Scottish Parliament event marks our 30th anniversary year
SEPA Chief Executive Nicole Paterson
We welcomed guests to the Scottish Parliament for a special reception celebrating SEPA's 30th anniversary year. The evening brought together partners, stakeholders, MSPs, businesses, academics, environmental organisations and colleagues past and present.
It provided an opportunity to reflect on three decades of protecting and improving Scotland's environment, while looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities of the future.
The speakers at our event
Hosted by meteorologist Sean Batty, the event on 30 September 2026 featured contributions from Jackie Baillie MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Rural Affairs Gillian Martin MSP, and SEPA Vice Chair Keith Rosser, recognising the vital role strong partnerships play in delivering environmental protection across Scotland.
Reflecting on the milestone, our Chief Executive Nicole Paterson said: "The challenges we face today are perhaps even more urgent than when SEPA was created. Back then, climate change was understood, but it was largely discussed as a future threat. Today it is a lived reality.
"Yet the founding vision behind SEPA remains as relevant now as it was then. The understanding that protecting the environment is not separate from protecting people, communities and enabling prosperity.
"That principle has guided us for 30 years. To every colleague here tonight and to those of you that have worked with us and supported us, thank you. Together we made a lasting difference to Scotland."
Chief Executive Nicole Paterson with meteorologist Sean Batty and SEPA Chair Lisa Tennant