What steps it is taking to make the parliamentary estate more pollinator-friendly, and whether these steps include (a) planting a more dive…

Supporting Pollinators and Biodiversity at Holyrood The Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body (SPCB) is committed to enhancing biodiversity and supporting pollinators across the parliamentary estate. These are the key initiatives that are currently in place or planned: Biodiversity Policy and Route MapWe have a Biodiversity Policy and Route Map. Facilities Management works with the Sustainability Team to ensure best practices are followed.Monitoring and EvidenceFrom 2025, we will conduct biodiversity surveys twice a year to monitor progress and guide future actions. This will help us track our efforts and make informed decisions.Landscaping and MaintenanceOur landscaping avoids pesticides and includes regular checks for invasive species. These efforts are managed through our Facilities Management contract to maintain a healthy ecosystem.Pollinator-Friendly PlantingEach year, we plant a variety of wildflowers to support pollinators. This has increased the variety and number of pollinator-friendly plants across the estate, contributing to a healthier environment.Partnership and EngagementWe work with internal teams and external organizations, including community benefit clauses in our contracts, to support biodiversity. This collaborative approach ensures a broad impact.Wildlife Support MeasuresRegular bat surveys are conducted, and bird and bat boxes have been installed in suitable locations to support local wildlife.Public Engagement and EducationInformation boards are placed in landscaped areas, and we provide opportunities for public engagement and education on biodiversity. This helps raise awareness and encourages community involvement. Encouraging Nature Across the Parliamentary Estate To further support biodiversity, we have implemented several initiatives: LandscapingWe have incorporated native species of trees, shrubs, and meadow grass. This landscaping approach helps reduce carbon footprints, manage groundwater movements, and encourage biodiversity, including bees, butterflies, insects, and birds.Management PracticesWe maintain a pesticide and peat-free regime to ensure a sustainable environment.The Butterfly Project/Square Metre for ButterfliesWe are working on the recovery of the Northern Brown Argus butterfly at Holyrood, contributing to the conservation of this species.Biodiversity SurveysWe conduct regular biodiversity surveys and review bird and bat boxes to ensure they are effective.BeehivesThe Scottish Parliament was the first legislature in the UK to have beehives, showing our commitment to supporting pollinators. Please refer to our response under ‘c’ below for the current position relating to beehives on the parliamentary estateWaste and RecyclingWe aim to be a Zero Waste Parliament, reducing our environmental impact through effective waste management practices.Sustainable ProcurementWe minimise ecological impacts through sustainable procurement practices, ensuring our operations are environmentally responsible. We are committed to tackling climate change and reducing our environmental impact. Recently, we planted fifteen new trees around the Parliament perimeter. Soft landscaping, such as trees, grasses, and shrubs, supports biodiversity and reduces groundwater movement to minimise erosion.No pesticides, fertilisers, or peat are used onsite by our contractors. Review of On-Site Beekeeping following recent changes to guidance As the current beekeeping contract neared its end in early 2025, Facilities Management and Procurement reviewed the role of managed beehives on the estate, following guidance from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. This review involved engaging with stakeholders to determine the best approach. The existing contract was extended by one year to allow time fo