The Ecocide (Scotland) Bill was introduced by Monica Lennon MSP on 29 May. Ms Lennon believes that creating a distinct criminal offence and increasing the penalties for perpetrators would reduce the likelihood of future incidents and help protect Scotland’s population, wildlife and ecosystems.

Proposals in the bill allow for both people and organisations to be convicted of ecocide with custodial sentences of up to 20 years and unlimited fines.

Launching the call for views, convener of the Net Zero, Energy & Transport Commitee, Edward Mountain MSP, said: “We all agree on the need to address the biodiversity crisis and protect and restore fragile ecosystems. That includes making sure there are fitting penalties for serious environmental damage.

“Introducing ecocide into Scots criminal law could send a strong message to individuals and organisations about the gravity of serious environmental damage and act as a deterrent, changing corporate behaviour and individual decision-making for the better.

“While protecting the environment is vital, it’s also important to ensure that any new measures strike the right balance - avoiding disproportionate costs for public bodies, individuals and businesses, or inhibiting development or infrastructure in places where it is needed and wanted.

“And before making new laws, its right to reflect on how well current measures to combat environmental damage work and whether they’re backed up with sufficient resources.” 

“Please share your views with us, to help us further understand the strengths and weaknesses of the proposals before us.”

The Committee expects to take evidence on the Bill after summer recess and report its recommendations to Parliament.

The call for views will be open until Tuesday 9 September 2025 and can be accessed here.