Wild land (or wilderness) is currently the focus of renewed interest and the subject of a resolution passed in the European Parliament on 3 February 2009. The resolution calls for action to give "a special status to and stricter protection for wilderness zones in the Natura network." It also advocates a range of associated actions including mapping and restoration (re-wilding) of wilderness areas, sharing best practice and promoting the value of wilderness. This initiative is being taken forward by the Czech Presidency and formed the basis of a conference in Prague in late May 2009.
Against this background, a desk-based study on wild land was commissioned from Leeds University Wild Land Unit, including a general literature search and internet trawl. The study aimed to identify what 'wild land' might mean in a Scottish context, and how this relates to a range of European countries/ environments representing a diversity of wild land character and approaches to management. In each case analysis of the political and administrative framework of the wild land area; physical environment; socio-economic and cultural context; and wild land conservation/ protection framework will be required. Analysis and discussion of case study areas provide conclusions and recommendations for future care of Scottish wild land as appropriate.