The Pollinator Strategy has been launched to make Scotland a more pollinator friendly place by protecting indigenous bee and butterfly populations. Its aim to:

“address the causes of decline in populations, diversity and range of our pollinator species, and to help them thrive into the future.”

Tiger hoverfly (Helophilus pendulus)Silversands Aberdour 11 09 15 SBurgess

Environment Secretary in the Scottish Government Roseanna Cunningham said:

“Scotland’s biodiversity is one of our key assets, and the contribution the humble bumble bee and other pollinators make to this wonderful environment should not be underestimated. That is why we are committed to making Scotland a more pollinator friendly place.

“Pressures like land use change, pesticides, pollution, disease and climate change are threatening these life-giving insects, so we must act now to protect the pollinators and in turn safeguard our environment, our food and in turn our health.”

The Pollinator Strategy is being led by Scottish Natural Heritage in collaboration with the Scottish Government and a host of other organisations including: the Bee Farmers Association, Buglife, Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Scottish Environment LINK, National Farmers Union Scotland and Scottish Lands & Estates. .

The objectives of the strategy are:

1. To make Scotland more pollinator-friendly, halting and reversing the decline in native pollinator populations.
2. To improve our understanding of pollinators and their pollination service.
3. To manage the commercial use of pollinators to benefit native pollinators.
4. To raise awareness and encourage action across sectors.
5. To monitor and evaluate whether pollinators are thriving

Common carder bee Bombus pascuorum Muirton Perth 25 06 2013 SBurgess

 SNH chairman Mike Cantlay said:

“Growing evidence shows our native bees and insects that carry out pollination are facing tough times. Pollination is crucial for our environment – and, therefore, our own health, wealth and wellbeing. “

“This strategy, a key part of the Scottish Biodiversity 2020 route map, sets out what needs to be done to ensure these bees and insects survive and thrive for generations to come, contributing to healthy ecosystems and landscapes in our country. We look forward to continuing this important work with our partners to strengthen the resilience of our native pollinator species.”

Reporter: Fiona Grahame