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

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

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

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

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

News and events

The ground breaking Wester Ross Biosphere will bring a range of cultural and economic benefits for the region, said Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) chair, Mike Cantlay.

News update - 23/05/18

On International Biodiversity Day, Scotland is leading the way in progress towards meeting international nature targets.

News update - 22/05/18

Warning to motorists in Scotland to slow down and be on the lookout for deer on the road, especially in May and June.

News update - 17/05/18

Tha co-chomhairle phoblach air liosta de dh’ainmean Gàidhlig air maoraich a ghabhas lorg timcheall costa na h-Alba air tòiseachadh an-diugh (8 Cèitean) le Dualchas Nàdair na h-Alba (SNH). A public consultation on recommended Gaelic names for the most common shellfish in Scotland's seas has been launched today (8 May) by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

News update - 08/05/18

Mike Cantlay, Chair of SNH, responds to the RSPB’s letter on the issuing of the Strathbraan licence.

News update - 03/05/2018

Enter the Nature of Scotland Awards! Deadline for entries is 11 June.

News update - 30/04/2018

Across Scotland, our curlews, lapwings, and oyster catchers bring delight to many of us with their distinctive flight and calls. While they bring our hills and islands alive in spring, their numbers are in serious decline.

News update - 26/04/18

Find out more about Loch Carron's marine life and be part of the public consultation.

Consultation

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Landforms and geology

In this section

Scotland's rocks, landforms and soils

Importance of geodiversity

Pressures on geodiversity

Protecting our geodiversity

News and events

World class nature reserve boost for Wester Ross economy

Scotland's Biodiversity Progress to 2020 Aichi Targets - Interim Report 2017

Warning: High risk of deer on the roads in May and June

Trusadh ainmean nam maorach/Gathering names for shellfish

SNH response to RSPB on the Strathbraan licence

Nature of Scotland Awards 2018

SNH Statement on Strathbraan Licence

Loch Carron possible MPA Consultation 20 March - 13 June 2018