About marine protection
Scotland has some of the most beautiful and diverse marine ecosystems in the world. Marine Scotland is committed to protecting and enhancing these amazing ecosystems to ensure they are safeguarded for future generations to enjoy. Protected areas are used to ensure protection of some of the most vulnerable species and habitats.
The Scottish MPA network includes sites for nature conservation, protection of biodiversity, demonstrating sustainable management, and protecting our heritage.
Take a look at the map to see some of the MPAs in our Scottish shores, and click on the layers to find out more about each site.
This is an interactive map.
Ways to get involved
Have your say on Marine Protection Areas in Scotland
This is an example activity for demonstration purposes only. This site is operated by Delib Ltd and submitted responses will be discarded.
Your impact
Here are some decisions we made based on your contributions and feedback.
We asked:
We consulted on Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs). The proposed approach was to strictly protect and leave undisturbed all natural processes of the marine ecosystem within HPMA site boundaries.
The Scottish Government consulted on what HPMAs in Scotland should look like, how they should be selected and implemented, and how they could impact our lives. More specifically, we asked for your views on the proposed HPMA draft Policy Framework (for introducing powers to designate HPMAs in Scottish inshore waters), and associated documents.
You said:
You provided us with 4,502 individual responses. Key findings of the consultation included that:
- 55% were in support, 43% were opposed and only 2% were neutral.
- Concerns regarding the potential impacts on local communities were shared by both those on both sides.
- Collaboration, partnership working and building on the knowledge and values of local people was emphasised by both opposed and supporting respondents.
We did:
The proposed policy will not be implemented meaning HPMAs will not be introduced in 10% of Scottish seas by 2026, and the draft HPMA Policy Framework and Site Selection Guidelines, will not be published. Furthermore, we no longer intend to progress the establishment of new legal powers for introducing HPMAs in Scottish inshore waters through a Bill in the Scottish Parliament this parliamentary term.