This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Century of conservation celebrated
16/06/2004
RSPB Scotland will host a Centenary Reception this evening to celebrate 100 years of conservation.
The Deputy Environment Minister Allan Wilsonwill mark the anniversary with the launch of the Goldcrest Award for the most outstanding contribution to the development of environmental policy in Scotland post devolution.
Mr Wilson said:
"Scotland's natural heritage is one of our country's most important assets.
The Executive seeks to safeguard that asset for the treasures it offers both residents and visitors alike.
"Our commitment to natural heritage was demonstrated last month with the passage through parliament of Scotland's first Nature Conservation Bill.
This was supported by the launch, also last month, of Scotland's Biodiversity Strategy.
"Just as the RSPB and others involved in nature conservation have worked with us in devising the Bill and Strategy, we look forward to working with these organisations in turning these words into positive action.
"The measures we have put in place rely on individuals to take action in nature conservation. I stated in Parliament that conservation cannot be imposed from on high. It must be build from below, involve rather than instruct.
"Tonight's Goldcrest Award recognises the valuable work undertaken by an army of individuals over the past century in preserving birdlife in Scotland. While I invite nominations for the individual who has achieved the most for nature conservation in Scotland since devolution in 1999, I congratulate everyone who has played their part in ensuring that the diversity of our natural heritage is conserved."
The event will take place in the Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle at 6.30pm tonight, Wednesday, June 16. Some 200 delegates, including 14 MSPs will attend the event.
Nominations are invited for the Goldcrest Award for the most outstanding contribution to the development of environmental policy in Scotland, post devolution. The award is part of the Going for Gold awards programme organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds to celebrate 100 years of working in Scotland. The awards seek to recognise the achievements of people who have made major contributions to conservation over the last century. All awards will be presented at a prestigious ceremony in Glasgow on November 30, 2004.