European Landscape Convention

This Council of Europe initiative highlights the importance of all landscapes and encourages greater input to their care and planning.

EU Exit has no direct impact on the European Landscape Convention.

The UK signed up to the European Landscape Convention in 2006, and it now provides a framework for our work for Scotland’s landscapes.

View our video about the European Landscape Convention’s approach on our YouTube channel:

UK ELC conference 2010
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Duration
03:03

A short video discussing the value of Scotland's landscape.

The approach is based on the five principles listed below.

  1. All landscapes - Every landscape is important because everyone has a right to live in and enjoy the benefits of vibrant surroundings. 
  2. Shared landscapes - Scotland's landscapes are a common asset and everyone has rights and responsibilities for looking after them. 
  3. Your landscapes - People and communities should always be involved in decisions that shape their landscapes.
  4. Understanding landscapes - Decisions need to be based on understanding and awareness of both the cultural and natural dimensions of our landscapes.
  5. Dynamic landscapes - Landscapes will continue to change, but change needs to be informed and managed to ensure they remain resilient.

Read in detail about the European Landscape Convention on the Council of Europe website.

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