Paircs Scotland

National Parks come in many different shapes sizes and forms of governance across Europe . As the representative body for Protected Areas, for some 50 years, we have seen, across 40 countries, we have seen just about every variation and their constant evolution. . One size does not fit all and Scotland is not bound by some antiquated model, which I suspect is the basis of many of the fears and and legitimate concerns expressed in other ideas. The current two national parks , notwithstanding each has their own unique challenges and deficiencies, have in fact been innovative and exemplary for many countries in Europe to follow. Scotland can continue to innovate with the creation. governance and management of more. . National Parks (and other designated areas) bring many more benefits than challenges and there is substantial body of experience to ensure governance and management solutions are already in practice.. they need only be adapted to the local situation. . Many of the challenges ascribed to Parks , pre exist in society, and in land management--- but parks often bring a coherent community involved platform through which to agree and to channel resources. .. as well as find a common vision and future for the areas based on protecting nature and people in the landscape. This is the more modern approach of many if not most Parks in Europe. . We further recommend to do so Scotland needs an overarching vision and governing body that would encompass all of Scotland's Protected Areas, Paircs Scotland, (call if what you will) bringing under its remit responsibility (not necessarily management which should be locally delegated) for all protected areas National Parks, Regional Parks, Country Parks, Biosphere Reserves, Geoparks, National Nature reserves, local nature reserves etc,,, should bring greater effectiveness, and efficiency, core central services management, national standards, more cohesive approach, national vision, and better means of achieving the aspirations..of nature conservation a sustainable development that collectively parks can deliver for society and locally for communities. a national Ranger Service , sub contracted to local authorities and other land managers would also be a positive delivery mechanism. In addition there would be greater alignment with Scottish targets towards climate change mitigation, biodiversity loss, and rural development. NatureScot does not seem to have or fulfill such a role currently. Most countries in Europe have similar agencies, with many good example with which to adapt and learn from. Scotland needs to develop its inward investment in nature and people by looking outwards to what successes already exist .

EUROPARC would support the creation of many Parks and other Protected Areas in Scotland both marine and terrestrial, ensuring that any criteria pay regard to not just the above , but to the creation of well-managed living landscapes.
Further the creation of Paircs Scotland, (call if what you will) bringing under its remit responsibility (not necessarily management which should be locally delegated) for all protected areas National Parks, Regional Parks, Country Parks, Biosphere Reserves, Geoparks, National Nature reserves, local nature reserves etc,,, should bring greater effectiveness, and efficiency, core central services management, national standards, more cohesive approach, national vision, and better means of achieving the aspirations..of nature conservation a sustainable development that collectively parks can deliver for society and locally for communities.Most countries in Europe have similar agencies, with many good examples with which to adapt and learn from. Scotland needs to develop its inward investment in nature and people by looking outwards to what successes already exist .