Walking in the countryside can bring great enjoyment, whether wandering through fields and woods close to home, or hiking up in the heather-clad hills. Whether it is the panoramic vistas of mountains receding into the distance, or the textured mosaic of trees and fields around our towns, the scenery and the wildlife encountered while walking can be inspirational.
There is a broad range of issues that will impact on the outdoor environment, some may enhance it, some may be detrimental to its quality: there may be direct impacts from developments like quarrying and golf courses with housing, but there are also Government policies, like transport, energy and agriculture which can have a widespread effect throughout Scotland.
It is part of the Ramblers' charitable objectives to protect the outdoor environment in the public interest; to maintain its health and sustainability for future generations to enjoy. To this end we encourage our members, and anyone else who feels strongly about these issues, to stand up for what we value as walkers, and to demonstrate that concern in campaigning for a healthy environment, and landscapes rich in wildlife.
Here are the main countryside issues on which we have a view:
