At Merman Conservation, we understand the importance of ensuring that renewable energy projects not only contribute to the environment but also create lasting social and economic benefits for local communities. As part of our commitment to sustainable development, we participated in the recent consultation on community benefits from onshore and offshore renewable energy developments.

We believe that as the renewable energy landscape evolves, with technologies like wind, solar, and hydrogen playing an increasingly vital role, it’s crucial that communities—especially those in rural, island, and coastal areas—are adequately supported. Community benefit schemes are an opportunity to share the success of these developments with those who host them, ensuring that the wealth generated from renewable energy is reinvested back into local economies.

Our views are focused on the need for fairness and transparency in how community benefits are distributed. Developers should prioritize engaging with local communities early in the process and design benefit packages that reflect their specific needs and priorities. This includes ensuring that both smaller and larger communities have equal access to opportunities, with measures in place to address any barriers, such as limited access to finance or capacity in remote areas.

​We also strongly support the idea of updating the Good Practice Principles to reflect the diverse and changing landscape of renewable energy, while ensuring that all communities—especially those most impacted by energy developments—receive meaningful benefits. By participating in this consultation, we hope to help shape a future where community benefits are an integral part of Scotland’s transition to net-zero energy, benefiting both people and the planet for years to come.​

At Merman Conservation Expeditions Ltd, our mission is to advocate for policies that prioritize environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation. That’s why we wholeheartedly support the proposed changes to Scottish Government policy, which aim to provide Ramsar sites with the same level of protection as European sites under the Habitats Regulations Appraisal (HRA) process.

Why These Changes Matter

Ramsar sites are internationally recognized wetlands, essential for preserving biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and supporting local ecosystems. However, despite their importance, the protection measures for these sites have not been as robust as those for European sites. Aligning Ramsar site protections with European standards will:
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• Enhance Conservation Efforts: Strengthening legal safeguards ensures these wetlands can thrive amidst growing environmental pressures.
  
  
• Close Policy Gaps: Uniform treatment of Ramsar and European sites eliminates inconsistencies in habitat protection.
  
  
• Safeguard Scotland’s Natural Heritage: As part of Scotland’s rich biodiversity, Ramsar sites contribute to our environmental identity and ecological health.
  
  

Our Commitment
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Supporting this policy change aligns with our core values and long-term vision of protecting ecosystems for future generations. At Merman Conservation Expeditions Ltd, we believe that a stronger framework for Ramsar sites benefits not only wildlife but also communities and industries that rely on healthy ecosystems.

Let’s protect what matters. 💚