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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.   We’re proud to share that Merman Conservation Expeditions Ltd. is now officially certified under the WiSe Scheme as a Wildlife Wise Operator and Adventure Guide!
The WiSe Scheme (Wildlife Safe) is the UK’s national training program that promotes responsible wildlife watching, ensuring that operators put animal welfare first while delivering unforgettable nature experiences. This certification reinforces our commitment to ethical field practices—minimizing human impact, educating the public, and always placing respect for wildlife and wild spaces at the heart of every expedition. From marine mammals to terrestrial species, we believe in connecting people to nature in a way that protects it for generations to come. Thank you to the WiSe team for leading the way in responsible wildlife tourism.  © Chris Taklis - Capreolus capreolus What a fantastic day of wildlife recording at Hogganfield Loch and Frankfield Loch! We logged over 21 species in the area, highlighting the rich biodiversity of this urban wetland.
The biggest surprise? A Western Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus) spotted near Stepps—an unexpected but welcome find! Every record helps us better understand and protect the amazing wildlife of Glasgow’s green spaces. Birds:
Mammals: 18. Capreolus capreolus (Western Roe Deer) 19. Sciurus carolinensis (Eastern Gray Squirrel) Invertebrates: 20. Family Lumbricidae (Lumbricid Earthworms) Plants: 21. Crocus tommasinianus (Woodland Crocus) Birdwatching at Lochend Loch, Drumpellier Country Park (Coatbridge, Scotland ) | February 26, 202526/2/2025
 © Chris Taklis - Cygnus olor A fantastic birdwatching session today at Lochend Loch in Drumpellier Country Park! Spotted over 18 species, with plenty of activity both on the water and around the woodland edges.
It’s always amazing to see how much birdlife thrives in this beautiful spot. From waterfowl to woodland birds, there was plenty to see and hear! Birds we spotted:
 © Chris Taklis - Mergus merganser A great day of birdwatching along the Monkland Canal! Spotted 12 species, including some wonderful surprises. The canal is full of life, even in late winter. Always a joy to see how much biodiversity thrives in urban green spaces! Birds we spotted:
 © Chris Taklis - Aythya fuligula This December, we had the opportunity to contribute to several important consultations that will shape the future of Scotland's environment, transportation, and marine management:
1️⃣ Draft Implementation Plan: Vision for Scotland's Public Electric Vehicle Charging Network We joined the conversation about the future of Scotland’s electric vehicle infrastructure, focusing on sustainable development and accessibility for all. 2️⃣ National Marine Plan 2 Planning Position Statement We provided feedback on Scotland’s updated National Marine Plan (NMP2), aiming to ensure that our seas are managed sustainably, balancing current needs with future challenges. 3️⃣ Environmental Protection (Single-Use Vapes) (Scotland) Regulations 2024 We participated in the consultation on proposed changes to regulations targeting single-use vapes, plastics, cotton buds, and microbeads, and the introduction of fixed penalty notices for offences. These consultations are crucial in shaping policies that protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future for Scotland. We're proud to be part of the process and encourage everyone to stay informed and get involved! #Scotland #PublicConsultation #EnvironmentalProtection #MarinePlanning #ElectricVehicles #Sustainability  Scotland's coastal waters are teeming with elasmobranchs, including sharks and rays! From the majestic Basking Shark to the mysterious Common Skate, these marine wonders play a vital role in our ecosystem.
Have you ever spotted one during your seaside adventures? Share your elasmobranch encounters (https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/sharks-in-scotland) or tag a friend who loves marine life! Let's celebrate the diverse and fascinating world beneath the waves. #Elasmobranchs #ScotlandMarineLife #OceanWonders #BiodiversityDiscovery |
IntroFrom conservation initiatives to groundbreaking research, our blog is your portal to the awe-inspiring world of wildlife conservation. Archives
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CompanyMerman Conservation Expeditions LTD
Company Number: SC787239 UK Register of Learning Providers Number UKPRN: 10096857 |
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