Four areas in Scotland have been named the first of 30 designated nature sites in a bid to reverse habitat loss.

As part of NatureScot's Nature30 project, four areas: Knapdale in Argyll; Loch Wood in Lanark; Loch Arkaig Pine Forest in Lochaber; and Findhorn Hinterland in Moray; have been named as places that will be safeguarded.

NatureScot, which ranks Scotland as one of the world's most nature-depleted countries, previously pledged to safeguard at least 30% of the country by the year 2030.

Despite there being about 2,000 protected areas in Scotland, covering 18% of land and freshwater, NatureScot says almost one million more hectares (3,861 square miles) must be protected in order to reach the 30% mark.

Researchers say doing so will not only preserve those areas, but will increase flood protection, reduce fire risk, protect soils, provide clean water and air, and capture and store carbon.

With more sites due to be recognised, NatureScot's head of protection, Ben Ross, said: "These Nature30 sites are an important first step in the mass movement we need to reverse nature loss, and to help us all to become more resilient to climate change.

"They can deliver high-quality nature, but also food, materials, energy and many other benefits to society, so we need to recognise, celebrate and reward them.

"Achieving the 30 by 30 target is hugely ambitious, but collectively Scotland can do it.

"We're excited to work with everyone who cares passionately about nature, adding to the great work already happening across the country, and we encourage anyone who owns or manages land that is or will be delivering great things for nature, to consider applying for Nature30 recognition."

Jonathan Caddy, chair of trustees at the Findhorn Hinterland Trust in Moray, said: "Nature30 gives official recognition of the importance of Findhorn dunes for biodiversity, and for all the hard work the FHT has carried out over the last two decades, mostly by volunteers.

"It will help to raise the profile of the important nature recovery work we have planned for the next 10 years, directly contributing to Scotland's 30 by 30 target. We are proud to have taken part in piloting this national conservation initiative."

Callum Strong, regional environment adviser at Forestry and Land Scotland in Argyll, said: "We are delighted to have been engaged in the recognition process of a Nature30 site. Knapdale, on the coast of Argyll, is one of Forestry and Land Scotland's most exciting opportunities for rainforest restoration.

"Nature30 land will join up areas already designated as (a) site of special scientific interest (or a) special area of conservation.

"Much of this area has been under restoration to native woodland for a number of years and Nature30 status will underpin the future value of this habitat and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts."

Victoria Connick, treasurer at Blackwood Estate Community Association in Lanark, said: "Our whole community is delighted at the Nature30 recognition for our local, ancient woodland.

"Being part of this international conservation programme helps us protect, monitor and enhance an increasingly rare habitat.

"We believe this is vitally important for effective, environmental education in Scotland."

Angela Mercer, from Loch Arkaig Community Forest, said: "Arkaig Community Forest welcome the recognition of Loch Arkaig Pine Forest as a Nature30 site.

"We feel that working as a genuinely collaborative partnership has enabled us to work at a far greater scale and deliver nature recovery much more effectively.

"Alongside developing a more resilient and involved local community, which will, in turn, ensure a flourishing and biodiverse landscape in the long term."

Four areas in Scotland named as first of 30 designated nature sites