« Previous | Contents | Next »
Listen
FOREWORD
The seas around Scotland have defined and shaped our nation, they have sustained our communities and people. Our relationship with the sea has helped forge our nation's identity, our culture and our economy. Generations of Scots have played a leading role in maritime history, trade and communications. Scotland's seas are unique and are valued for the diversity of wildlife they harbour, the resources and employment they provide us with, and the leisure opportunities they offer us.
In 21st century Scotland, the sea remains a hugely important natural resource upon which many jobs and industries depend, and is essential to sustain communities in remoter parts of the country. Scotland's seas are deeper, cleaner and less intensively used than the seas around the rest of the UK. With around a fifth of the Scottish population living within 1 km of the sea and the vast majority living within 10 km, it is no wonder that Scots feel an enormous responsibility towards our marine environment.
We need a new relationship with the seas to safeguard this unique and precious natural resource for future generations. With increasing and competing demands being made on our seas, I believe now is the time to modernise and streamline the management
of our marine environment to deliver sustainable economic growth. Better, more sustainable management and protection of our ecosystem is essential if we are to ensure the seas continue to deliver benefits for future generations of Scots.
I am determined that we take the steps required to deliver the improved stewardship this world class asset deserves.
Richard Lochhead MSP
Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment
« Previous | Contents | Next »