These route maps highlight the journey we are on across key areas of sustainable development within the Scottish Parliament.
Invasive species and weed review
We continually monitor our landscaped areas for invasive species and stay updated on which native species should be encouraged and nurtured, and which ones should be removed.
Landscaping management review
We reviewed our landscaped areas to identify strengths to focus on and areas for improvement. Our overall goals are to enhance biodiversity, improve community access, and create spaces for protest as part of our upcoming biodiversity strategy review in 2026.
Staff native flower planting
Colleagues from across the Parliament, including members and staff, came together to support the annual wildflower planting effort in April 2024.
Volunteers planted the seeds in the landscaped areas near the public entrance. We also sowed poppy seeds for the Parliament's remembrance garden.
Volunteers were supported in their efforts by our contractors, Trac and Continental Landscaping.
Bat and bird boxes
In May 2024, an ecologist surveyed bat and bird boxes using a ladder and camera endoscope. They found that some bat boxes were used by birds, and all bird boxes showed nesting evidence.
Recommendations included replacing older bat boxes and reassessing the condition of all boxes in a few years.
Develop a programme to phase out disposable food packaging
Measures in 2024 included continuation of the disposable hot-drink cup charge to encourage colleagues to use their reusable cups.
Removal of disposable cutlery and placing collection caddies at each tea point to return metal cutlery back to the kitchen for cleaning.
There was also a campaign to encourage the use of reusable takeaway food containers.
Focus on climate-change adaptation training and engagement
“Climate change adaptation” means preparing for the impacts of climate change which cannot be avoided, such as preparing the building for extreme weather events and exploring the impacts of climate change on our supply chain and travel to the Parliament building.
Ensure any new chillers use low Global Warming Potential gas
Change gas cookers to electric when at end of life
Review catering provision to reduce high-carbon food items
Run project to explore if our borehole water can be used to flush toilets in MSP block. Borehole water has a lower environmental impact than using mains water
One-third of parking spaces in the underground car park to be electric-charging spaces