In February 2023, NatureScot advised Scottish Ministers on the potential benefits of creating coastal and marine National Parks. These parks would protect landscapes and seascapes, support socio-economic recovery, boost tourism, and promote ocean restoration. They would also contribute to Scotland’s transition to net zero and a nature-positive future. Blue Marine supports this initiative and aims to collaborate with coastal communities to make it a reality. While the economic impact of Scotland’s National Parks has not been fully assessed, examples like Loch Lomond and Trossachs, generating £866 million annually, highlight the potential benefits. The report suggests prioritizing at least one coastal and marine National Park as a model for Scotland’s ecosystem and landscapes.
Scotland’s Seas: An Environmental and Economic Opportunity
Scotland’s seas are six times larger than our land area and among the most ecologically important in the world. They support internationally important marine wildlife, globally significant ecosystems and the coastal economies that depend upon them.
16 September 2026
