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.
Coastal Comeback: Overcoming Policy Challenges to Marine Restoration at Scale
Restoration policy is limiting marine restoration. This report, shows how these constraints affect delivery, and presents sector wide evidence that the current system does not operate proportionately for restoration projects. It then outlines a structured and legally grounded programme of reforms aimed at supporting ecological recovery, improving consistency and efficiency, and enabling restoration.
03 July 2026