Seòmar agus comataidhean

Two weeks ago, we took evidence from scientists on the climate and nature emergencies. They raised a number of points in relation to gaps in data collection and suggested that land managers, farmers, crofters and fishers could provide that information. I would be interested to know what your bodies do with local wisdom and evidence that is captured by people within communities.

Moreover, following on from Graham Neville’s point about blended public and private funding, I note that two scientists, one of whom was Dr Tara Marshall, told us that, when industries are decommissioning or changing things, they capture a lot of data that could be used more widely. Do we need to ensure wider access to such data to let us move forward in tackling the climate and nature emergencies?

There are two sides to my question: the local gathering of data and the data gathered by corporations.

That is great. I wonder whether David Signorini can answer my initial questions.

It is interesting that you mention Norway. Are you learning anything from the national parks in America? I believe that you met representatives from those parks at COP26.

That is really helpful. I certainly recognise that point in my community—I know that someone feeds in information about dead dolphins and porpoises on our beaches. However, it is about knowing the person to go to, and how to capture that information.

Does Andy Wells have anything to add from the Crown Estate’s perspective?

Could Graham Neville comment on accessing data from other organisations and businesses?

Danny Renton, do you have any thoughts on what I said about not being able to keep oceans in one state because nature will take over?

I thank members of the panel for their informative evidence.

Two weeks ago, we heard evidence from a panel of academics, who suggested—this follows on from what my colleague Rachael Hamilton was asking about and, to some extent, what Danny Renton has just said—that we cannot keep oceans in one particular state, as nature will take over. They also said that we need to look at the overall protection of ocean areas instead of focusing on just one area. I wonder whether you can expand on those two ideas from your perspectives.

As an aside, I say to Dr Rennie that I believe that the St Andrews Links Trust is using old Christmas trees to stabilise the sand dunes at St Andrews. However, I would be interested in hearing his thoughts on looking at the ocean as a whole.

Thank you. I want to move on to a completely different subject. Two weeks ago, Glasgow hosted COP26 and was the centre of the international world. I am interested in hearing our witnesses’ reflections on the impact of COP26 on Scottish international development.

I will explore a bit more the education side and the connections across Europe and the diaspora. Professor Pittock talked about the two-way movement of students and, when I visited the Scottish Association for Marine Science in my constituency about 10 days ago, I was very struck by the impact on its student numbers. The Law Society of Scotland submission talked about broadening the horizons of our students and there is also the research side. I would like to hear further thoughts and reflections on how the Scottish Government can work to improve those links. Perhaps we can start with Dr Marks.

Yes, sorry.