could result in increased jobs in rural areas.

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

++

This priority contains actions specifically designed to maintain traditional agricultural landscapes thereby contributing significantly to the meeting of this objective.

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming1, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

+

This priority provides an indirect opportunity to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscapes as the protection and enhancement of Scotland's wildlife and biodiversity will result in the protection and enhancement of various habitats which are traditionally Scottish.

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other landuses.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscapes if the focus on sustainable forest management considers the need to plant traditional native species in traditional ways.

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscapes as this focuses on improving water quality.

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to safeguard and enhance Scotland's landscapes as woodland and peatland are traditionally part of Scotland's landscape and will have positive impacts if developed in the right locations.

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

++

This priority contains actions specifically designed to safeguard and enhance landscapes and therefore this priority contributes significantly to the meeting of this objective.

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

+

This priority contains actions which indirectly recognise, value and safeguard the distinct cultural and heritage identity of local areas, such as crofting, thereby contributing significantly to the meeting of this objective.

+

This priority contains actions which indirectly strengthen Scotland's cultural identity, through for example the promotion of croftng, thereby contributing significantly to the meeting of this objective.

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to recognise, value and safeguard the distinct cultural and heritage identity of local areas as this focuses on protecting and enhancing wildlife and biodiversity.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity as this focuses on protecting and enhancing wildlife and biodiversity.

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other landuses.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to recognise, value and safeguard the distinct cultural and heritage identity of local areas as this focuses on sustainable forest management.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity as this focuses on sustainable forest management.

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to indirectly recognise, value and safeguard the distinct cultural and heritage identity of local areas as this focuses on improving water quality.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity as this focuses on improving water quality.

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to indirectly recognise, value and safeguard the distinct cultural and heritage identity of local areas as this focuses on sustainable forest management.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to strengthen Scotland's cultural identity as this focuses on sustainable forest management.

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

++

This priority contains actions specifically designed to safeguard and enhance the historic environment and therefore this priority contributes significantly to the meeting of this objective

++

This priority contains actions which could directly strengthen Scotland's cultural identity and therefore this priority contributes to the meeting of this objective

a. Maintain traditional agricultural landscapes in less favoured areas by

• ensuring continued use of land for agriculture and crofting;
• monitoring and promoting sustainable farming systems; and,
• encouraging livestock and cultivation practices that conserve soils as landscape and conservation assets, and that encourage high standards in animal health and welfare.

+

This priority provides an indirect opportunity to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuel in Rural Scotland through the encouragement of practises that conserve soils which could result in a lesser demand for fertilisers.

+

This priority provides an indirect opportunity to minimise the volumes of waste generated through the promotion of sustainable farming practises which should encourage waste minimisation

b. Protect and enhance wildlife/biodiversity by

• supporting and developing high nature value farming, crofting and forestry, and other environmentally friendly land-use practices such as organic farming;
• achieving and maintaining favourable condition of designated sites ( SSSIs, Natura, Ramsar) and undertaking targeted actions elsewhere (particularly Biodiversity Action Plan priorities);
• improving habitat networks among designated sites and in the wider countryside; and,
• addressing threats to biodiversity from climate change and invasive non-native species.

+

This priority provides an opportunity to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuel in Rural Scotland through the encouragement of organic farming which would result in a lesser demand for fertilisers.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to minimise the volumes of waste generated and disposed of in Rural Scotland as this focuses on protection and enhancement of wildlife and biodiversity.

c. Promote sustainable forest management by

• enhancing management of woodlands for biodiversity, landscape and other environmental objectives in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard; and,
• supporting the multifunctional role of forestry through its integration with other landuses.

+

This priority contains actions which could indirectly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result of compliance with the UK Forestry Standard which encourages the maximisation of the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuel in Rural Scotland.

+

This priority contains actions which could indirectly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result of compliance with the UK Forestry Standard which encourages the minimisation of the volumes of waste generated and disposed of in Rural Scotland.

d. Reduce water pollution, support good quality water and achieve effective management of water resources in and around Scotland by

• reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry, and achieving and maintaining water quality in accordance with the Water Framework Directive, Bathing Waters Directive and Nitrates Directive; and,
• using natural systems and appropriate land management practices (soft engineering techniques) as means of achieving sustainable flood management.

+

This priority contains an action which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result the aim of reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry which can be achieved by the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuel in Rural Scotland.

+

This priority contains an action which could indirectly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result the aim of reducing diffuse pollution from agriculture and forestry which can be influenced by the minimisation pf the volumes of waste generated in Rural Scotland.

e. Tackling climate change and meeting relevant international and UK commitments on air quality by

• reducing gaseous emissions from the management and use of rural land in ways which have an impact on climate change and air quality;
• enhancing the significant role played by carbon sinks in Scotland (e.g. peat bogs and woodland planting);
• conserving soil organic matter and encouraging targeted fertiliser applications to reduce emissions to air in addition to climate change mitigation; and,
• adapting to the impacts of climate change, considering the effects on flood risk and biodiversity in particular.

++

This priority contains actions which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result the aim of tackling climate change which can be achieved by the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuel in Rural Scotland.

++

This priority contains actions which could directly contribute to the meeting of this objective as a result the aim of tackling climate change which can be achieved by the minimisation of the volumes of waste generated in Rural Scotland.

f. Safeguard and enhance landscapes and the historic environment by

• conserving and enhancing the distinct identity, the diverse character and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes; and,
• safeguarding and enhancing the distinct cultural and historic identity of each area, as represented by its significant sites, ancient woodlands, monuments and rural buildings ("heritage assets").

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to maximise the effective use of resources including chemicals and fuel in Rural Scotland as this focuses on the safeguarding and enhancement of landscapes and the historic environment.

0

This priority does not provide an opportunity to minimise the volumes of waste generated and disposed of in Rural Scotland as this focuses the safeguarding and enhancement of landscapes and the historic environment.