Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Kiri Walker.
Abstract
The presentation outlines Scotland's approach to water monitoring, which aims to understand the environment, ensure compliance with regulations, investigate pollution incidents, and support environmental development. This is achieved through an extensive monitoring network, standardized sampling, and hydrometric data collection for assessing flooding, droughts, and water quality. Looking forward, Scotland focuses on a long-term evidence strategy, improving data sharing systems, and adopting innovative monitoring techniques. Key opportunities include leveraging citizen science, integrating advanced tools like machine learning and modeling, and enhancing data accessibility to better understand and protect water resources while addressing emerging challenges.