80% worry about local eco damage

Campaigners urge MSPs to take action now

- DAN VEVERS

EIGHT in 10 Scots are worried about the state of their local environment and have noticed eco damage such as nature loss and climate change, a poll has found.

The survey for charities' umbrella group Scottish Environment LINK found two thirds noticed climate impacts like warmer temperatures and extreme weather in their area.

Some 45 per cent have noted changes including fewer birds and insects, while a third say there is pollution in their area.

In total, more than 80 per cent had noticed at least one form of environmental harm locally. And 87 per cent of Scots feel coastal communities are very or fairly vulnerable to climate change.

Campaigners said the findings show people understand nature is "in crisis" as they urged action from the government.