Experts enlisted to advise ministers on how to save the planet

Scientists, climate change specialists and nature professionals will join international experts advising the Scottish Government on environmental issues.

Former UK chief scientific officer Sir Ian Boyd will co-chair the group alongside Nicola Sturgeon, with other members including yachtswoman Dame Ellen Macarthur.

The council will meet over the coming weeks for talks before presenting a report at the Cop26 climate conference in November.

Boyd served as chief scientific adviser at the Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs from September 2012 to August 2019. He is currently professor in biology at St Andrews University.

Filmmaker and presenter Gordon Buchanan MBE will also be on the group. In 2005, Mcarthur smashed the record for the fastest singlehanded circumnavigation of the world. Other members of the council include academics and scientists.

Sturgeon said the climate crisis is “code red for humanity” and Cop26 is a “unique opportunity to show leadership on the international stage”.

She added: “That’s why we committed to appoint, within the first 100 days of this government, environmental experts from around the world, to advise on international best practice to help us tackle this unprecedented challenge.

“The group will balance experience, a strong international perspective, the youth voice, and topical awareness, at the highest, global level.

“As well as acting as a sounding board for our near-term policies, the group will advise on the long-term policy trajectory for Scotland – taking into account the opportunities that becoming a net-zero society presents: growing our economy, improving our health and wellbeing and protecting Scotland’s iconic natural environment.”

WWF Scotland welcomed the new council. Lang Banks, director of the organisation, said: “As a nation, Scotland is well-positioned to be able to play a leading role in tackling the twin climate and nature emergencies.

“In most cases we already know what needs to be done to halt climate change and restore nature.

“However, what we need to see is swift and focused action, with the Scottish Government leading the way.

“We hope that this new group can help support Scottish ministers to more rapidly deliver a future where people and nature thrive.”