The Scottish Government has said that sustainable economic growth that is sensitive to the environment, will be at the heart of draft management plans which will form the country's future National Marine Plan.

Yesterday (25 July), a joint marine consultation was launched to help decide how Scotland's seas are managed in the future.

The joint consultation includes:

• Scotland's first National Marine Plan which will provide a single framework to manage all activity in Scottish waters. This will provide clarity to developers and decision makers on Scotland’s priorities for sustainable use of the sea
• Proposals for a network of new Nature Conservation Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) which if designated would increase protection for Scotland's iconic marine species and habitats
• Draft sectorial marine plans which will guide development of a sustainable and successful offshore renewable energy industry in Scotland.

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Throughout the 16-week consultation process, Marine Scotland - along with SNH and Joint Nature Conversation Committee (JNCC) - will be hosting a series of events and workshops throughout the country.

Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "Scotland's seas are fundamental to our way of life. They are a vast and vital natural resource which provide energy, food and recreation. We must protect and enhance our marine environment so that it remains a prized asset for future generations. This government has worked hard to introduce marine planning and the National Marine Plan will help achieve the balance needed for sustainable growth.

"Scotland's people should manage Scotland's resources. The National Marine Plan which sets out policies and priorities for both the marine environment and economic development out to 200 nautical miles is an essential element of that management.

"I am keen that everyone takes this opportunity to make an input into the National Marine plan. The plan is a key element of the government's strategy to deliver sustainable economic growth that benefits all of Scotland and it is vital that both stakeholders and local people take this opportunity to lets us know what they think."

Calum Duncan, Convenor of Scottish Environment LINK's marine taskforce added: "Our seas are no longer out of sight, out of mind. These proposals represent a historic opportunity for us to manage the marine environment in a new way that benefits both our amazing sealife and our communities that rely upon it. I would urge anybody who lives near to, works in, visits or enjoys our seas to show their support for MPAs.

"I would also urge all those involved closely in this process to remain ambitious in the months ahead to ensure we collectively keep Scotland on track toward becoming a world-leading example of good marine stewardship."

(JP/MH)