On February 19, 2025, the Scottish Government introduced the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill, aiming to enhance the nation's environmental protections. The Bill is in four parts - key provisions include establishing statutory biodiversity improvement targets, granting Scottish Ministers authority to amend Environmental Impact Assessment and Habitats Regulations, modernising National Parks' objectives, and implementing updated deer management practices. 

In section 1 the primary duty is to set targets in connection with nature restoration for the purpose of supporting and measuring implementation of Scotland's Biodiversity Strategy. This Bill has the potential to be a game-changer for Scotland’s nature. It's introduction marks a step toward strengthening environmental governance and ensuring the preservation of Scotland's rich biodiversity for future generations. 

A Bill is a proposed Act of the Scottish Parliament. It might be a new idea, or change or remove part of an existing law. A Bill that is introduced in the Scottish Parliament is scrutinised and debated by MSPs. Each Bill must go through several stages before it can be passed and become an Act.