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Landforms and geology

Discover what Scotland’s geodiversity reveals and why it’s such a valuable resource. Pressures put our geodiversity at risk – find out how to protect it.

In this section

Scotland's rocks, landforms and soils

Colliding continents, ancient volcanoes, powerful glaciers and changing climates shaped our world-famous landscapes. Scotland’s geodiversity reveals how.
Importance of geodiversity

Looking after our geodiversity is vital to conserving Scotland's landscapes and nature and will protect many economic, social and environmental benefits.
Pressures on geodiversity

Scotland's geodiversity is irreplaceable and vulnerable to certain activities and changes in land use. Unearth the issues at stake.
Protecting our geodiversity

Some of Scotland's geodiversity is safeguarded in protected areas, and we also promote ways to conserve, enhance and manage geodiversity beyond designated sites.

Find out more

Uncover secrets, discover varied landscapes and travel through historic geology with our Landscape fashioned by geology publication series

News

An innovative method developed in Scotland to help conserve genetic diversity in wild species is being trialled in Libya.

News - 17 September

Find out how Tentsmiuir NNR is actively engaging with Net Zero utilising electric vehicles on the reserve.

Blog - 15 September

Divers have documented the hidden life of many of Fair Isle’s remote sea caves for the first time.

News - 10 September

If you want to know more about black slugs, especially their mucus, read on.

Blog - 13 September

NatureScot has published its latest biodiversity indicator tracking 41 species of wintering waterbirds.

News - 09 September

Temperatures breaking 27°C and 96% humidity brought an unusual stillness and hush to the national nature reserve this week.

Blog - 10 September