UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the opportunity for the Scottish Borders
April 2021 Contents Introduction
Introduction 3 This paper sets out to scope the opportunity of creating a UNESCO Biosphere in the Scottish Borders. What is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve? 4 It is a first step towards exploring the idea in the Form & Function 5 context of the Scottish Borders and intends to be a Scottish Borders Context 6 starting point for discussion. Policy Context: Common Aims & Objectives 8 The paper begins with an introduction to UNESCO Tool Not Title 10 Biospheres, a concept created over 40 years ago Education and Exchange 12 but still little understood in the UK. It provides a Participation and Process 14 summary of the opportunities and benefits that a UNESCO Biosphere designation could bring to the Governance from Grassroots 15 Scottish Borders, whilst also highlighting some of the challenges and the process of getting there. Spatial Options 17 Through a summary of the regional environmental and 1 The River Tweed 18 economic context, the paper aims to demonstrate 2 The Tweed Valley 20 how a UNESCO Biosphere could complement existing 3 Central Borders and Eildon Hills 22 initiatives. A time line illustrating this and suggesting 4 The Tweedsmuir Hills 24 moments to take action is also included.
A series of short case studies provide useful Case Studies comparisons and demonstrate how qualities which Amazon of Europe 26 the Scottish Borders shares have been translated into UNESCO Biosphere concepts elsewhere. Finally, four Bassin de la Dordogne 27 illustrated spatial options consider what a Scottish The Maasheggen 28 Borders UNESCO Biosphere might look like on the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire 29 ground.
A UNESCO Biosphere may not be the right tool Conclusions 30 to support the Scottish Borders in achieving its Next Steps 31 environmental, economic and community development Bibliography & Further Reading 32 objectives, however we hope this paper will begin the exploratory process needed to make this decision.
The paper has been produced by The Southern Uplands Partnership. The project is supported by NatureScot, through the Green Recovery Fund
www.sup.org.uk www.nature.scot
2 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 3 What is a UNESCO Biosphere? Form & Function UNESCO Biospheres are areas designated for Biospheres focus on balancing The form of a UNESCO Biosphere is based around learning about and testing, approaches to sustainable three zones, which when working together enable the development. They are places to develop and nature conservation with Biosphere to fulfil its purpose: implement local solutions to global challenges, based on innovative practice and the study of the interactions sustainable economic and Core Zone This is an area already protected by law for between social and ecological systems. social development for and with conservation, such as an SSSI or SAC. A Biosphere can have one or more Core areas. Theatres for Reconciling People and Nature communities. Buffer Zone UNESCO Biospheres aim to improve human UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Technical Guidelines, 2021 An area suitable for lower impact activities such livelihoods whilst safeguarding the earth’s ecosystems. as recreation & tourism, education and grazing. They do this by promoting innovative approaches to Management techniques can be developed and economic development that are socially and culturally tested here, in order to maintain the diversity of appropriate and environmentally sustainable. these ecosystems. Transition Zone UNESCO Biospheres are an international designation. This area contains a wider range of activity including They are different from other designations such larger settlements and industry. The goal is to as National Parks, which are areas protected for support communities in creating and maintaining conservation. Although Biospheres contain existing sustainable socio-economic and land-use systems. protected areas, the purpose of Biospheres is to balance the dynamic relationship between people and UNESCO Biospheres do not involve new legislation 1 the environment. Biospheres are not simply a title or a or regulations. Designation does not lead to any new synonym for nature conservation. Scottish Borders activities being forbidden. However it is important that the activities that take place support the functions of UNESCO Biospheres in the UK 2 the Biosphere: The first UNESCO Biosphere was created in 1974 Monitoring Research and there are now 700+ designated sites worldwide. Together, the Biospheres form a global network, the Education ‘World Network of Biosphere Reserves’, which is Settlements 3 & Training managed through an inter-governmental programme called ‘Man and the Biosphere’ (MAB). The network Recreation Industry, e.g. is an important feature of Biospheres because it 4 & Tourism farming & forestry provides a framework for sharing and communicating 8 knowledge, experience and lessons learned. To operate as successful models for sustainable development, UNESCO Biosphere needs to fulfil three There are seven UNESCO Biospheres in the UK, with 5 7 key, interrelated functions: an eighth currently in the planning stages. Biospheres 6 are usually established through a ground-up approach, whereby local communities and stakeholders collectively decide they would like to create a Biosphere. CONSERVATION DEVELOPMENT LOGISTIC SUPPORT 1. Wester Ross, designated in 1976, extended and UNESCO Biospheres must include areas of renamed in 2016 Conserving the natural and Shaping economic and cultural Supporting people to look cultural diversity of a region. development to respond to after, engage with and promote 2. Galloway and Southern Ayrshire, designated in significance for biodiversity, which is why in the people and place. the Biosphere. UK, each Biosphere needs to have an already 1976, extended and renamed in 2012 protected area at its heart. This is typically a Site 3. Isle of Man, designated in 2016 This involves of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or Special Area 4. Biosffer Dyfi, designated in 1977 This involves This involves of Conservation (SAC). The protected area makes 5. North Devon, designated in1976, extended in • Conservation of biodiversity • Sustainable economic • Research & monitoring up a small portion of the whole Biosphere, which 2002 • Conservation of cultural development • Education & training also includes settlements where people live and 6. Isle of Wight, designated in 2019 diversity • Social development • Support & promotion of projects work, places for recreation, leisure and tourism and 7. Brighton and Lewes Downs, designated in 2014 • Development of cultural industries such as farming and forestry. The diagram 8. Cambridgeshire Fens, application in progress diversity opposite illustrates how the different areas relate.
4 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 5 Scottish Borders Context
The Scottish Borders is a largely rural area with a is under pressure from multiple demands on its A UNESCO Biosphere could provide a tool to help the and improve the amenity and environment of the population scattered across a collection of distinctive resources, through afforestation, intensive land Scottish Borders manage its resources in a sustainable South of Scotland”. These aims, along with SoSE’s towns and villages. Land is one of the Scottish management, invasive non-native species, burning way, supporting economic development which commitment to long-term investment in the region, Borders’ biggest assets, but the varied landscapes of grouse moors and inappropriate grazing. These strengthens the region’s biggest assets. align with the approach of UNESCO Biospheres. which make up this diverse region are not untouched. pressures can cause problems, such as the polluting Rather, they have a long historical and cultural of water courses, which affect the environment’s ability Outlined below are some of the key environmental, Cultivating a Culture of Stewardship significance as part of a working countryside. to deliver vital ecosystem services. economic and social conditions which define the • More people have spent more time in and Scottish Borders context today: engaging with nature during the Covid-19 From the uplands, home of sheep farming in Scotland, At the same time, the Scottish Borders Council lockdown. In a study by the University of Cumbria, to the rivers which powered textile mills, to the has put economic development at the heart of The River Tweed and its Tributaries this led to 57% of young adults aged 18-30 years floodplain hay meadows, people have been important their purpose. Whilst moving towards a low carbon • Running for 160km and stretching from the saying they are more likely to consider global participants in the development of the Scottish economy, it aims attract and grow entrepreneurial Scottish Borders’ western boundary to its eastern environmental issues in the future. Borders environment for centuries. people, up-skill and future-proof the workforce, build edge, the river Tweed connects many of the area’s • There is an ongoing campaign for a Scottish on the area’s environmental and cultural assets and towns and villages, bringing a strong identity to this Borders National Park. Whilst the structure of Today, at a time of a climate and biodiversity raise the profile of the Scottish Borders at a Scottish, border region. National Parks is very different to UNESCO emergency that requires action, this environment UK and international level. • The River Tweed and its tributaries are of Biospheres, the aims have similarities, including international significance for ecological diversity, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources with much of the river network designated as a and the conservation of natural heritage. Special Area of Conservation. • The (currently in development) Destination Tweed • In 2015 the River Tweed was winner of the first project seeks to reconnect local people with the Scottish Borders ever UK Rivers Prize. river and the land, increasing their understanding Administrative Boundary • The river played a vital role historically in the of management challenges whilst fostering a new River Tweed Catchment Area development of the textile industry and continues sense of stewardship. Lothians Eyemouth to be of significance today for fishing tourism. • Tom Rawson, winner of the 2019 River Champion Award, established the annual Great Borders River Whiteadder Water Integrated Approach to Land Management Clean, which in 2020 involved around 450 people. Duns Berwick Gala Water • The Tweed Forum has been pursuing a West Linton Developing Skills for a 21st Century Climate Lauder catchment-scale approach to ecosystem Leader Water management for over 25 years, work that is now • Borders College existing Rural Skills department Blackadder Water recognised at a national level. The Tweed Forum’s is developing dedicated curriculum pathways Peebles Coldstream Walkerburn Earlston Tweed Catchment Management Plans provide for sustainability and biodiversity. The college is Biggar a “single management framework for the many also involved in proposals for a new Rural Skills Innerleithen Kelso River Till Galashiels Melrose interacting and interdependent ecosystem services Academy on the Roxburgh Estate. provided by the waters of the Tweed catchment”. • Diversification of courses at the Heriot-Watt School Selkirk Wooler • The Tweed Forum is a membership organisation, of Design in Galashiels means a wider variety of River Tweed Yarrow Water established in 1991 as a stakeholder-led group young creatives will be living and studying here. Jedburgh with a bottom-up approach to governance. A New courses have already engaged in projects UNESCO Biosphere could create an opportunity to with an environmental focus. Ettrick Water Borthwick Water Hawick strengthen and evolve the work the Tweed Forum Kale Water • Kelso High School is developing ‘Project Themed has done and continues to do, recognising the link
Jed Water Learning’ for S1 & S2 students, activity which will between land use and the health of our rivers. River Teviot be based on the needs of students and society. Moffat • A number of community-led initiatives, such as A New Vision for Development Northumberland Tweedgreen’s Jedderfield Farm project, seek to Dumfries & Galloway • The future of economic and community explore ways our communities can lead more development in the Scottish Borders has recently sustainable lifestyles through education. taken a new turn, with the launch of South of Langholm Scotland Enterprise (SoSE) in April 2021. SoSE has two aims: “to further the sustainable economic and social development of the South of Scotland,
6 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 7 Policy Context
The policy landscape is complex and fragmented, with Existing Initiatives and Investment the borderland nature of the region bringing additional Initiatives and investments at a range of scales are challenges in navigating a path to a sustainable future. currently being developed and delivered within the Scottish Borders and north Northumberland. These However, through consultation and research, we have initiatives include, but are not limited to: seen much potential for a UNESCO Biosphere to support existing policy and strategy. There has been • Regional Land Use Partnerships, Scottish Borders little indication that a Biosphere would conflict with pilot (2021- 2023) the existing aims and objectives (relating to economic • Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, including & community development and conservation & Destination Tweed, Natural Capital projects and biodiversity) of the Scottish Government, Scottish Rural Skills & Innovation projects (2021 - 2031) Borders Council and statutory agencies, as set out in • Local Nature Recovery Strategy, Northumberland some of the key documents below: pilot (2020 - 2021) • Land Use Strategy for Scotland 2016 – 2021 • Great Northumberland Forest (2019 - ongoing) (Scottish Government) • Northumberland Peat Partnership (including Tweed • Scottish Biodiversity Strategy, post 2020 Forum, established 2021) Statement of Intent (Scottish Government) • Campaign for a Scottish Borders National Park • Climate Change Plan, 2018 - 2032 (Scottish (2016 - ongoing) Government) UNESCO Biospheres act like an umbrella, providing • Scottish Borders Local Biodiversity Action Plan, a long-term structure to bring a range of components 2018 - 2028 (Scottish Borders Council) together, including initiatives such as those listed • Scottish Borders Council Responding to the above. The Biosphere does not seek to take control of Climate Emergency Report 2020 the other components, but rather facilitate connections • Scotland’s Forestry Strategy 2019 – 2029 between them, bringing together stakeholders who • State of Nature Report, 2019 wouldn’t usually engage in dialogue.
• South of Scotland Enterprise Act 2019 The Biosphere also shapes future initiatives and investments, helping to align the aims of each From these documents, a number of statements and component so that energy is focussed towards the objectives shared with UNESCO Biospheres have shared vision. More information about how this shared been identified: vision is established can be found on pages 14 & 15.
• Aim for a green recovery, including the delivery of In order to build on the work already happening in the green growth. Scottish Borders, it is important to consider the timing • Aim for the area to be an exemplar for the UK for establishing a UNESCO Biosphere. A suggested in the development of clean growth rural land time-line can be found on page 31. management practices. • Promotion of the sustainable and efficient use and re-use of resources. • Aim to maintain, protect and enhance natural and cultural diversity and the quality of the environment • Recognition that land use is important to communities and individuals as well as land- owners and policy makers. • Recognition that biodiversity is not only inherently valuable but key to supporting the local economy. Opposite: Covers of recent selected strategies, action plans, management plans, studies and reports relating to the environment and communities of the Scottish Borders.
8 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 9 Tool Not Title
Each UNESCO Biosphere is different in its geographic, social and political context. Biospheres therefore use Through consultation, a number of questions their designations to address different issues. Some were raised concerning the difference between Biospheres may have a particular interest in marketing National Parks and UNESCO Biospheres. The their areas for eco-tourism, while for others there may two designations share some common aims, but be a strong focus on habitat creation. Through the seek to achieve these through different means: Biosphere nomination process and after designation, communities and stakeholders work together to National Park UNESCO Biosphere determine the issues that they would like their Biosphere to help them address. Statutory Body Non Statutory Body
The Scottish Borders context lends itself to particular Nationally designated Internationally designated types of opportunities. Below are some ideas for through Scottish through UNESCO with discussion: Government support of UK and Scottish government • Creation and conservation of pollinator habitat along SAC designated watercourses Part of a world network of Biospheres that shares • Adaptation of upland land uses to support local international learning livelihoods • Exploration of community ownership and/or Regulatory governance Participatory governance management of fisheries model (primarily through model seeking to planning and public address challenges and • Development of regional e-bike hire and access) opportunities through charging service to support eco-tourism and de- discussion carbonisation of rural travel Aims Aims Example: Rhön Biosphere conserve and enhance contribute to the The Rhön Biosphere in central Germany uses the the natural and cultural conservation of biological branding of regional products to support both heritage of the area and cultural diversity conservation and development objectives. The Rhön sheep, one of the oldest livestock breeds in Germany, promote sustainable foster economic and was reintroduced to the area for conservation grazing use of an area’s natural human development and as a local delicacy, supporting local farmers. resources which is socio-culturally & ecologically sustainable In the Scottish Borders, the restoration of species rich grasslands and floodplains could lend itself to the promote understanding provide support for conservation grazing of heritage breed sheep. Hawick and enjoyment of the research, monitoring, based heritage meat butcher ‘Going Native’, is already special qualities of the education and exchange area by the public related to local, national developing a market for this type of local produce. and global issues of conservation and Example: North Devon Biosphere development. In the North Devon Biosphere a number of habitat restoration projects build on previous habitat promote sustainable support mitigation management and creation experiments. This work economic and social and adaptation to is helping the area to build resilience against climate development of the climate change and change as heavier rainfalls risk more severe flooding area’s communities other aspects of global events. environmental change
In the Scottish Borders, restoring peatlands in the upper part of the Tweed catchment can help to slow the flow of water into the rivers, reducing peak flow during storms. Opposite: the Cheviot Hills from Chirnside 1
10 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 11 Education & Exchange
Education is a key component of UNESCO Existing Research Interests & Strengths Future Opportunities: Education & Training Future Opportunities: Research & Monitoring Biospheres. Education enables people living and Organisations in the Scottish Borders are already Through creating partnerships with organisations New research in the Biosphere would seek to further working in the Biosphere to make informed decisions contributing to a number of research areas and some already working in the Scottish Borders, a UNESCO the Biosphere’s purpose and could be in a variety of about the sustainable use of its resources. At a of this work is recognised at a UK level: Biosphere could support opportunities for: areas including applied science, social science, arts & management level, sound scientific research combined humanities and interdisciplinary. It is usual for scientists with local and traditional knowledge provides a basis • Wild Seasons: Nature-based Tourism (Southern • Live projects for the Rural Skills department at the and researchers working with a Biosphere, over time, for decision making. Uplands Partnership) Borders College and the proposed Rural Skills to develop a number of specialist research interests Academy at the Roxburgh Estate which reflect the Biosphere’s vision and purpose. • South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project (Southern Education takes place at all levels and is a Uplands Partnership) • Project themed learning in schools, similar to the collaborative activity. A Biosphere does not contain model being developed at Kelso High School The vision for a Scottish Borders Biosphere would an ‘education department’, but rather collaborates on • Talla Hart-Fell Wild Land: Economic Appraisal be defined during the nomination process, however • Live projects for conservation tourism, being projects with universities, research institutions, local (Southern Uplands Partnership, SRUC) examples of some relevant research interests are listed promoted through the Tweed Valley Tourism BID schools, charities and organisations. • Integrated catchment management (Tweed Forum) below: and the Southern Uplands Partnership • Natural flood management (Tweed Forum, Dundee UNESCO’s national and international Biosphere • Hands-on training for volunteers with organisations • Opportunities for conservation tourism and nature- University and the University of Edinburgh) networks also play an important role as forums for the already working in the Biosphere’s Core and Buffer based tourism • Invasive non-native species management (Tweed areas, such as the Borders Forest Trust, Scottish exchange of knowledge, experience and research. • Opportunities for community ownership of assets, Forum, Tweed Foundation) Wildlife Trust and John Muir Trust Biospheres can learn from each other through including land and waterways research visits, stakeholder exchanges and thematic • Migratory fish population dynamics, fish population • PhD, Masters and Undergraduate research • Managing rivers for competing or conflicting summer schools and conferences. structure and impact of global warming on projects in collaboration with universities, (eg. recreational demands migratory fish (Tweed Foundation) Centre for the Rural Economy at Newcastle • Value of traditional land management practices in The diagram below illustrates the range of educational • Textiles industry heritage (Heriot-Watt School of University, Heriot-Watt University). activities which make Biospheres important learning supporting and enhancing biodiversity Design) • Practical training for land managers to help them places for sustainable development. The thematic carry out tasks in ways which support biodiversity. • Relationship between peatland and riverine focus of these activities would depend upon hydrological systems the unique context of the Biosphere. • Youth participation in national and international • The effects of riparian land-use on the quality of Community Education exchanges and conferences organised through the Creates opportunities for people, Man and the Biosphere Programme. aquatic and wetland habitats including children, to learn about the environment and culture of the Biosphere.
Raising Public Awareness Training Communicates the purpose Supports people in looking and qualities of the Biosphere, after the Biosphere, including building support and providing a Biosphere staff and door to further engagement. conservation volunteers.
the Biosphere: a learning place for sustainable development Research Knowledge Sharing Academic and vocational National and international research provides a sound exchange enables Biospheres scientific basis for making to learn from each other’s decisions about conservation experiences and share research and the use of resources. and best practice. Long-term monitoring Enables the health of the Biosphere to be assessed and informs decision making regarding management. Outdoor learning with primary school children 2 Youth delegates at the first MAB Youth Forum, Italy3
12 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 13 Participation and Process Governance from Grassroots re h Preparation and circulation of preliminary a e e r Management Team: e w scoping study and consultation with UNESCO Biospheres take a participatory approach, C As a global designation, UNESCO Biospheres are, Operational delivery selected stakeholders. both during their nomination and establishment phase by necessity, relatively flexible frameworks. Each • Explore funding and partnership and through their ongoing management. This means Biosphere has its own governance structure, specific opportunities that rather than being managed from the top-down to the geographic, social and economic context • Deliver on the Biosphere’s Strategic Plan Initial support and interest levels gauged. through a regulatory system, decision making is in which it is operating. The structure aims to be • Develop relationships between A decision to progress further made carried out with and by local communities. democratic and inclusive of stakeholders. Wherever businesses and agencies based on this response. possible, those participating in the governance of the • Lead on individual projects within the Local communities refers not only to stakeholders Biosphere should have an equal voice, regardless of Biosphere (for example local councillors, or representatives from their societal position. Raising awareness at all levels of • Build support for the Biosphere organisations such as the RSPB or National Farmer’s UNESCO Biospheres and the ‘Man and Union), but includes everyone who lives and works in The diagram opposite provides an example of what a the Biosphere’ (MAB) programme. the Biosphere. governance structure for a Biosphere in the Scottish Borders could look like. The example is loosely based Local People The process of becoming a UNESCO Biosphere is a on the structure used in the Galloway and Southern Extensive community participation to long one, usually lasting several years. Whilst this can C Ayrshire Biosphere. Whilst this provides a discussion define the vision, ambition, purpose, Working Groups: bring challenges in terms of resourcing, it also allows point, it is important that the structure be developed location and governance of the Strategic delivery & support time for the Biosphere’s vision to be developed though out of the local context. In the Scottish Borders, this proposed Biosphere. This could be an iterative process of community engagement. might involve considering the role already played by • Smaller groups of people drawn from the through a combination of multi-sector Questions to be considered as part of this process organisations such as the Tweed Forum and The Partnership Board and local community, workshops, focus groups, technical would include; Tweed Foundation. those with a special interest or knowledge. meetings and public meetings. • Actively support the Management Team in • Why do we want to create a Biosphere? Crucially, as the diagram illustrates, the structure the delivery of their duties and oversee the • How will we benefit from the Biosphere? can be grown from the grassroots up, involving local delivery of the Biosphere’s Strategic Plan • How will we use the Biosphere concept in our daily Meeting with the UK MAB Committee to people in several levels, including at the strategic lives? discuss the potential of a Biosphere. level. Participants can be drawn from a wide range of • How will we contribute to the World Network of communities and organisations, but could include: Biosphere reserves? • Community Trusts, such as the Tweedsmuir Agreement to proceed with the The flow diagram opposite summarises the first stages C Community Company nomination made between local Partnership Board: of the nomination process. Whilst only a rough guide, • Local business owners, such as activity and communities and government authorities. Vision & strategic direction the diagram illustrates how communities are involved accommodation providers • A board of representatives of the people in the drafting, approving and supporting of the vision. • Primary and secondary food producers who live and work in the Biosphere Concept Biosphere presented to the UK • Green groups such as Greener Melrose and Sea • The board sets the strategic direction of the C community involvement in decision making MAB national committee for review. the Change Biosphere and monitors its performance in • Borders College relation to its vision. • Borders Forest Trust • Southern Uplands Partnership If successful, area becomes a Candidate • Tweed Valley Tourism BID Biosphere Reserve, helping to build local • Forestry and Land Scotland support & visibility. • The Tweed Foundation • The Tweed Forum Everyone who lives in the Biosphere is a • Local councillors part of it and everyone can choose how Prepare UNESCO Biosphere nomination C much they engage with it. Individuals, file, with input from local communities. Day-to-day management of the Biosphere is carried businesses and communities of place out by a small management team. These team or purpose can all actively participate in members are recruited specifically for these roles, for the Biosphere. which ongoing funding is required. Submit Biosphere nomination file for decision by the International Coordinating Council for the MAB Programme.
14 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 15 Spatial Options: Overview
The map below shows the areas within the Scottish Existing conservation designations Borders that are protected with Scottish or EU Special Area of Conservation (SAC) - European site conservation designations. The Core areas of a Biosphere must already be protected through a Special Protection Area (SPA) - European site designation of SSSI, SAC or SPA. Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
On the following page, four spatial options for a National Scenic Area (NSA) UNESCO Biosphere are set out for discussion. These Talla - Hart Fells Wild Land Area (WLA) are starting points, and it may be that a combination or hybrid of two of these is most appropriate. Area proposed for Scottish Borders National Park
National Forest Estate (2019)
River Tweed Catchment Area
Eyemouth
Duns Berwick
West Linton Lauder
Peebles
Galashiels Biggar Coldstream Innerleithen Melrose Kelso
Selkirk Wooler
Jedburgh
Hawick
Moffat
Langholm
Opposite: Talla Reservoir 4
16 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 17 Spatial Option 1 The River Tweed
Overview Proposed Biosphere Zoning Strengths The most ambitious of the four spatial proposals, Core Zone • Could strengthen and progress the catchment- this option encompasses the whole of the Scottish wide approach to environmental management Buffer Zone Borders, along with a portion of Northumberland already pursued through the work of the Tweed and the Lothians, to enable the Biosphere to cover Transition Zone Forum. the entirety of the River Tweed Catchment. The SSSI • Trans-boundary option which could promote and SAC designated River Tweed and Whiteadder, Existing Boundaries an environment-led approach to sustainable Blackadder, Teviot, Ettrick and Yarrow tributaries development strategy in border regions. would form the Core of the Biosphere. The Buffer Scottish Borders Administrative Boundary • Option to include the Berwickshire and North Zone takes in some of the smaller riverside towns and River Tweed Catchment Area villages, along with the Moorfoot Hills and Tweedsmuir Northumberland Coast SAC in the Core zone, Hills SSSIs and the Eildon & Leaderfoot and Upper which could enhance understanding of the river Tweeddale National Scenic Areas. network and sea as a connected hydrological system. This could help address issues around nutrient levels and pollution more effectively, for example. • Could collectively support land-managers in adapting their practices, identifying opportunities & threads and navigating policy changes as a result Eildon and Leaderfoot of the climate and biodiversity emergency. National Scenic Area Upper Tweeddale • Would be unique as the only UK UNESCO National Scenic Area Eyemouth Biosphere reserve to be formed around a complete river system. • Promotes a marketable identity for the area based Berwick Duns on the River Tweed and its tributaries, building
Lauder on the work of Destination Tweed and existing recognition of the area as a fishing destination. • Regional approach may be viewed favourably by UNESCO. A precedent for the river catchment- Biggar scale approach is the Dordogne Basin Biosphere
Kelso in France, a case study for which can be found on page 27. Selkirk Wooler Challenges Jedburgh • Establishing a Buffer Zone around the watercourses which meets UNESCO’s criteria. Hawick With many of the larger towns and villages situated on the river, this poses a challenge because these settlements may not be considered as being Moffat compatible with the objectives of the Core Zone. • May be challenging to bring many divergent Tweedsmuir Hills SSSI communities from across the region together under a single ‘umbrella’, both logistically and in terms of identity.
Langholm
18 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 19 Spatial Option 2 The Tweed Valley
Overview Proposed Biosphere Zoning Strengths This option focusses on the area around the Tweed Core Zone • Existing distinctive identity as an activity hotspot is Valley Forest Park, with the Transition Zone extending being strengthened through the work of the Tweed Buffer Zone to the upland areas of Upper Tweeddale and Valley Tourism BID and the proposed creation of a Tweedsmuir. The Core of the Biosphere would be Transition Zone Mountain Biking Innovation Centre in Innerleithen. the river network within the Tweed Valley, including a A Biosphere in this area could help monitor and portion of the river Tweed and small sections of the Existing Boundaries manage visitor impact on the environment as more Leithen Water, Eddleston Water, Quair Water and people use the area for recreation. Glenkinnon Burn tributaries. The Buffer Zone takes Scottish Borders Administrative Boundary • There is already ambition to develop opportunities in the Tweed Valley Forest Park, working forests River Tweed Catchment Area for conservation tourism within the Tweed Valley which are managed by Forestry and Land Scotland area, which could be further promoted through a to provide space for recreation alongside forestry UNESCO Biosphere. The John Muir Trust site at operations. Glenlude provides an example of the opportunities that can be created for learning, volunteering and research. • Focus on the farthest upstream section of the Tweed with a significant population size could help Moorfoot Hills SSSI mitigate environmental issues further downstream such as flooding, invasive species and pollution. • Possibility of specialist research focus on impact of Upper Tweeddale Eyemouth National Scenic Area forest management on water quality. • Buffer Zone could extend further, into the Upper Tweeddale National Scenic Area, Tweedsmuir Hills Berwick SSSI and Moorfoot Hills SSSI, linking the hydrology of peatland and river. Lauder • Very close proximity to Edinburgh for potential research activity (30mins drive / 50mins train) • Boundary could sit within the Scottish Borders Biggar Administrative boundary.
Kelso Challenges Selkirk Wooler • Buffer Zone would include the larger towns and villages of Peebles, Cardrona, Innerleithen Jedburgh and Walkerburn. Whilst this could provide an opportunity for these settlements to move towards Hawick sustainable development objectives such as net- zero, further research is needed to understand the short-term implications for these communities. Moffat • Securing funding for a Biosphere in a specific area of the Scottish Borders which is already seeing some investment and which features the smallest Tweedsmuir Hills SSSI population size of all the proposed spatial options.
Langholm
20 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 21 Spatial Option 3 Central Borders & Eildon Hills
Overview Proposed Biosphere Zoning Strengths This option, focussed on the central area of the Core Zone • Central Scottish Borders location which takes Scottish Borders, takes in many of the largest towns in a large proportion of the population, including and villages, including areas which score lowest Buffer Zone towns and villages that would benefit from further regionally on the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation Transition Zone investment. A Biosphere in this area may help unite and which have been negatively impacted by the some of the disparate and diverse communities in decline of the textile industry. Although this proposal Existing Boundaries the Scottish Borders, whilst still allowing each to includes the highly scenic, historic and distinctive retain their strong local identity. area around the Eildon Hills, the Core Zone has a less Scottish Borders Administrative Boundary • Includes the Eildon and Leaderfoot National Scenic well-defined character, comprising a stretch of the River Tweed Catchment Area Area, one of the most distinctive landscapes in the river Tweed and a large cluster of small SSSI sites, the Scottish Borders which has a rich cultural heritage. majority of which are mosses and mires. • Presence of Heriot-Watt University, Borders College and the Scottish Borders Council Headquarters within the Biosphere could offer valuable opportunities for education and research activity. • Economic development is currently at the heart of the Scottish Borders Council’s purpose. There is pressure to increase the value of the textiles, tourism, construction, creative, farming and food Eyemouth & drink industries, activities which all take place within this spatial proposal. A Biosphere could help the economic development of the area take place Berwick whilst enhancing the quality of the environment, a key driver for people wishing to live and work here. Lauder • Possibility of specialist research focus on relationship between agriculture and water resources / quality. Walkerburn Earlston Biggar Innerleithen Weaknesses Kelso Selkirk • The outer boundary of both the Buffer and St. Boswells Transition Zones is difficult to define, with no clear Wooler natural or administrative boundary. Deciding which land falls within these areas could be particularly Jedburgh Walkerburn challenging and could risks lacking clear justification. Hawick • The Buffer Zone, sitting to the east of Galashiels, is largely comprised of low-lying agricultural land. Moffat With most of this land being in private ownership, achieving buy-in, particularly in the early stages, may be challenging. • The character of the Core Zone is a little ill- Eildon and Leaderfoot National Scenic Area defined, which could create a confused identity for the Biosphere. Although the diagram opposite Langholm proposes a Core including the river Tweed and the scattered SSSI sites, it would be helpful to explore the possibility of using just one of these.
22 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 23 Spatial Option 4 The Tweedsmuir Hills
Overview Proposed Biosphere Zoning Strengths In this ‘currant bun’ spatial option, a number of large Core Zone • Covering the whole western portion of the Scottish designated sites of national and European importance Borders, this option has a distinctive character and Buffer Zone form or surround the Core Zone. Focussing on the identity and is home to several strong, engaged exposed uplands in the west of the Scottish Borders, Transition Zone communities. These attributes form a good starting the location of the highest hills in the region, the Buffer point which could be strenghthened through a Zone takes in the source of several rivers including Existing Boundaries Biosphere. the Yarrow Water, Ettrick Water, Manor Water and the • Encompasses some of the largest protected areas Tweed itself. The Transition Zone includes yet further Scottish Borders Administrative Boundary in the Scottish Borders, including the Talla - Hart river sources and is home to settlements of a larger River Tweed Catchment Area Fell Wild Land Area, the focus of an Economic scale in both the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Opportunities Appriaisal by Scotland’s Rural Galloway. College. • Includes the source of the Tweed and several of its tributaries. The environmental condition of these upland areas has a significant impact on the health of the river downsteam. • Few, small but strong communities within the Buffer area, with larger centres of population sitting in the Transition Zone. • Tweedmuir and the Ettrick and Yarrow valleys are Upper Tweeddale National Scenic Area Eyemouth facing competing demands on the land, including afforestation, wind-farm development, farming and community uses. A Biosphere in this area could Tweedsmuir Berwick help facilitate negotiation between stakeholders to Hills SSSI support development which is sustainable for the West Linton Lauder long-term. • A Biosphere could support the future economic Peebles viability of communities which are facing ongoing
Biggar Broughton depopulation. • Could complement the activity-focussed tourism Melrose Kelso offering in the Tweed Valley, providing a different Selkirk Wooler experience within close reach. Abington Tweedsmuir Jedburgh Weaknesses • Due to the proximity of the Core and Buffer Hawick Zones to the administrative boundary, this options extends into Dumfries and Galloway. With the presence of the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Moffat Biosphere, this is a potenital stumbling block from funding perspective. St Mary’s Loch SSSI • Of all the spatial options, the rural, upland nature of this one makes it most similar to the character of Moffat Hills Special Area of Conservation the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere. It may be preferable to pursue an option which has Langholm Talla - Hart Fell an identity more distinct from the Biosphere which Wild Land Area already existis within the south of Scotland.
24 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 25 Case Study: www.amazon-of-europe.com/en/ Case Study: www.biosphere-bassin-dordogne.fr Amazon of Europe Biosphere Bassin Dordogne Location Location Transboundary UNESCO Biosphere spanning Austria, Dordogne region, France Croatia, Hungary, Serbia and Slovenia. Character / Ecosystem Character / Ecosystem A catchment-wide Biosphere covering the whole of The Biosphere follows the Mura, Drava and Danube France’s Dordogne region, an area rich in cultural river systems and includes floodplain forests, river history and ongoing traditions. The catchment supplies islands, sand and gravel banks and oxbows. It is a water for the entire region and is the last river in biodiversity hotspot, used by migratory waterfowl and Europe where all of Western Europe’s migratory fish home to several species of endangered birds. can be found.
Size Year established Size Year established 631,461 hectares 2012 2,397,190 hectares 2012
Points of Relevance Points of Relevance • Trans-boundary approach to ecosystem • The Biosphere is working to change management • One of the few Biospheres to cover a whole river • The resources of the Biosphere are used by management, protecting this 700km-long ‘green practices which are degrading the riverine catchment. The Biosphere supports dialogue and many people, it is one of Europe’s main sites corridor’ from conflicting practices. environment, including channelling of watercourses governance of the area at the catchment-wide for freshwater recreational activity and features • Core Zone covers the rivers and associated and sediment extraction. Through the introduction scale, important for a river which provides vital extensive agricultural land. The Biosphere helps to floodplains. The Buffer zone covers cultivated land of sustainable management, negative impacts on ecosystem-services to the region. manage competing demands on the environment, and villages along the river, separated from the fish stocks, drinking water quality, forest heath and • Key issues for the area include water pollution including freshwater supply and agricultural floodplain by flood prevention dykes. Key activities downstream flooding are reduced. (eutrophication, toxic substances), loss of irrigation, energy production, tourism and resident in the Buffer zone include extensive agriculture • A major function of the Biosphere is to provide a biodiversity, loss of floodplains, invasive activity. (cattle grazing, hay making, organic production), training ground for the revival and modernisation of species, conflicts between water and land use, • The size of the Biosphere means it features several eco-tourism and the marketing of local products. floodplain management. disappearance of river-related cultural heritage. areas with different landscape character types.
Core Zone Transition Zone Buffer Zone
Above: Map showing the zonation of the Biosphere 5, Top: Fishing in the Mura-Drava-Danube Biosphere 6 Above: Map showing the zonation of the Biosphere 7, Top: Kayaking on the Dordogne River 8
26 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 27 www.gsabiosphere.org.uk Case Study: www.maasheggenunesco.com/en/ Case Study: The Maasheggen Biosphere Galloway & Southern Ayrshire
Location Location South-east Netherlands South-west Scotland
Character / Ecosystem Character / Ecosystem An agricultural riverine landscape which has been A largely rural Biosphere focussed on the upland areas shaped by the continuous interaction of people with around the Merrick, the highest peak in Southern the environment. The Biosphere includes the oldest Scotland. The area includes moorland, mires, forests, and largest network of hedges in the Netherlands farmland and river valleys and is characterised by a which create a mosaic of small agricultural fields. large number of small towns and villages.
Size Year established Size Year established 6,700 hectares 2018 526,888 hectares 2012
Points of Relevance Points of Relevance • An agricultural area which has retained its ancient • Through scientific research, modern agricultural • A local example which was initiated by the • ‘Proud Supporters’ scheme and ‘Certification hedge-laying practices to create a working techniques are being developed to complement Southern Uplands Partnership. This Biosphere Mark’ award are providing ways for businesses landscape rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. ancient practices. could be a valuable learning resource for the to market their products and benefit from the Woven hedgerows enclose fields for cultivation • In places, the river forms the boundary between development of a new Biosphere. recognition that a UNESCO association brings. and grazing cattle whilst providing a habitat for a to of the country’s provinces. The Biosphere is • The decline of traditional livelihoods, including • The Biosphere is facilitating conversations between diverse array or flora and fauna. helping stakeholders on both sides of the river to farming, energy production, mining and textiles has the forestry and agriculture industries at a strategic • The Maasheggen Biosphere aims to connect work together. had a significant impact on the area’s prosperity. level, with the aim of better managing demands ecological, recreational, agricultural and historical • The river valley forms an integral part of the The Biosphere is helping demonstrate the on the land. A new Land Use and Biodiversity values to create a strong sustainable tourism Netherlands’ water management plans. importance of a healthy ecosystem for the future team will provide-on-the-ground support to land offering. sustainability of local communities. managers, helping them ensure business viability.
Above: The mosaic of small fields enclosed by ancient woven hedges 9. Top: Hedge-laying championships in the Biosphere 10 Above: Cycling holidays in the Biosphere 11, Top: Local Businesses receive their ‘Certification Mark’ Award 12
28 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 29 South of Scotland Enterprise Tweed Valley Tourism BID, first 5-year plan Conclusions Established April 2020 April 2020 - March 2025 This paper set out to scope the opportunity of creating • Further dialogue with the Scottish Borders Local Nature Recovery a UNESCO Biosphere in the Scottish Borders. Council is needed to explore how a UNESCO Paper circulated Strategy Pilot: Northumberland August 2020 - March 2021 Through research, mapping and consultation, a Biosphere would relate to the Regional Land Use Meeting with the Scottish Border’s Council 2021 number of important questions have been raised and Partnerships, which are currently being trialled for Sustainable Development Group Destination Tweed possible opportunities explored. The following bullet a second time in the Scottish Borders. It would be Conversation following first year reporting of Development Phase points summarise the key findings and provide a helpful to examine the objectives and methods of SoSE funding for the GSA Biosphere* Nov 2020 - Nov 2021 each of these in relation to the other. A suggestion reference for future discussion. Initial community engagement to table spatial Regional land Use Partnership was also made regarding the possibility of trialling options and gauge level of interest Pilot: Scottish Borders • In consultation, the idea was generally met with components of the Biosphere model through the February 2021 - 2023 COP26, Glasgow 2022 positive interest, particularly with local councillors, Regional Land Use Partnership pilot period. November 2021 those involved in the tourism industry, conservation Borderlands Awareness raising of UNESCO Biospheres and Inclusive Growth Deal organisations and NatureScot. • Potential stakeholders, including many of the the MAB programme at all levels March 2021 - Spring 2031 consultees, may benefit from a visit to the • Many consultees had not heard of UNESCO Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere and Destination Tweed Biospheres, or had only limited knowledge and a conversation with the Management Team and Conversation following second year reporting Delivery Phase of SoSE funding for the GSA Biosphere* 2023 understanding of them. Amongst these people, Partnership Board. It can be difficult to understand April 2022 - April 2027 there was confusion around the difference between how a Biosphere affects day-to-day activity. Start of vision defining exercise with a UNESCO Biosphere and a National Park. Speaking to a range of people who live and work communities and stakeholders in an existing Biosphere may help bring this to life. • Those most cautious of the idea included representatives from the farming, forestry and • It would be useful to have a conversation and 2024 fishing industries. In order to progress further review after the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire and gain support, more information about the Biosphere has completed its first year of reporting economic and administrative implications for these on its current funding. industries needs to be shared. • Further conversations are needed to identify • Many communities and stakeholders are feeling parties who would be interested in leading, 2025 overwhelmed with the number of initiatives and supporting and funding the initiative through the investment projects that are currently active in nomination stages. the Scottish Borders. There is a feeling amongst Next Steps some people that changes are happening to them • The communication of any proposals should The time-line here illustrates the significant rather than with them, particularly around tourism. be handled very carefully from the beginning. initiatives and investments already present If the idea of a Biosphere for the Scottish Borders There is a desire for transparent and honest in or planned for the Scottish Borders 2026 is progressed, it will be important to carefully communication, with clear messaging around the over the next 10 years. consider the timing of these actions. purpose and status of UNESCO Biospheres. It is hoped that this report goes some way in clarifying A UNESCO Biosphere is a long-term • There is an opportunity to build upon the misconceptions which arose through consultation. designation, designed to act as an momentum of the ‘Green Recovery’ and of COP26 umbrella for shorter-term projects. in November 2021. There was a feeling amongst 2027 consultees that people are increasingly seeing the The number of currently active or planned connection between themselves and the natural initiatives may reduce capacity for environment, a value which is intrinsic to the discussing and progressing a UNESCO functioning of a Biosphere. Biopshere nomination in a significant way this year. However, planning in advance • Further talks are needed with stakeholders in points over the next two years at which 2028 Northumberland to ascertain their interest in a to begin the groundwork would enable us trans-boundary Biosphere. Possible contacts for to learn from this recent investment and this include Jane Rose, who leads the Economic experience. Regeneration Team and is the council’s lead for the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal. *Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere 2031
30 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 31 Bibliography Image References
Bell, J. and Sellars, A. (2019) Tweedsmuir and Moffat Scottish Government (2020) Scottish Biodiversity 1. Caroline Legg (2020), The Cheviot 10. Maasheggen UNESCO, Mosaic of Hedgerows, Hills Area Appraisal of Economic Opportunities. Strategy Post 2020: A Statement of Intent. [Online] Hills from Chirnside. [Online image] [Online image]. Available from:
Lemmey, Tania (2020) Connection with nature in the South of Scotland Enterprise (2020) Operating 5. Goran Šafarek, Fishing in the Mura-Drava-Danube UK during the COVID-19 lockdown. [Online] Available Plan 2020/21. [Online] Available from:
32 UNESCO Biosphere: Scoping the Opportunity for the Scottish Borders 33 © Southern Uplands Partnership, 2021