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British camping brand Vango has commissioned a study in cooperation with the University of Glasgow that names 10 well-loved Scottish camping areas that could be at risk due to climate change. The University of Glasgow undertook a Scotland-wide analysis of coastal erosion risk (www.dynamicoast.com), including identifying more than ten coastal sites that will soon shrink dramatically through the impacts of sea level rise, strong wave action, and coastal flooding – Vango then produced a map to highlight the issue. Vango said the map is part of its ongoing commitment to advancing the UK’s sustainability agenda, helping to raise awareness around the ongoing issue of land erosion driven by climate change. It is estimated that all of the featured locations will be under increased threat from rising sea levels and extreme weather conditions by 2050 and beyond.

Prof. Larissa Naylor, Professor of Geomorphology and Environmental Geography at the University of Glasgow, commented: “Even with Net Zero our sea levels will continue to rise and continue to erode key coastal assets like wild camping beaches and critical transport infrastructure. It is thus imperative that we act now to, in the first instance, achieve Net Zero (and beyond) rapidly and secondly, adapt society to better live with coastal climate change impacts like flooding and erosion.”

Larissa added, “The map is just a snapshot of some of the locations under threat - the tip of the iceberg. Many more wild camping sites will shrink in area or disappear in the coming decades, as sea level continues to rise and climate change impacts accelerate.”

Rob Birrell, Vango’s marketing director, added: “Scotland is famous for its scenic wild places and uplifting sense of remoteness, but sadly some of our most beautiful wild camping spots and beaches are seriously at risk and shrinking. By sharing this new map, it is our hope that we will spotlight a very real concern about Scotland’s depleting outdoor space - and, ultimately, drive people and politicians to take action now.”