Protected areas of Scotland

Many parts of Scotland are protected in accordance with a number of national and international designations because of their environmental, historical or cultural value. Protected areas can be divided according to the type of resource which each seeks to protect. NatureScot has various roles in the delivery of many environmental designations in Scotland, i.e. those aimed at protecting flora and fauna, scenic qualities and geological features.^[1] Historic Environment Scotland is responsible for designations that protect sites of historic and cultural importance.^[2] Some international designations, such as World Heritage Sites, can cover both categories of site.^[3]

Part of a series on the
Biodiversity of Scotland
Biodiversity Flora Fauna Birds Scottish breeds Highland fauna
Conservation Special Areas of Conservation
Organisations Wildlife Trusts Scottish Wildlife Trust
Areas Local nature reserves National nature reserves Protected areas National parks National Scenic Areas
Natural history Natural history
v t e

The various designations overlap considerably with many protected areas being covered by multiple designations with different boundaries.