The Changing Nature of Scotland

This book should be on the shelves of every nature conservationist in Scotland. It reviews what has been happening to nature and the environment, where we are now and what is being done to bring about change.

The publication derives from a conference held in September 2009. Conference proceedings often result in disjointed and incomplete coverage of the subject of the conference but the editors of this book have been careful to produce a full and integrated review. The 42 chapters are organised into eight sections, each of them introduced with a summary of its contents that provides an overview of the section topic. A concluding chapter considers the challenges that do and will face Scottish nature conservationists. The book covers the full range of habitats, including the marine. As well as addressing the use that non-human species make of the habitats of Scotland, it includes much on the use that mankind makes of the country’s natural resources. To provide a breadth of perspectives, the authors come from a range of backgrounds – people working on the ground to deliver nature conservation; policy makers from both official bodies and NGOs; and scientists from universities and research institutions. (Four chapters have BTO authors).

The book is a pleasure to use. It is physically well-produced, with clear text and abundant illustrations. Unlike too many modern publications, it has a good index. Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Government are to be congratulated on producing such a useful review and source-book.

Book reviewed by Jeremy Greenwood