Scotland’s Forum for environmental organisations has announced the appointment of plant ecologist, turned network leader, Deborah Long, as Chief Officer. Deborah has extensive senior leadership experience in natural and cultural heritage in Scotland, as well as leadership of a multi-partner international consortium working in citizen science across Europe.
Announcing the appointment, Charles Dundas, Chair of Scottish Environment LINK, said:
Scottish Environment LINK exists to bring together the many and varied environmental and conservation organisations in Scotland to co-operate and speak together. Heading up an umbrella body like this requires someone with credibility within the sector, and considerable skills in strategy and organisation. I’m pleased to say that in Dr Deborah Long we have found someone who fits those requirements perfectly, and will considerably strengthen the voice for the environment in Scotland. I am confident that under her guidance the reputation and record of success which Scottish Environment LINK enjoys will continue to grow.”
Speaking about her new role, Deborah said:
I am so delighted to have the opportunity to join LINK at a crucial time for the environment, not just in Scotland but internationally too. The difference organisations can make by working together and maximising impact is hugely significant and increasingly important in today’s world. I look forward to working with the LINK team, members and our partners to tackle the challenges, make the most of opportunities and clear the hurdles to work towards full recognition of the environment in the development of policy and legislation affecting Scotland, its environment and its people.
From an early career in post doctoral research into landscape and vegetation history, Deborah has spent her career in Scotland interpreting and increasing awareness of cultural prehistoric landscapes in Argyll and then working with Plantlife to lead the team in native habitat and species conservation, policy and advocacy work across Scotland. Since 2016, Deborah has led an international consortium of partners from research, policy, scientific, business and eNGO sectors to demonstrate the potential for citizen observatories, specifically in the fields of soil and land management, climate change modelling and policy development.
Looking to the future, Charles Dundas said: The challenges facing the environment are greater than ever. The importance of working together to develop and delivery effective policy on conservation, access, environmental protection and rights has never been higher. With the appointment of Deborah as CO, we aim to extend our mission to enable our member organisations to contribute to better policy, to inspire the policy makers and the public to care for, protect and enjoy Scotland’s internationally acclaimed environment.
Contact details
Deborah Long, 01738 630804 0740 715304 deborah@scotlink.org
Editors’ Notes
(1) Scottish Environment LINK is the forum for Scotland’s voluntary environment community, with over 35 member bodies representing a broad spectrum of environmental interests with the common goal of contributing to a more environmentally sustainable society.
LINK is a Scottish Charity (SC000296) and a Scottish Company Limited by guarantee (SC250899). LINK is core funded by Membership Subscriptions and by grants from Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Government and Charitable Trusts.