A NEW strategy has been launched to make Clydebank a more pollinator friendly place by protecting indigenous bee and butterfly populations.

Since 1980 the number of pollinating insects in Scotland have declined by 51 per cent.

The Pollinator Strategy calls for the restoration and creation of flower rich habitats, greater use of green urban infrastructures, such as roof top gardens and the development and use of pollinator friendly pest control.

Clydebank MSP Gil Paterson told the Post: “Modern civilisation is destroying the bee and butterfly populations in Scotland, whether it is our building habits, use of pesticides or polluting the environment, it is having a dramatic effect.

“In nature, 90 per cent of flowering plant species have a dependence on pollination; worldwide, 75 per cent of food crops rely on insect pollination; Scotland’s economy benefits to the tune of £43 million per year in crop and honey, and the ecological function pollinators perform maintains balance our natural environment. The importance of pollinators is paramount.

“The Scottish Government’s detailed Pollinator Strategy will target all sections of society to combat the problem, from government, its agencies, conservation groups, farmers, land owners, managers, gardeners, agricultural businesses, commercial enterprise and the public of Scotland.

“There is so much to be gained in this plan, and even the simplest of pleasures, making our towns and communities bloom in colour and buzz with the familiar sound of our pollinators.”

Environment secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “Scotland’s biodiversity is one of our key assets, and the contribution the humble bumble bee and other pollinators make to this wonderful environment should not be underestimated.”