The Scottish Government has pledged its commitment to EU-wide environmental policies in the wake of last month's Brexit vote.

Cabinet secretary for climate change, environment and land reform Roseanna Cunningham made the commitment ahead of a meeting on Thursday to discuss the implications of the EU referendum result.

She said: "The EU referendum result has created considerable uncertainty - but what remains certain is the position of the Scottish Government.

"We resolutely believe that membership of the European Union delivers considerable social, economic, environmental and cultural benefits for individuals, businesses and communities across Scotland.

"Our priority is to protect Scotland's interests."

Ms Cunningham stated that her preferred option going forward would be for Scotland to retain its EU membership, outlining the progress on climate change which has been achieved through collaboration.

She continued: "Scotland is still firmly in the EU and, as the First Minister has already stated, we are considering all possible options to ensure Scotland's continuing relationship with the EU.

"We will be doing our absolute utmost to protect our position as climate change leaders, to continue to play the role that we have been playing in contributing to EU-wide environmental policies, and to make sure that we maintain, protect and advance our own environment.

"For example, the current consultation on the scientific case to classify ten sites as marine Special Protection Areas (SPAs) is required by the EU Wild Birds Directive.

"I am very clear that Scotland, as a responsible EU citizen, has a continuing moral and legal obligation to protect our country's magnificent natural environment."

Climate campaign group Friends of the Earth welcomed Ms Cunningham's statement, but warned that there will be challenges ahead if the constitutional setup is to change.

Dr Richard Dixon, director of Friends of the Earth Scotland, said: "One of the strongest benefits of being in the EU has been the chance to work together on the big environmental problems that affect us all, from acid rain to climate change, and Scotland must work out how to continue to make a strong contribution.

"A vital issue will be how we keep climate change ambitions high in Scotland in any new constitutional arrangement."

Stuart Housden, director, RSPB Scotland said: "Over the years, the EU and its members have collectively delivered improved environmental standards, critical regulation applied across all member states, and significant funding for Scotland's biodiversity.

"This has included the Nature Directives, Environmental Assessment, agri-environment schemes and LIFE funding to support practical action.

"Scotland as a country with an enviable wealth of wildlife has benefited significantly."