This petition is for the attention of the Scottish Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary; Mr John Swinney.

The recent catastrophic natural disaster in Australia has caused outrage and heart ache over the world but ultimately the damage is the result of the impact we as a species are having on our planet. In order for change to be effective it has to take place immediately by each individual taking responsibility for their actions and making a conscious attempt to lessen their negative effects on the environment.

The only way that this will ever be achievable in Scotland is if individuals want to do it. As it stands a frighteningly high percentage of adults are in denial about the effects of climate change and the UK government's target year for the mass reduction of fossil fuel consumption by 2050 will most definitely be too late. 

Education is the most effective method for encouraging people to follow the correct path. If people are able to develop an understanding of the natural world from a young age then it is highly likely that an interest and a passion will follow. We want to see Natural History included within our education system as a compulsory subject as it is absolutely essential that the next generation of school leavers in Scotland have an acute awareness of their surroundings and a willingness to protect our fragile environment. If Scotland takes this step we can lead by example to the rest of the world and other countries will follow. Also with the abandonment of fossil fuels on the horizon and the spread of "Green Industry" this subject will lead to employment when the course content has been composed and has a qualification attached.

Natural History should include modules such as: Evolution, Mass Extinctions, Plants and Animals, Local Wildlife Identification and Behaviour, Environmental Issues, Conservation and Protection, Extinct Flora and Fauna and Horticulture. Also practical assignments would be essential; perhaps helping out in nature reserves.

This would be a drastic step in the right direction for the future of Scotland and hopefully; the world when the positive effects of the local change become evident. We hope that you will take this petition seriously and prioritise what has become the most vital issue facing humanity today into account when conducting course content for Scottish schools.

Yours sincerely,

Michael O'Donnell.