1st April 2026
Embracing the ethos of ‘dùthchas’: Scotland’s first Environment Strategy is published
“The Strategy will guide us as we take the joined-up action needed to tackle the nature, climate and pollution crises. It focuses on crucial opportunities to harness the powerful synergies between the health of our environment, the wellbeing of Scotland’s people and the success of our economy.”
In September 2025, we worked in partnership with EAUC Scotland to submit a response to the draft Environment Strategy proposed by the Scottish Government.
The resulting Strategy has now been published, and we welcome its commitment to an integrated approach that will ‘tackle the nature, climate, and pollution crises together’ in a way that brings together action on issues relating to people and prosperity, as well as planet:
Of particular note is the call for a rethink in the way in which we relate to the natural world around us:
“Guiding this journey must be a renewed understanding that we are part of nature, not separate from it. The relationship with our natural world is deep-rooted in Scotland’s national heritage. The ancient Gaelic concept of ‘dùthchas’ captures the tightly-woven connection between people, nature and the feeling of belonging to a place. It has been described as the unity between land, people, culture, nature, and all living creatures; chiming with our modern understanding of ecological balance. It also reflects a sense of stewardship for the land.”
We also warmly welcome the focus on people-led action; as well as the direct reference to Learning for Sustainability and the role it has to play in realising the ambitions of this Strategy.
“Looking ahead, it is vital that Scotland’s communities are empowered to lead our journey towards a sustainable future; guided by care for their local place. That is why community-led action is a central focus of this Strategy.
It will help to ensure people and communities can guide our approach, drive local action and enjoy the rewards that come from it. It also sets out important steps for reconnecting with nature by ensuring we can experience the many benefits it offers for our daily lives – from the mental and physical health benefits from exercise and recreation in nature, to improvements in children’s wellbeing and educational attainment.”