Take care of each other and the environment when you are out of doors

Scottish Natural Heritage know that more people are venturing further afield than in the past few months and they want to ensure that everyone knows about the new Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Since lockdown measures have eased, some antisocial behaviour has taken place spoiling the natural beauty of some of our most precious nature spots.

The guidance includes reminders to:

• Plan ahead, avoid busy places.
• Follow physical distancing and remember that people might be shielding.
• Be kind to nature and each other and respectful of local communities.
• Keep your dog under control, especially on farmland – release your dog if threatened by cattle.
• Don’t let your cigarette or BBQ start a wild fire – take extra care when it’s warm and dry.
• Take all of your litter away with you.

Francesca Osowska, SNH Chief Executive, said: “We very much want this love affair with Scotland’s great outdoors and nature to continue. But let’s not spoil it for others. We need be kind to nature and respectful to each other by clearing up after ourselves and taking all of our litter home with us. The scenes of abandoned campsites, burned out trees, human waste, as well as litter, are totally unacceptable and a blight on Scotland’s reputation.

“If we all follow Scottish Government advice and the Scottish Outdoor Access code, we will be doing our bit to ensure that Scotland’s outdoors remains beautiful and that Covid-19 restrictions can continue to be relaxed.”