Sea Scotland 2025: Ocean Hustings
Sea Scotland 2025 will be on the 6th October at the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute.
It is 2025 and we are at the midpoint for two significant United Nations decadal events: for Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, and for Ecosystem Restoration. Scotland, like many countries, is committed to meet multiple national and international targets for nature, climate and sustainable development by 2030. Globally, targets for the establishment of marine protected areas are behind schedule and while on paper the Scottish MPA network exceeds 30%, management measures to reduce fishing pressures are still being progressed.
As we reach the halfway mark of this decade – described as a “make-or-break moment for the health of the planet” (Protected Planet) – we face an urgent need to evaluate our achievements, address shortfalls, and embrace transformative strategies that enhance marine resilience and biodiversity. To achieve this we also recognise that youth voices need greater representation and to have a seat at the table with the decisions made about the ocean they will inherit, therefore this event will be in partnership with Young Sea Changers Scotland (YSCS).
With Holyrood Elections in May 2026, there is one more parliamentary term to ensure Scotland is on the right track to meet and, where needed, exceed our 2030 environmental targets. 2025 is also a crucial year for the marine environment, as we are halfway through the UN Ocean Decade. The partnership with YSCS is also very timely as they are launching their ‘Youth Manifesto for Scotland’s Seas’ providing new insights into the asks of young people for the next Scottish parliament.
This autumn 2025, we will host Sea Scotland’s first ever Ocean Hustings, which will be an exciting opportunity to discuss with the main Scottish political parties on their ideas and plans to support meaningful progress for our marine environment and coastal communities. YSCS will launch their ‘Youth Manifesto for Scottish Seas’ at this event.
We also invite our delegates to enjoy a special “Words of the Wild” storytelling exhibition. Led by our sponsor, the Scottish Wildlife Trust, the exhibition demonstrates the strength of public feeling in prioritising ocean health.
