Scotland’s Geodiversity Charter, which safeguards Scotland’s Geodiversity that is regarded as an essential element for sustainable growth in the economy and environment, has been launched by the Environment and Climate Change Minister, Stewart Stevenson MSP in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh – the birthplace of geological science .(this photograph shows Salisbury Crags with Edinburgh Castle in the background)
The Charter, a Scottish Geodiversity Forum’s work, is supported by Scottish Natural Heritage, GeoConservationUK, Scottish Government and the British Geological Survey (BGS). The Charter has been signed by more than 25 organizations, which are ready to support the vision and objectives of the Charter. The Charter briefs the significance of geodiversity in Scotland and the need for immediate action, and provides the shared thought of geodiversity and offers guidance on the ways to achieve the objective, to various sectors.
Scotland’s Chief Geologist, Diarmad Campbell stated that the Charter’s publication has been welcomed by BGS which is willing to support the Charter’s vision. The unique geodiversity of Scotland has accelerated the development of geological sciences for over 200 years. Scotland’s geodiversity has also contributed for modern Scotland development by providing essential resources like raw materials and energy.
Diarmad added that Scotland’s geodiversity will soon meet the needs of renewable energy like geothermal and ground heat, strategic minerals and Carbon Storage and Capture potential. This can be achieved by using new technologies and assistance provided by BGS, which has played a major role in Charter publication.
BGS Responsive Surveys Scotland lead and a member of the charter drafting team, Hugh Barron said that the Charter is a perfect example of partnership between public and voluntary sectors. The team encourages all the sectors like public bodies, commercial businesses, managers, academics, teachers, individuals, land owners, and voluntary organizations to accomplish the shared vision of conserving Scotland’s geodiversity and continually providing essential benefits to Scotland.
Angus Miller, Scottish Geodiversity Forum chair said that this is a very special day in Scotland’s history, with a large number of big and small organizations coming together to celebrate the country’s landscapes and rocks and show how their contribution ro economy, heritage and history of Scotland.