Scotland needs a clearer metric for renewables and the environment
The Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill, introduced in February 2025, seeks to enhance nature and protect biodiversity through, amongst other measures, the introduction of legally binding targets to improve biodiversity. The bill is framework legislation with the crucial detail and metrics being set by Scottish ministers at a later date, after the bill is passed. The devil will, of course, be in the detail of these metrics.
Recognising the uncertainty caused by having no common metric, the Scottish Government also commissioned NatureScot to adapt England's Biodiversity Metric 4.0 to develop a Scottish Biodiversity Metric to support NPF4's implementation. It is a welcome step – but success depends on developing a purpose-built, not repurposed, metric.
The need for greater clarity is clear, but that doesn't mean adopting a one-size-fits-all model.
A workable Scottish metric would support progress without creating unnecessary barriers. It must provide a level of standardisation across planning authorities to reduce inconsistency, while remaining adaptable enough to account for local conditions – particularly in rural and island communities where both development challenges and ecological priorities may differ. It should also be proportionate – ensuring biodiversity enhancements are meaningful but achievable, especially on complex or remote sites.
This kind of metric should give developers greater certainty over what is expected, while equipping planners with consistent tools to assess proposals.
Crucially, any future guidance must reflect that biodiversity and clean energy are not competing priorities. Wind farms, solar arrays, hydro schemes and grid upgrades are essential to Scotland's net zero targets. When done well, these projects can also protect Scotland's environment. However, poorly aligned biodiversity requirements could delay the very developments needed to cut emissions and strengthen our energy security.
Structured flexibility is key. Without it, Scotland risks fragmented outcomes, inconsistent decision-making and potential delays to vital infrastructure.
Scotland's net zero ambitions depend on the timely delivery of complex infrastructure – much of it in sensitive natural environments. A pragmatic biodiversity metric can bridge the gap between providing the certainty developers need while ensuring that environmental outcomes are properly assessed and delivered.
By taking this approach, Scotland can lead the way in integrating nature recovery with climate action – not by compromising on either, but by planning for both.
Isobell Reid is a Partner in the Energy & Renewables team at Morton Fraser MacRobert
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