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Smoo cave a limestone cave near Durness, North Highland Area ©Lorne Gill. For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.nature.scot

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

Watch the drama of grey seals pupping on the Isle of May NNR and connect with amazing wildlife at Tentsmuir NNR.

News - 20 October

Lorne's favourite waterfalls from this spectacular time of year.

Blog - 27 October

Lead nature agency NatureScot is sharing stunning images for those who can’t travel to witness these wildlife wonders this year.

News - 15 October

Each year, Atlantic salmon make an incredible journey returning to their breeding grounds.

Blog - 23 October

Latest survey shows an increase in people visiting the outdoors and engaging with nature.

News - 14 October

Our dual-language Gaelic blog remembers the Scottish nature poet Duncan Bàn MacIntyre.

Blog - 20 October