About this goal

A flourishing life on land is the foundation for our life on this planet.  We are all part of the planet’s ecosystem and we have caused severe damage to it through deforestation, loss of natural habitats and land degradation.  Promoting a sustainable use of our ecosystems and preserving biodiversity is not a cause.  It is the key to our own survival. (Goal 15: Life on land - The Global Goals)

In Focus: Langlands Moss Nature Reserve

 

Peatlands are a type of wetland which are vital to the environment.  They store carbon, help control floods, provide wildlife habitats, and hold the records of our past through archaeology.

Langlands Moss Local Nature Reserve (LNR) near Calderglen Country Park in East Kilbride is a lowland raised bog, a rare and important place which has existed for thousands of years.  It was designated LNR in 1996 and remained the only reserve until 2022 when the council declared 16 new LNRs along with an extension to Langlands Moss.

Friends of Langlands Moss Local Nature Reserve are a group of local people who came together almost two decades ago, over their concerns about the impact on the moss of industrial development surrounding the area.  The group secured funding from the Big Lottery fund and Scottish Natural Heritage to purchase materials to repair drainage dams and help stop the moss from drying out.  Further funding from the Renewable Energy Fund allowed the group to purchase resurfacing materials for paths which were installed by the South Lanarkshire Council Community Payback Team.  Boardwalks made from recycled plastic were also installed allowing more visitors to enjoy the space for recreation and environmental education.

Friends of Landlands Moss LNR, affectionately known as the Bog Squad, recently removed birch from the site.  Trees can soak up moisture from the site causing the site to dry out and release sored carbon exacerbating climate change.  The volunteers continue to work alongside the South Lanarkshire Countryside Rangers and other partners including the Butterfly Conservation, to protect and manage the moss.  They regularly hold events such as bird box installation, seed and tree planting and surveys.

Further reading and information

Goal 15: Life on Land
Goal 15: Life on Land - The Global Goals

Friends of Langlands Moss
www.friendsoflanglandsmoss.org

Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy
Introduction - South Lanarkshire Council