The Trust has welcomed the announcement that the Scottish Government has joined the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Our Chief Executive Jonny Hughes, who is also a member of IUCN’s Global Council said: “At a time when the world is facing the unprecedented challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, it’s fantastic to see the Scottish Government joining IUCN in order to collaborate with governments and NGOs around the world.

“This is a great opportunity for the Scottish Government to demonstrate leadership and to learn from the collective experience of the world’s largest environmental network.”

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham visited our Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve to mark the occasion.

She said: “Scotland is well known for our spectacular areas of natural beauty and the many important species that live in our countryside. As a Government we are committed to protecting and enhancing our habitats and our wildlife.

“That is why being confirmed as a member of the prestigious International Union for the Conservation of Nature is an important event. I am delighted to join this influential global grouping and look forward to working with other members to continue our work to protect our environment.”

IUCN is composed of both government and civil society organisations. It provides public, private and non-governmental organisations with the knowledge and tools that enable human progress, economic development and nature conservation to take place together.