Knapdale in Argyll, where priority Atlantic rainforest habitats coexist with sustainable commercial timber forests, has been awarded landmark Nature30 status in recognition of its positive and long-term outcomes for biodiversity.

The site is the first to be granted this status on public land in Scotland and highlights how conservation and commercial forestry can be mutually beneficial.

The new status is a key part of Scotland's commitment to 30 by 30 - a national target to ensure 30% of the country's land and sea is protected for nature by 2030. A Nature30 site must not be an existing protected area, must be managed for positive biodiversity outcomes, and must be subject to a long-term assurance of this management.

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According to Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS), land management plans for the site reflect an equal consideration of safeguarding a diverse range of ecosystems while also producing good quality timber. Callum Strong, Regional Environment Advisor at FLS, said the site is a key example of how Nature30 sites will join up existing protected areas, with beaver populations already beginning to expand out of nearby designated areas.

NatureScot's Head of Protected Areas, Innovation and Data, Ben Ross, added that Knapdale's recognition highlights the vital role FLS plays in nature recovery and the wider role the public estate has in achieving the 30 by 30 target. He said it is great to see a public body "leading the way" with this recognition.