Launched by a group of ocean experts, the formal declaration commits local authorities to promote and prioritise ocean recovery during the United Nations’ Decade of the Ocean.

With waterways at the heart of Edinburgh’s environment, economy and community enjoyment, the pledge was taken by Councillors on Thursday (28 August) following a motion from Councillor Conor Savage.

It will build on existing partnership working to consider improvements to water quality, sustainability and marine education – including the opportunity for all Edinburgh primary school pupils to experience the ocean first hand.

Following the decision, the Council Leader will write to the First Minister asking the Scottish Government to consider national protection of coastal communities, while officers will look at how ocean recovery can be achieved under the Council’s existing action plans and strategies, which include the Climate Ready Edinburgh Plan, Water Vision and Biodiversity Action Plan.

Council Leader Jane Meagher said:

“As a coastal city, we all need to take care of the fantastic waterways that surround us. This includes the Water of Leith which runs the breadth of Edinburgh, and the popular and well visited Firth of Forth which is home to a huge diversity of marine species and is one of the best places in Scotland to see passing dolphins.

“It is important that we play our part in protecting the waterways in and around our city. This new commitment supports not only our net zero target and the fight against climate change but the United Nation’s vision to address issues facing the ocean, so we can continue to protect and preserve our rivers and coasts for future generations.”