Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser, has backed the re-launch of the Species Champion initiative having previously served as champion for Juniper and the Natterer’s bat.
There are an estimated 93,000 different species in Scotland and the Species Champion Initiative is aimed at raising the conservation profile of some of the country’s most endangered wildlife.
The Scottish Environment LINK initiative was first launched in 2013, and by 2016 a parliamentary majority (76 MSPs) championed 94 Scottish species.
A recent State of Nature Report revealed that Scotland’s fish, mammals, fungi, birds, invertebrates, trees, plants, amphibians and reptiles are under threat as never before. Intensive agriculture, damaging development, over-exploitation of natural resources, invasive species and climate change all put pressure on Scotland’s unique and globally important ecosystems.
Murdo will continue as species champion for Juniper and will work with Plantlife over the coming parliamentary term.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“The species champion initiative is a great way of increasing the public profile of some of Scotland’s most endangered species.
“Scotland’s natural environment is incredibly special and protecting our biodiversity is important, not just for wildlife, but also for our rural economy.
“In the previous session of parliament I visited a juniper conservation zone alongside Plantlife and witnessed first-hand what steps were being taken to ensure its survival. It is therefore very important that MSP’s are able to get involved and understand the work of conservation charities.
“I would encourage as many MSP’s as possible to sign up to the programme and give their support to Scotland’s wildlife.”