Day: June 5, 2021

World Environment Day: Over £8m boost for international conservation

Threatened species such as whales, marine turtles and sharks will be better protected thanks to a boost of over £8 million for projects in the UK Overseas Territories, the UK Government has announced today under plans to tackle the global biodiversity crisis.

The funding will also help protect a number of rare species and vulnerable habitats across the globe from the threats from invasive species.

Over the next three years, 31 projects will receive £8.02 million through the Darwin Plus scheme for conservation of the unique and globally significant environments found in UK Overseas Territories.

Habitats and species set to benefit from funding include:

  • Threatened albatross species in the southern Atlantic overseas territories, Tristan da Cunha, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, through improved population monitoring
  • A number of species found in Cayman’s Sister Islands will be safeguarded from invasive species such as feral cats and invasive green iguanas
  • Anguilla’s shark populations, through increasing knowledge of their habitats and conservation needs, while developing local ownership of their conservation through greater community engagement
  • The Ascension Islands’ marine turtles through making improvements to their monitoring programme using innovative modelling techniques and new labour-saving technologies
  • Coral reefs in the Indian Ocean by helping small-scale fishers to sustainably manage these habitats on the island of Diego Garcia

International Environment Minister Lord Goldsmith said: “World Environment Day provides us all with a stark reminder of why we need to take urgent action to reverse global biodiversity loss.

“The Darwin Plus funding announced today will support the magnificent biodiversity hotspots that make up our Overseas Territories, which are so threatened by climate change. It will restore precious ecosystems, prevent the extinction of some of the world’s most wonderful species, and at the same time transform the lives of the poorest communities.

“Over the last decade the Darwin Plus programme has supported over 120 individual projects supporting conservation in marine, terrestrial and freshwater environments. The UK government, as president of the G7 and COP26, is leading the way globally in the fight to tackle climate change and repair the natural world.”

Professor E.J. Milner Gulland, Oxford University and Chair of the Darwin Expert Committee and Darwin Plus Advisory Group, said: “The UK’s Overseas Territories are home to some of our most iconic and important threatened biodiversity, as well as rich and productive natural resources.

“The Darwin Plus projects span the range of biodiversity from wetlands to whales, and addresses issues from controlling invasive thorns to tracking threatened turtles. So I’m really happy that, on World Environment Day, the Darwin Plus fund is supporting the Overseas Territories to conserve their precious biodiversity while also building a sustainable future for people and nature.”

Beccy Speight, Chief Executive of the RSPB said: “Our Government has an important role to play as we all work to revive our world, the UK’s Overseas Territories are home to 94% of the plants and animals that are only found on UK soil. But these amazing places are under threat from the nature and climate emergencies.

“Failing to act in our Territories would raise the real risk of global extinctions, so this vital funding will help fulfil our responsibilities to protect our precious wildlife, from tropical rainforests in the Caribbean to wind-swept albatross islands in the Southern Ocean.

“Today’s announcement, plus the UK Government’s additional £1.5m contribution to support our major partnership project to restore Gough Island, a threatened UK World Heritage Site in the South Atlantic recognised as one of the most important seabird islands in the world, will be welcome news to the local community and many individuals who continue to support this vital work.”

Last month, the Climate and Environment Ministers of the G7 committed to halting and reversing the loss of biodiversity by 2030.

In efforts to tackle the twin challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, all G7 members also signed up to the global ‘30×30’ initiative to conserve or protect at least 30 per cent of the world’s land and at least 30 per cent of the world’s ocean by 2030, as well as committing to ‘30×30’ nationally.

The funding being announced today builds on the £220 million for biodiversity conservation in developing nations, and the doubling of UK international climate finance, announced by the Prime Minister at the UN General Assembly in 2019.

Today’s announcement forms part of the UK Government’s commitments to drive international ambition on action to tackle the biodiversity crisis and work towards nature-based solutions ahead of the G7, the upcoming 15th UN Biodiversity Conference of the Parties (Convention of Biological Diversity COP15), and the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) which will be hosted in Glasgow later this year.

In the run up to the summit, the UK is focused on four goals to drive progress: securing global net zero, protecting communities and natural habitats from the impacts of climate change, mobilising finance and working together to accelerate action.

A full list of projects, including a number of small schemes, to be supported by the Darwin Plus programme is available on the Darwin Initiative website.

Health Ministers plant memorial trees to remember lives lost around the world

  • Health ministers and local nurse plant trees following end to UK-hosted G7 talks
  • Lasting memorial in Oxford Botanic Garden for lives lost globally during the pandemic
  • This year marks the 400th anniversary of the garden’s foundation and its contribution to scientific discovery in Oxford

Health ministers from across the world have come together in a tree-planting ceremony to remember those who have tragically lost their lives to COVID-19, marking the conclusion of the G7 Health Ministers’ Meeting in Oxford yesterday (Friday 4 June).

The Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock, alongside other health leaders and a local chief nurse, planted 10 Japanese cherry (Sakura) blossom trees – one for each representative of the G7, as well as the World Health Organization and global healthcare staff – at the Oxford Botanic Garden yesterday, complementing the garden’s already extensive collection of plants.

In Japan, the trees themselves are said to act as a metaphor for the finite nature of life.

Following the crucial UK-hosted G7 Health Ministers’ Meeting this week – which brought together health leaders from the world’s major democracies to agree life-saving action in critical areas of global health, including preventing future pandemics – the memorial acts as a timely reminder for friends and family members of loved ones they have lost.

As one of the oldest botanic gardens in the world, the Oxford Botanic Garden began as a physic garden – where healing herbs and plants are grown – in which medical students from Oxford University were taught how to identify medicinal plants in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: “As I work with my G7 colleagues to better prepare us all for future health threats, we must never forget the sorrow and heartbreak felt across the UK and around the world as a result of COVID-19.

“Oxford has played a central role in showing us the road out of the pandemic and their Botanic Garden now has a fitting tribute for people to be able to reflect and remember those that have been lost.”

This year, the Botanic Garden celebrates the 400th anniversary of its foundation and its contribution to scientific discovery in Oxford. The garden and its arboretum at Nuneham Courtenay have been an oasis for people to enjoy during what has been a challenging 18 months.

Sam Foster, Chief Nursing Officer at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, administered the first Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine to a patient outside of clinical trials, on 4 January (above).

Yesterday she planted a memorial tree on behalf of health and care staff around the world.

Sam Foster, Chief Nursing Officer at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It is a great honour to be asked to plant a tree to remember all the dedicated nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals who have cared for people with COVID-19 – including those who have lost their lives during the pandemic.

“We must never forget the contribution which every member of health and care staff has made during this time of unprecedented challenges for the NHS and globally.”

The 2021 G7 Health Ministers’ Meeting has been held in person at Oxford University – a global centre of clinical, scientific and academic excellence – which has been at the heart of the global fight against COVID-19, with world-leading clinical trials and its not-for-profit partnership with AstraZeneca on COVID-19 vaccines already saving thousands of lives across the globe.

The meeting took place over 2 days and provided a valuable opportunity to discuss global health security, antimicrobial resistance, clinical trials and digital health, as well as live issues. Engagement also took place virtually with the G7 Presidency’s guest countries: Republic of India, Republic of Korea, Australia and Republic of South Africa.

The Health Ministers’ Meeting precedes and informs health discussions at the Leaders’ Summit, hosted by the Prime Minister on 11 to 13 June.

Professor Louise Richardson, Vice Chancellor of the University of Oxford, said: “Oxford University is honoured to have hosted the Health Ministers and is very grateful for this gesture of commemoration for those who have lost their lives.

“Planting beautiful trees in our ancient Botanic Garden is a powerful affirmation of the health-giving properties of nature itself and will be a source of reflection for generations to come.”

Heart of Scotland Appeal teams up with Scottish Squash to get the nation moving

The Heart of Scotland Appeal, a fundraising campaign by national charity Heart Research UK, have teamed up with Scottish Squash to raise awareness of cardiovascular disease and encourage more people to increase their activity levels.

The Heart of Scotland appeal was launched in 2019 to raise awareness of the problem of heart health in Scotland, and to generate vital funds for pioneering research at Universities’ and hospitals across the country. Recently, Heart Research UK funded almost £300,000 worth of research at universities in Glasgow and Dundee to investigate links between COVID-19 and heart disease.

Coronary heart disease is Scotland’s single biggest killer, with lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of exercise directly impacting upon a person’s risk.

In an effort to combat the statistic that more than a third of adults in Scotland do not achieve recommended levels of physical activity, the Heart of Scotland appeal has teamed up with Scottish Squash to inspire people across Scotland to get more active.

In a survey by Forbes magazine, squash was ranked as the healthiest sport in the world. Forbes consulted with personal trainers, coaches and exercise physiologists, and ranked sports as being the ‘healthiest’ in terms of cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, calories burned in 30 minutes and injury risk.

Lisa Aitken, Scotland’s number one female squash player, said: “Squash is just a really healthy way to have fun. It obviously has the cardiovascular benefits, getting fit and strengthening the heart, but there’s so many people that try squash and say, ‘Oh, I was just having so much fun. I didn’t realise I burnt 700 calories!’

“Squash is for people of all ages, but I would also love to see even more young people get involved with the sport.

“Squash is one of the sports that can develop youngsters in so many ways. You’ve obviously got physical elements, like speed and strength and then hand-eye coordination, balance.

“Then you’ve got the mental aspects of it, having to problem solve and use your brain to work out the tactics. Squash encompasses so much for a young person.”

Dr Sue Robertson, who is the current Scottish Women’s over-55 champion, played squash as a child before focusing on a medical career. After 17 years without playing, she picked up the game again.

She said: “I was truly terrible when I started again, and for a couple of years just played occasionally.

“I was introduced to Masters Squash (for over 35’s) and made so many new friends I wouldn’t have otherwise met. I was the fittest and happiest I’d been for 20 years, because it’s so good for your mental health, as well as your physical health.

“It fits into that busy life really well, way less time than a good gym session, but it’s so much more fun. Sport is just so key to a happy life.

“I work in an admissions unit in the hospital as a physician, so I see people every day with heart problems for lots of different reasons.

“I know about the benefits of sport and the benefits of physical activity, and if we have a society that encourages and educates people on that, then we will have a healthier society.”

Amanda Donaldson, Senior Fundraiser for the Heart of Scotland appeal, said: “We all know that physical activity is beneficial for our wellbeing, both physically and mentally. Here at the Heart of Scotland Appeal, we want to encourage as many Scots as possible to get more active.

“We’re delighted to be partnering with Scottish Squash to promote the sport as a great way to get fit, meet new friends and improve your heart health, and to raise awareness of the Heart of Scotland Appeal and the life-saving research that we fund.”

Allan McKay, Director of Development at Scottish Squash, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Heart Research UK and work together to raise awareness of The Heart of Scotland Appeal as we highlight the positive impact that sport and physical activity can have on individuals’ risk to coronary heart disease.

“Squash can play a strong role in offering health, fitness and physical activity benefits to everyone in a really fun and social environment. By working closely with The Heart of Scotland Appeal we want to raise awareness to communities across Scotland of the opportunities to participate in squash and help to improve health and physical activity levels which can hopefully go a little way to tackling coronary heart disease in Scotland.”

To learn more about the Heart of Scotland appeal and find out about how you can help, please visit https://heartresearch.org.uk/heartofscotland/.

You can save 10% on your specially designed Christopher Kane Heart of Scotland t-shirt and badges using the code Squash at:

https://gift.heartresearch.org.uk/onlineshop/

For more on Scottish Squash, please visit https://www.scottishsquash.org/.

Education agencies to be reformed

Key national agencies Education Scotland (ES) and the SQA will be reformed as part of ambitious plans for Scotland’s education recovery, Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has announced.

The Education Secretary said the role, remit and purpose of both organisations will be considered, as well as their functions and governance arrangements. 

Ms Somerville announced the reforms as she outlined wide-ranging plans for education recovery in the first 100 days of government and beyond.

These include:

  • investing over £1 billion to close the poverty related attainment gap
  • recruiting 3,500 additional teachers and classroom assistants
  • ensuring every schoolchild has access to the technology they need to support their education
  • making free school lunches available to all P4 children before extending to all primary school children, all year round
  • expanding free early learning and childcare and developing the provision of wraparound care and after-school clubs
  • increasing the school clothing grant and the Best Start Food grant
  • providing interim support – including a £100 payment near the start of the summer holidays – for eligible children before the formal expansion of the Scottish Child Payment next year
  • offering a £20 million Summer Programme to help restore the wellbeing of children and young people, particularly those worst hit by COVID-19
  • removing charges for core curriculum activities and music and arts education
  • working with colleges and universities to ensure they remain sustainable and at the forefront of global education and research.

Laying out the Scottish Government’s visions and ambitions for education, the Education Secretary said the priority was to continue to deliver excellence and equity, despite the pandemic, with the health and wellbeing of pupils at the forefront of the plans.

This next phase of recovery activity builds on almost £400 million of investment committed in this area to date.

Ms Somerville said: “I hope this programme outlines our determination to deliver improvements with pace and urgency. I am open to considering what further reform is necessary, with the clear purpose of doing all we can to improve outcomes for children.  This includes reducing variability in the outcomes children and young people achieve across the country.

“I want to look at options for reform which ensure that schools get the best possible support and challenge to enable them to improve further and to do the very best for the children in their care; to enable them to focus relentlessly on providing the highest quality of learning and teaching for our children, and to ensure that those working in education outwith schools are fully focused on doing everything they can to provide the highest quality of support.

“I want to signal my intention to start this process by considering how to reform the SQA and Education Scotland. This will be a key priority for me.”

Ms Somerville said the reform plans would be informed by the findings of the OECD review into Curriculum for Excellence, which is due to be published on 21 June.

The EIS has welcomed the review. EIS General Secretary Larry Flanagan said, “We have for some time been arguing for reform of the SQA and, in particular, the need for a stronger governance model which would see the qualifications authority more accountable to the Education system and the profession, rather than to the Scottish Government or an opaque, Government appointed, Board.

“Our members have often found the SQA to be too remote from classroom practice and a significant generator of additional workload for teachers. Reform of the qualifications body should be matched by changes to the senior phase, which focus on creating time for deeper learning, breadth of study and parity between ‘academic’ and vocational’ qualifications.”

Mr Flanagan added, “With regard to Education Scotland the key issue is to create more independence for this body and move it closer to its role of supporting schools and teachers rather than being under the direction of the Scottish Government.

“Education Scotland should be free to challenge Government rather than being an extension of the civil service. There also needs to be a significant review of the usefulness of the current inspection process in what is meant to be an empowered education system.”

Which? reveals most common ways consumers are doing their bit to reduce environmental harm

The vast majority of consumers are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact, but many can struggle to take action in the areas that cause the greatest harm, a Which? study has found, reinforcing the need for consumers to be supported in making more sustainable choices.

The consumer champion surveyed more than 3,500 members of the public asking them which actions, from a list of 10, they do regularly that reduce their impact on the environment, such as limiting their use of single-use plastic. It found around nine in 10 (87%) take at least one action to explicitly minimize their environmental impact.

Which? found the most common measure consumers take is recycling, with 93 per cent of people regularly recycling household waste such as paper, glass and plastic, and four in five (80%) do it explicitly for sustainability reasons.

Around eight in 10 (81%) said they regularly use home products in energy-efficient ways, for example washing clothes on eco mode or at a lower temperature, with just over half (53%) doing this for sustainability reasons.

Three-quarters said they frequently avoid single-use plastic and non-recyclable products (76%) and switch off appliances at the wall rather than leaving them on standby (74%).

While reducing plastic waste and energy consumption will have a positive impact on the environment, the types of food consumers eat, the way they choose to get around and the types of vehicles they use cause the greatest harm to the environment. However, a lower proportion of people are taking actions that reduce their impact in these areas.

Only around two in five (42%) told Which? they regularly cut down or avoid consuming meat and dairy products, with just one in five (22%) doing this for reasons to do with sustainability. Almost half (46%) said they opt for public transport, walking or cycling, with one in five (22%) indicating they were motivated by sustainability reasons.

This suggests there are barriers preventing more people from adopting sustainable forms of transport and types of food, and perhaps more support is needed to encourage consumers to make these lifestyle changes.

Other common measures consumers take to lower their environmental impact include repairing rather than replacing items (72%) and borrowing or buying second-hand rather than buying new products (52%).

Which? also found more than half (55%) are regularly taking at least four measures to reduce their impact on the environment, while a third (32%) are doing six or more. Consumers aged under 55 more commonly report doing more to support the environment, with over a third regularly doing six or more actions to help the environment, compared to a quarter aged 55 and above.

These findings come as Which? launches a brand new podcast called “Which? Investigates” to mark World Environment Day, exploring consumer-related sustainability issues.

Hosted by science journalist & producer Greg Foot, the 8-episode first season of ‘Which? Investigates’ focuses on putting claims of sustainability under the spotlight. From plant-based food to plastic-free products and electric cars, Greg will find out what genuinely reduces our environmental footprint, and what’s simply green-washing, to give consumers the confidence to make better choices for themselves and the environment.

Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Rights and Food Policy at Which?, said: “Consumers have become increasingly aware of their carbon footprint, and while our research shows many people are doing what they can to support the environment, far fewer people are taking action in areas that cause the greatest harm to the environment.

“Which? is committed to helping consumers to adopt more sustainable behaviour and will continue to work with policymakers and businesses to ensure people get the right amount of support to make choices that are less harmful to the environment.”

Edinburgh aims to become net zero Capital by 2030

The Council has set out a city-wide approach to reducing Edinburgh’s greenhouse gas emissions as part of new plans being considered by Councillors to tackle climate change in the Capital.

It will call on residents, community groups and private, public and third sector organisations to work collaboratively to achieve the city’s ambitious climate goals.

Published yesterday, ahead of World Environment Day (June 5th), the Draft 2030 Climate Strategy sets a series of clear and practical steps Edinburgh will take to combat and adapt to climate change and reach its target of net zero emissions by 2030.  

If the draft strategy is approved, a twelve-week online public consultation will kick off on Monday 14 June, seeking views from people and organisations all over the city on the draft strategy and on actions residents and businesses can take to tackle climate change.

The Climate Strategy, which follows on from the Council declaring a climate emergency in 2019, focuses on creating the right policy, regulatory and infrastructure conditions in the city to support net zero behaviour change. 

It also lays out key areas where collaboration and partnership will be supported to deliver on Edinburgh’s climate targets. 

And it further outlines how people, communities, businesses and organisations in Edinburgh can be supported and encouraged to take climate action – and stresses the need for everyone to work together to invest in a better future for the city. 

The draft strategy, which will be discussed by members of the Policy and Sustainability Committee on Thursday 10 June, includes commitments to:

  • Establishing a powerful Climate Delivery Group of the city’s most influential Chief Executives to unlock collective action and develop a pipeline of net zero projects across the city.
  • Delivering a city-wide heat and energy masterplan by 2022 supported by a new strategic partnership with SP Energy Networks which will maximise the benefit of grid investment for the city and its citizens.
  • Bringing public sector organisations together to plan and coordinate the retrofit of the cities buildings. 
  • Expanding the City Climate Compact to support small and medium sized business to transition to sustainable businesses practices.
  • Running a series of citizen awareness campaigns on sustainability and working with young people to embed a legacy of change from COP26 later this year.
  • Creating EV charging hubs for public service vehicles, making them available to residents, where possible, at key times and in key locations. 
  • Test approaches to retrofit in challenging mixed-tenure and heritage settings, including Edinburgh’s World Heritage site.

Within the strategy, the Council is leading by example by committing to: 

  • Deliver an ambitious new net zero development at Granton Waterfront and around 200 hectares of new and enhanced coastal park in North West Edinburgh.
  • Deliver an ‘Edinburgh Homes Demonstrator’, using new materials and on-site building techniques to deliver net zero, energy efficient buildings. 
  • Prioritise investment in expanding Edinburgh’s walking and cycling routes to connect local services and amenities.
  • Scope pilot proposals for creating net zero communities in two neighbourhoods within the city.
  • Exploring the potential for ‘Nature Climate Bonds’ and a ‘Green Innovation Challenge’ finance scheme to support investment in the city’s natural environment and business transition.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Adam McVey said: “In the year that Scotland hosts COP26, the world’s eyes will be on Scotland, and on Edinburgh as its capital and we want to ensure this leaves a legacy of action to address the climate emergency.  

“This strategy will help our businesses, public sector and organisations and residents across our communities reduce or remove their carbon footprint.

“Importantly it also lays out how will come together as a city to collaborate on action at the scale and pace we need to get to net zero by 2030.

“This includes our strategic partnership with SP Energy Networks which will ensure investment in the city’s grid has maximum benefit for our infrastructure plans and for businesses and residents alike. 

“It’s only by working together as Team Edinburgh and with partners beyond that we can achieve the green future we need.

“This strategy aims to create the right conditions to unlock the opportunities that climate action presents, creating jobs and a more sustainable economy while we preserve our amazing Capital City for future generations.”

Depute Lead of City of Edinburgh Council, Councillor Cammy Day said: “Research shows that we could get over 60% of the way to net zero with actions that pay for themselves within seven to twelve years. And while we don’t have all the answers today, we will be relentless as a city in our pursuit of a better greener net zero future for this city and its people. 

“It is great to see that organisations across the city have their own sustainability plans and programmes of activity that are reducing the city’s emissions and that Edinburgh’s communities and citizens, and especially our young people, have a strong track record of climate action. 

“But we must all go further and faster – and we can only do that through a joined-up collective effort. 

“I encourage everyone in the city to take part in the consultation and to have their say in the proposals. Every positive action we take now will have a 10 times greater positive impact than if we waited to take these actions in 2030.”

Next steps for the draft 2030 Climate Strategy

If approved by the Policy and Sustainability Committee next week, a 12-week public consultation on the draft strategy will begin on Monday 14 June.

This will form the basis of a finalised strategy which would be brought to Committee later in the year alongside an implementation plan and initial cost analysis.

Alex Hilliam, Commissioner for the Edinburgh Climate Commission said: “The launch of the City of Edinburgh Council’s draft 2030 Climate Strategy is the start of an exciting conversation for the city as it maps out the decisions we need to take to help tackle climate change in the capital. 

“We know this topic is of huge concern to the people who live, work and visit this city and, with the eyes of the world upon Scotland  later this year with COP26, this strategy is an opportunity for Edinburgh to lead the way in taking bold action to tackle climate change and reducing the impact of harmful greenhouse gas emissions for future generations. 

“We’re pleased that this ambitious and long-term plan also recognises the role that tackling climate change has in improving people’s quality of life – from creating new jobs and boosting the economy, to helping reduce fuel poverty and inequalities in the city.  It is critical that the final strategy and the supporting implementation plan gives meaning to this ambition and turns it into a reality.

“We look forward to responding to the consultation and urge everyone to have a say on Edinburgh’s plans.” 

Guy Jefferson, Chief Operating Officer for SP Energy Networks, said: “We fully support Edinburgh’s ambition to become a Net Zero city by 2030 and today’s publication of the 2030 Climate Strategy is to be welcomed as it outlines what is required of government, industry and communities to bring about the significant change that is required in this decade.
 
“As the electricity distribution and transmission operator for Central and Southern Scotland, we take our responsibilities seriously and recognise that we have a key role to play in helping the city of Edinburgh deliver on its ambitious, but achievable, Net Zero target.

“We will be delighted to develop proposals for a strategic partnership with Edinburgh City Council as it is only through collaboration between government and industry that we can harness the knowledge, skills and resources we need to tackle climate change.
 
“Net Zero is now the prism through which we take all our business decisions, and that has been a profound change for us. It’s one of the key drivers of our decision to become a Principal Partner of the COP26 global climate change conference, which is taking place in Scotland later this year. By working with our city partners in Edinburgh we can deliver the cleaner, greener and better future we all want, quicker.

Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Liz Mcareavey said: “The City of Edinburgh Council is taking a leadership role in tackling the climate challenge. 

“Not only have we set an ambitious target to achieve net zero carbon by 2030 but the draft Climate Strategy is a clear and detailed document that outlines what needs to be done and how we all have to play our part. 

“Not one sector of the city can do this alone and this strategy creates the pathway to success. I commend the work done and look forward to engaging with the City of Edinburgh Council and the business community to ensure business makes a significant contribution to our net zero ambitions but also to take advantage of the opportunities to develop our green economy.”

Bridie Ashrowan, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council (EVOC) said: “At EVOC, Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council, we welcome the publication of City of Edinburgh Council’s Draft 2030 Climate Strategy, not only a key milestone in Edinburgh’s journey to net zero, by 2030, while also a commitment to supporting the development of thriving local communities across the city. 

“There is a recognition that every citizen, community, community or third sector organisation, and company, have a role to play in achieving Edinburgh’s ambitious climate goals is hugely important. 

“We welcome the opportunity for the voluntary and community sector to collaborate in the development and delivery of the strategy as well as empowering the people and communities they support to get involved, and champion where its citizens are already taking positive action. 
 
“We hope that the goals of the strategy will connect with other landmark initiatives, such as the actions and cultural change outlined in the Edinburgh Poverty Commission’s report, working to end poverty by 2030, while also enabling the developments in green skills and jobs, that are part of a recovery with wellbeing of people and nature at the heart of it.”
 

Military drafted in to help increase number of vaccination appointments in Lothian

Race is on to combat Delta (Indian) variant

As the national vaccination programme continues to progress through younger age groups on the priority list, members of the Armed Forces have again been asked to help accelerate the roll-out.

The Scottish Government is working closely with NHS Boards to ensure the number of appointments can be increased in line with national guidance to help combat new variants and provide protection to as many people as possible.

This includes military support and NHS Lothian and NHS Lanarkshire have requested this to enable them to boost their capacity to administer second doses alongside the delivery of first doses to younger cohorts.

Military personnel will therefore assist with vaccinations from Monday 7 June in these areas for up to five weeks.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has been involved in the vaccine rollout in Scotland, including the military, which has ensured more than 2 million people have received both doses.

“We remain on track to offer the vaccine to all adults by the end of July, but the emergence of the new variant shows that we cannot be complacent. That is why, as we have done previously, we have requested military support to complement our existing resources and to ensure we can get even more vaccinations into arms as quickly as possible.

“The vaccination programme is one of the main ways – along with restrictions and testing – that we are working to beat this virus and so it is crucial that everyone attends for their appointments when they are offered. That includes going for second doses as they are vital in providing greater and longer lasting protection against the virus.”

The Armed Forces have been working to support the rollout of the coronavirus vaccine programme with new deployments planned in Scotland and North West England.

Working together with local health boards and the NHS, personnel are part of Operation Rescript, the Armed Forces Covid-19 response. They are providing ongoing assistance to administer vaccines, provide logistics and planning support, as well as carrying out surge testing in response to variants of concern.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, said:
The Armed Forces continue to show their incredible versatility and flexibility, deploying wherever and whenever they are needed in support of this national vaccination effort.

I am delighted to see that across all corners of the UK, military personnel are working side by side with their NHS counterparts to help get the British public vaccinated as quickly as possible.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Matt Hancock said: “We have vaccinated over three quarters of UK adults with a first dose and half of adults with a second dose. That is a huge effort across the healthcare system and beyond – and I am incredibly grateful for the amazing role our armed forces have played in this.

“We know how effective the vaccine is, thousands of lives have been saved and thousands of hospitalisations prevented. These are not just numbers, these are our family, friends and loved ones who have all been protected. Each vaccine brings us one step closer to putting this pandemic behind us. So when you get the call, get the jab.”

Commander Standing Joint Command, General Tyrone Urch said: “I am incredibly proud of our servicemen and women who have deployed in support of the Department for Health and Social Care, NHS and Health Boards across the United Kingdom to help deliver the vaccination programme efficiently and at pace.

“We are delighted to be able to support and complement the incredible work done by health professionals and volunteers across the country and we will continue to deliver anything requested of us.”

As part of the UK Government’s response to variants of concern, 400 trained vaccinators from across the Armed Forces are available to be deploy when and wherever required. 4,300 service personnel also remain at high readiness and can be called upon to support with Covid-19 tasks across the UK.

This comes in addition to support the Armed Forces have provided around the world, including delivering vaccines to Ascension Island, Falklands, Gibraltar and Tristan da Cunha, and delivering other essential COVID supplies to India and Nepal.

63 members of the Armed Forces will deploy to Lanarkshire and Lothian from Monday 7 June for up to five weeks.

42 service personnel will provide support to NHS Lothian. This will be made up of 36 vaccinators, 4 registered health professionals and 2 command and control managers. They will be split into 4 vaccine support teams who can deploy across Lothian as required.

21 service personnel will also work alongside NHS Lanarkshire and will consist of 18 vaccinators, 2 registered health professionals and one command and control manager. They will form two vaccine support teams and will deploy across Lanarkshire as required.

Lothian MSP, Miles Briggs, said: “This support from the armed forces gives NHS Lothian a boost in the vaccination race against Covid-19, just when they need it.

“The armed forces played an important role in getting vaccination centres up and running and the extra support they are offering now is extremely welcome.

“The professionalism from NHS Lothian staff in the vaccination programme has been outstanding and if the momentum is kept up they’ll be on top of the second doses soon.”

New campaign urges public to Plant For Our Planet

#PlantForOurPlanet launched on World Environment Day as part of building back greener

  • New initiative to get the country planting more trees and flowers launches on World Environment Day
  • Drive to build back greener comes ahead of UK hosting global climate summit later this year
  • The Wildlife Trusts, Woodland Trust, National Trust and others join the UK Government’s call to get people, businesses and communities planting and protect nature

A new campaign aimed at inspiring the nation to get planting has been launched today (Saturday 5 June), helping us to build back greener and step up our efforts to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss.

The campaign – backed by green organisations such as The Wildlife Trusts, Woodland Trust, National Trust, Horticultural Trades Association and Royal Horticultural Society – is asking individuals and communities to play their part in helping reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and supporting nature recovery by planting flowers and trees, restoring community spaces and getting out into nature.

Whether it is planting a window box, flexing green fingers out in the garden or sprucing up a community space, the public are encouraged to #PlantForOurPlanet and share their story on digital channels and social media.

From planting flowers for pollinators to a tree in a garden, or wider nature activities such as building insect hotels, vegetable patches or simply letting your grass grow, by encouraging more people to get involved in the campaign, everyone can play a part in helping to protect and enhance our natural environment.

This campaign, launched on World Environment Day, forms part of the UK Government’s efforts to drive action to tackle the biodiversity crisis and work towards nature-based solutions ahead of several major international summits this year, including the G7 (which is being hosted in Cornwall), the upcoming UN Biodiversity Conference (Convention of Biological Diversity COP15), and the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), which will be hosted in Glasgow later this year.

Speaking on a campaign launch visit to ‘Walthamstow Village in Bloom’ a community planting group in East London, Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said: “The world has an extraordinary opportunity at COP26 to come together to tackle climate change and reverse biodiversity loss.

“Plant For Our Planet is a chance for the public to take part, planting flowers and trees, restoring a community space and getting out into nature. Through thousands of individual actions, we want to send a simple message – we are in this together for our planet.”

Green groups will also be able to nominate examples of outstanding individuals, groups or projects which showcase the benefits of planting and supporting nature – our “Nature Heroes”. These heroes will receive a personal letter from ministers to thank them for their efforts.

Other easy ways to get involved include joining an existing project, such as the National Trust’s ‘Blossom Watch’ or The Wildlife Trusts ‘30 Days Wild’. People can also plant trees through the Woodland Trust’s ‘Big Climate Fightback’.

There are a variety of nature projects you can join. These include:

To get involved and planet for our planet you can download the Plant for our Planet partner pack here.

Today’s announcement builds on plans to boost biodiversity, protect our peatlands and create new woodlands as set out recently by the Environment Secretary.

This includes aims to treble woodland creation rates by the end of this Parliament guided by the Government’s new England Trees Action Plan, and aims to halt the decline of nature by amending the Environment Bill to require the Government to set and meet a new legally-binding target on species abundance for 2030.

Hilary McGrady, Director-General of the National Trust, said: “The last year has reminded us how important nature is for our health and wellbeing. But just as we need nature, so nature needs us. And never more urgently than now.

“At the National Trust, we are establishing 20 million new trees on our land by 2030, including millions of blossoming trees, creating 25,000 hectares of new nature habitat, and restoring peatland across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Together we can make a huge difference, which is why we are delighted to support Defra’s Plant for our Planet campaign today.”

Joan Edwards, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at The Wildlife Trusts said: “The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world and so every effort is needed to help wildlife recover. We must tackle the climate and nature crises head-on by deploying bold and ambitious restoration projects on land and sea at a large-scale – as well as through local community-led action.

“Initiatives like the Government’s Plant for our Planet help everyone to play a part in bringing back nature where they live as are charity challenges such as 30 Days Wild from The Wildlife Trusts, which is running throughout June and asks everyone to do one ‘wild’ thing a day.

“Never has the need to restore nature and tackle climate change been more urgent – and people must be part of the solution.”

Dr Richard Benwell, CEO of Wildlife and Countryside Link, said: “Our planet is in trouble, but we really can dig ourselves out of this crisis. Each action that adds to our natural world – every bulb, sowing, and sapling – is a step toward restoring our wildlife and beating climate change.

“This Government initiative to inspire community action could be a tremendous boost, if it comes in conjunction with strong legal protection for sites and species, and new laws to improve the State of Nature. So, spades at the ready, everyone! This is the year to plant the seeds of a greener future.

Sue Biggs, Director General of the Royal Horticultural Society, said: “Plants, gardens, and gardening play a vital role in protecting the planet and help mitigate the increasing threat of climate change and biodiversity loss.

“As the UK’s leading gardening charity we continue to support millions of members, gardeners, and visitors in finding ever more sustainable ways to garden and promote nature-based solutions that help combat climate change. I would strongly urge everyone to Plant for our Planet and play their part in making the UK a greener and more beautiful place.”

James Barnes, Chairman of the Horticultural Trades Association said: “This initiative is a great way to harness the power of Britain’s gardeners into a movement which puts the benefits of protecting our natural environment to the fore.

“With three million new gardeners joining since lockdown last year, alongside the 22million who already take part in the country’s biggest hobby, the HTA is urging the great British public to seek advice and planting ideas from garden centres, nurseries and reputable online retailers and plant for the planet.”

  • To hear more about the campaign, share your activities, or to nominate a “Nature Hero”, please contact plantforourplanet@defra.gov.uk
  • To get involved and plant for our planet you can download the Plant for our Planet partner pack here.

Free school meals for all P4 & 5s

More than 90,000 primary school pupils will be entitled to new free school meal support in term time.

The Scottish Government and local authority partners have reached agreement to introduce universal free school lunches for primary 4 and 5 children and targeted support during school holidays for all eligible primary and secondary children and young people.

The £28 million commitment will deliver free school lunches during term time for P4 children by August 2021 and to P5 children by January 2022

A further £21.75 million will provide targeted free school meal support during school holidays in 2021-22. This will start in July for around 145,000 primary and secondary children and young people from low income households.

Councils will determine what approach in school holidays meets local needs and circumstances, which may include the provision of direct payments, vouchers or food parcels. 

Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Free school meals are a vital support to thousands of children and young people across the country – ensuring that children have access to a free, healthy and nutritious meal every day they are in school and are ready to engage in learning. 

“The provision of £49.75 million in new funding to local authorities demonstrates our support for the health and wellbeing of children and young people and our commitment to reduce the impact of poverty on thousands of families across the country.”

Councillor Stephen McCabe of COSLA said: “Councils across Scotland have long been committed to delivering healthy free school meals – to eligible children and young people.

“We are pleased that, in partnership with Scottish Government, this commitment can be further expanded upon by providing free school meals to all Primary 4s in August 2021 and Primary 5s in the later part of the academic year.

“Local authorities will continue to work hard to ensure that children and young people have access to healthy and nourishing meals so that they are fully able to learn, play, and engage with their peers and communities.”

Attempted murder at Fort Kinnaird: Can you help?

Detectives are appealing for information following an attempted murder which occurred in the Fort Kinnaird area of Edinburgh on Thursday (3 June).

Around 5pm a group of four men were standing at Fort Kinnaird when they were approached by two men on a motorcycle.

A short chase took place and one of the men was stopped nearby on Whitehill Road, where the pillion passenger on the bike assaulted him with a bladed weapon.

The two suspects then made off along Whitehill Road.

The 31-year-old victim was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh with serious injuries, where he remains in a critical but stable condition.

The suspects are described as follows – driver dressed in all black clothing with a black helmet while the passenger was wearing a jacket with a red body and grey sleeves, with a dark cap and a snood/ dark face covering. They were travelling on a distinctive off road/trials/scrambler bike which was mainly blue in colour, with red and white livery.

Detective Inspector Clark Martin from Gayfield CID said: “We believe this incident was targeted towards the group of men standing at Fort Kinnaird and the victim has been left with extremely serious injuries.

“I am appealing for anyone who witnessed what happened, or noticed the suspects in the area, to please come forward.

“The motorcycle they were using was very distinctive and I would also urge anyone who thinks they may have seen it in the Edinburgh area on Thursday to pass this information on to the police.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland through 101, quoting incident number 2632 of Thursday, 3 June. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”