Month: November 2024

POP24 lands at Dynamic Earth

POP24 and Dynamic Earth offer schools a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn from environmental scientists, space experts, and conservationists

Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium, is thrilled to announce its participation in Protecting Our Planet Day 2024 (POP24), a landmark educational event aimed at inspiring climate action among young people.

POP24 is organised by the UK Space Education Office (ESERO-UK) at STEM Learning and in collaboration with the European Space Agency and the UK Space Agency, POP24 is set to take place on Tuesday, 12 November 2024.

POP24 will immerse students in a full day of interactive sessions led by top experts in Earth and Space sciences, with an audience of approximately 150,000 people. Schools and the general public alike are invited to book individual sessions or participate in the entire day, offering everyone a unique opportunity to engage with climate change experts and explore innovative solutions to global environmental challenges.

Throughout the day, the event will feature live sessions hosted from Dynamic Earth by Suzie Imber and Dallas Campbell, who will guide viewers through each activity and highlight insights from guest experts.

Anyone interested in joining can sign up for most of the day’s events through the POP24 website. Participation is open to everyone, not just teachers or students, making this an inclusive event for all who care about protecting our planet.

One of the day’s first sessions, Pop into the Ocean (9:10-9:50 am), will be presented by Chris George, Head of Learning and Engagement at Dynamic Earth.

This session will take place in the Discover the Deep gallery and feature Alycia Smith from the National Oceanography Centre, known for her groundbreaking work on “dark oxygen” with the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS).

Alycia Smith, who previously contributed to Dynamic Earth’s Growing Roots exhibition, will delve into her deep-sea research while joined by Emily Yates from Project Seagrass, who will highlight the critical role of seagrass ecosystems around the UK.

This session promises an in-depth look into how ocean life and conservation efforts help protect our planet, connecting participants with both marine research and the seagrass nurseries that sustain vital biodiversity.

Later in the day, Protecting Biodiversity (11:25 am-12:10 pm), presented by former Dynamic Earth Scientific Director Dr. Hermione Cockburn, will focus on the importance of biodiversity in sustaining our ecosystems.

The session opens with a recorded message from naturalist Chris Packham, who will introduce the concept of biodiversity and underscore its significance. Following this, the session will feature conservation efforts from the Knepp Wildland Foundation, Saving Wildcats, Trees for Life, and the National Wildflower Centre.

Each organisation will share insights into their work and unique approaches to biodiversity preservation, making this session an inspiring look at the practical measures that can help protect natural habitats.

The day will conclude with STEM Clubs Hour (3:30-4:30 pm), an after-school science club hosted by Chris George and Dynamic Earth’s Planetarium Manager, Dr. Alastair Bruce.

This engaging session will explore Earth observation through the use of satellites, explaining how this technology monitors environmental changes and supports global conservation efforts.

Dr. Bruce will introduce participants to the basics of satellite launches and their applications, using planetarium footage to explain the process.

From tracking wildlife and weather patterns to monitoring natural hazards, this session highlights how space science plays a vital role in advancing climate and environmental research. A range of interactive activities and videos will complement this session, making it an educational and hands-on way to close out the day.

Dynamic Earth’s Head of Learning and Engagement, Chris George, said: “We’re excited to be part of POP24 and to support students across the UK in exploring climate science and the role we all play in protecting our planet.

“POP24 offers a unique learning experience by bringing real-world science into classrooms, sparking curiosity, and empowering young people to think critically about our environment.”

For more information on how to register, please visit https://bit.ly/47waVJh and join the conversation using #POP24.

Eric Liddell’s legacy lives on

‘THE FLYING SCOTSMAN’S’ INSPIRING STORY IS CELEBRATED AT THE NATIONAL ERIC LIDDELL AWARDS

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, presented eight winners with the National Eric Liddell Award, with Eric Liddell’s daughter and Scottish Rugby Icon, Chris Paterson, in attendance.

On Friday, November 1, 2024, over 360 guests gathered at George Watson’s College for the National Eric Liddell Awards presented by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. The awards celebrated some of the outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to Scotland’s athletics, sports and community work.  

The Eric Liddell 100, which is led by The Eric Liddell Community, partnered with four other organisations throughout 2024 – Scottish Athletics, Youthlink Scotland, Scottish Rugby, and Scottish Disability Sport to honour individuals who have demonstrated the charity’s core values of passion, compassion, and integrity. 

Throughout the year, 100 individuals have been recognised with ‘Eric Liddell Recognition Awards,’ receiving a unique pin badge and certificate. Each of the five organisations nominated one individual to attend the National Eric Liddell Awards with Jamie Murchie from Largs Academy nominated by Scottish Rugby, Luke Davidson of Inverness Harriers nominated by Scottish Athletics, Orlagh MacIver from the Black Isle nominated by Youthlink Scotland (above), Andy Biggar from Edinburgh nominated by The Eric Liddell Community, and Ron McArthur, from Forth Valley nominated by Scottish Disability Sport. 

Additional awards were also presented during the evening by the event’s Gold Sponsors Optos, with The Optos Science and Technology Award being awarded to The Data Education and Schools Project, run by The University of Edinburgh and received by Professor Judy Robertson and Jo Spiller.  

Scottish Olympians, Eilish McColgan and Stephen McGuire were also recognised with Eric Liddell Sporting Achievement Awards, recognising Eilish’s participation in four Olympics and Stephen’s Gold Medal success in the Paris Paralympics this summer.  

Launched by The Eric Liddell Community charity, The Eric Liddell 100 campaign honours the centenary of The Flying Scotsman’s famous Olympic Gold medal in Paris 1924, 100 years on, celebrating the life, sporting and community service achievements of one of Scotland’s iconic figures through a series of initiatives, events and activities, with the final event of 2024 being the National Eric Liddell 100 Awards. 

The awards were hosted by Sally Magnusson – respected broadcaster and author of ‘The Flying Scotsman: The Eric Liddell Story’ – and sports broadcaster David Tanner.

Throughout the evening, Sally Magnusson shared stories behind the creation of her brilliant book on Liddell, ‘The Flying Scotsman’, nodding to important people in attendance on the evening, including Patricia Liddell Russell, Eric’s Daughter, and Sue Liddell Caton, Eric’s Niece. 

John MacMillan, Chief Executive Officer of The Eric Liddell Community, said: “The National Eric Liddell Awards were an incredible finale to what has been an unforgettable year celebrating Eric Liddell’s legacy.

“We were absolutely delighted to honour the eight award winners at the National Eric Liddell Awards and thrilled to have such esteemed hosts, along with the presence of our Patron, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, to mark this special occasion. 

“This is the first year of these awards, and we hope to make this a bi-annual tradition, continuing to commemorate Eric Liddell’s legacy.”  

In her welcome message for the National Eric Liddell Awards Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, said: “As Patron of Eric Liddell 100 it has been a pleasure to recognise and celebrate the life, sporting and community service achievements of one of Scotland’s and the UK’s most remarkable individuals, ‘The Flying Scotsman’ Eric Liddell.

“The 2024 Olympics took place in Paris, 100 years since his Gold medal success at the 1924 Games in the same city. This provides us with an opportunity to remember, and share, his remarkable story.

This celebration highlights not only his sporting achievements but also his life, beliefs, and the legacy he left behind, which continues to inspire people around the globe.” 

As the centenary year of Eric Liddell’s Gold medal win in the 1924 Paris Olympics comes to an end, the work accomplished in 2024 will ensure that Eric Liddell’s Legacy will live on for generations to come.

To find out more about Eric Liddell 100 please visit: 

https://ericliddell.org/the-eric-liddell-100/  

Pedestrian death on Easter Road: Dangerous driver jailed

A 26-year-old man has been jailed for four years and six months for causing death by dangerous driving in Leith.

Ralph Fairhurst was sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow on Thursday, 7 November, 2024. 

Officers were called to the fatal collision involving a car and a pedestrian on Easter Road around 2.40am on Sunday, 19 June, 2022.

The pedestrian, a 21-year-old man, was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh however he died on Wednesday, 29 June, 2022. 

Fairhurst, the driver of the car, fled the area and was traced by officers later that day. 

Road Policing Sergeant Paul Ewing said: “Our thoughts remain with family and friends of the young man that lost his life, and I hope that today’s sentencing brings them some comfort and allows them to move forward.

“Ralph Fairhurst showed absolutely no regard for the law and his reckless actions highlight the devastating consequences of dangerous driving and the lasting impact it has on those involved, along with their families and friends.”

Grangemouth’s just transition?

Workforce and community asked for views

Grangemouth’s industrial workforce and community are being asked to contribute their views on the future of the area.

A draft plan has been published as part of work to support a just transition to net zero and support the growth of the area towards a decarbonised economy.

The regional just transition plan is the first of its kind. It sets out the Scottish Government’s vision for the future of the Grangemouth industrial cluster and how the local community could benefit as a result.

By successfully decarbonising, Grangemouth can become a global leader in sustainable manufacturing and production, attracting investment and supporting both the existing and future workforce, and the community, long into the future. 

The Scottish Government has worked in partnership with the Grangemouth Future Industry Board to develop the Grangemouth Industrial Just Transition Plan which supports industrial decarbonisation, low-carbon manufacturing, net zero community wealth building and reskilling and developing the local workforce.

Proposed actions include:  

  • developing an industry-led technical and commercial investment strategy which includes a decarbonisation pathway to secure investment for scale up
  • creating a Grangemouth Industrial Skills offer to help tailor training needs for the existing and future workforce
  • improving the co-ordination of initiatives across the Forth Valley to ensure targeted interventions match needs
  • funding a recognised Community Engagement and Participation Manager as a first step in supporting the community to play a role in decision making 
  • establishing a Grangemouth Regulatory Hub to support a just transition and understand how regulation can unlock industrial decarbonisation

Acting Minister for Climate Action Alasdair Allan said: “Grangemouth has long played a vital role as Scotland’s leading industrial cluster and it is right that the area continues to help lead the way in our journey to net zero by 2045.

“Our first regional Just Transition plan published today sets out our approach to support the growth of a decarbonised economy that puts local communities at its heart. It makes clear our vision for the future and gives specific actions across a number of areas to help achieve a just transition for Grangemouth.

“The plan complements our ongoing activity focused around Grangemouth, including our support package in response to the proposed closure of the refinery and the work we are doing to explore low carbon transition opportunities for the refinery workforce.  

“We are working hard to secure a sustainable, long-term future for the wider industrial cluster and its skilled workforce, and this plan will be vital in helping us to deliver this.

“The consultation is an opportunity to help shape the development of the plan, and Grangemouth’s future. I encourage all who have a vested interest to participate.”

CVS Falkirk and District Chief Executive Officer, Victoria McRae said: “The voice of local communities must be heard in relation to the plans for a Just Transition for Grangemouth.

“As the Third Sector Interface for the local area, CVS Falkirk and District are pleased to be able to take forward, support and facilitate these important conversations. We look forward to hearing a range of views and we have opened a Hub in Grangemouth’s Town Centre to provide a base for this discussion and engagement.”

Syngenta Head of Corporate Affairs UK, Luke Gibbs said: “Syngenta is a large scale fine chemical manufacturer anchoring the Grangemouth Chemical Cluster. 

“We believe that the Grangemouth Just Transition Plan is an important part of achieving a sustainable future across the range of activities that together form the wider Grangemouth industrial area – fine chemicals, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

“As such, this consultation provides a key opportunity for companies in Grangemouth to input their views and highlight needs, and collectively achieve a sustainable, enabling, investable, and viable future for all.”

Join Unite on Thursday 28 November 2024 and help Save Scotland’s last oil refinery. 

Get your work colleagues, friends and family to come too. From the Workplace to the Capital, join the rally on Thursday 28 November 2024.

Assemble at 10:00 at Johnston Terrace (top end), Edinburgh, EH1 2PW and at 10.20 march to Holyrood for a rally with Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary. 

grangemouth-a5-new-leaflet-oct-24Download

Grangemouth Industrial Just Transition Plan – Supporting a fair transition for Scotland’s core manufacturing cluster – Draft for Consultation

Following the announcement of Petroineos’ decision to close refinery in September 2024, The Scottish and UK Governments announced a joint plan to secure industrial future of Grangemouth. 

First recipients of ‘Elizabeth Emblem’ announced to commemorate public servants who died in line of duty

Elizabeth Emblem recognises police officers, firefighters and other public servants who died in the line of duty

The first recipients of the Elizabeth Emblem have been announced today. The next of kin of over 30 former firefighters, police officers and other public servants who have died in public service will receive the award in recognition of their deceased loved ones. 

The Emblem was announced earlier this year to commemorate public servants who died in the line of duty. The Emblem is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.

Among the first recipients are Bryn Hughes and Paul Bone, whose daughters PC Fiona Bone and PC Nicola Hughes died in 2012 after attending a routine 999 call together following a report of criminal damage at a house in Greater Manchester. Upon arrival at the address PC Bone and PC Hughes were killed at the scene by an offender wanted for murder. 

Lissie Harper will also receive one of the first Emblems after her husband, PC Andrew Harper, died in 2019 responding to a call relating to the theft of a quad bike.

During the attempted arrest PC Harper was pulled behind the vehicle for several miles, and died of his injuries. 

The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer said: “We must never forget those who have given their lives to protect others in the line of duty.

“While families will never be able to replace their loved ones, the Elizabeth Emblem pays tribute to the sacrifice they have made.”

Firefighter Leslie Marsh’s daughter will be awarded the Emblem 75 years after he died falling through a hole in the first floor of a derelict church when responding to a fire alongside a crew from Central Fire Station on the 7th February 1949.

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden said: “We owe a debt of gratitude to our exceptional public servants who have given their lives in service of our nation.

“The Elizabeth Emblem will honour their dedication and I am pleased to see the first recipients named today.”

Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: “We will forever remember the heroism of these police officers, firefighters and public servants, whose acts of selfless courage provide an example to us all.

“Like Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, they dedicated their lives to the service of their communities, and it is fitting that we thank them and honour them with the Emblem created in her name.

“This will be a sad but proud day for all the loved ones whom these heroes left behind, and we offer our gratitude to them too for the strength and dignity that they have shown, and the immense sacrifice that their families have made.

“We also thank all those who have campaigned for this Emblem over many years to ensure that the courage of those who keep us safe is recognised.”

Seven Scottish public servants are among the first recipients of the Elizabeth Emblem announced today – including firefighters, police officers and an NHS nurse. Scottish Secretary Ian Murray says it’s a fitting honour.

Among the first recipients is Sally Taylor, the widow of PC George Taylor, who was killed while on patrol on November 30, 1976. He was attacked by two men dressed in prison uniform who had escaped from The State Hospital at Carstairs in Lanarkshire. Also receiving the emblem is Archibald MacLellan, son of Neil MacLellan, a Nursing Officer on duty at the State Hospital that night. He was also killed, along with a patient, by the two men who escaped.

Also honoured is Firefighter William Crocket who will be awarded the Emblem over 60 years after he died in an explosion at the Cheapside Street Whisky Bond in Glasgow that claimed the lives of 19 people on 28 March 1960. Firefighter Crocket’s son William Cruickshank will receive the Emblem on behalf of his late father.

The Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray said: “The Elizabeth Emblem is inscribed with the words  ‘For A Life Given In Service’ – and nothing could be more apt. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the seven Scottish public servants who receive this new honour today.

“I want to personally thank the families of the police officers, firefighters and NHS nurses who are recognised today for their bravery and service. Your loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the wider community and for that we will be forever grateful.” 

The full list of recipients in Scotland is below:

  • Firefighter William Wallace Crocket, Glasgow Fire Brigade. Died 28 March 1960. 
  • Leading Firefighter Dudley Hamish Grant, Scottish Fire Service. Died 19 April 1965. 
  • Police Constable Edward Alexander Barnett, City of Glasgow Police. Died 4 January 1970. 
  • Neil MacLellan, National Health Service. Died 30 November 1976.
  • Police Constable George William Chree Taylor, Strathclyde Police. Died 30 November 1976.
  • Detective Sergeant William Ross Hunt, Strathclyde Police. Died 5 June 1983. 
  • Police Constable Lewis George Fulton, Strathclyde Police. Died 17 June 1994. 

To mark the announcement of the first recipients of the Elizabeth Emblem, the first batch of Emblems will be awarded by His Majesty The King later this year.

The design of the Emblem incorporates a rosemary wreath, a traditional symbol of remembrance, which surrounds the Tudor Crown.

It is inscribed with ‘For A Life Given In Service’, and will have the name of the person for whom it is in memoriam inscribed on the reverse of the Emblem. It will include a pin to allow the award to be worn on clothing by the next of kin of the deceased. 

Chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, Chief Constable Gavin Stephens said: “When a colleague dies in the line of duty shockwaves and sadness reverberate throughout policing.

“The families, friends and loved ones left behind bear the enduring pain of sacrifice in public service. We owe them a debt of gratitude as we remember their loved ones, always. We recognise their next of kin and pay tribute to them.”

Families and next of kin of those who have died in public service are encouraged to apply for an Elizabeth Emblem. 

Further information about the Elizabeth Emblem, including application guidance and eligibility criteria is available here.

Three charged following Bonfire Night disorder

Three people have been charged in connection with offences that took place in Edinburgh on Bonfire Night.

On Thursday, 7 November, officers investigating the significant disorder in Calder Road arrested a 38-year-old man following an incident where fireworks were set off within a common stair in Dunsire House North.

The male will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Thursday, 5 December.

A 13-year-old boy was then arrested today (Friday, 8 November) in connection with vandalism that took place at the Macklin Motors car dealership on Calder Road that resulted in damage estimated at over £20,000 being caused to vehicles.

He will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 10 December.

During the evening of Bonfire Night, a car was observed stopping amongst a group of young people, who then took possession of a quantity of fireworks from inside the vehicle. These were then used to cause disorder and antisocial behaviour within the Gracemount area.

As a result of inquiries to trace the driver, a 40-year-old man was also arrested today and he will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 10 December.

Detective Chief Inspector George Calder from Edinburgh CID said: “We made it clear following the disorder that put our communities in a state of alarm on Bonfire Night, that we would be unrelenting in our pursuit of those responsible and these arrests are just the first of many, as we continue to pursue various positive lines of inquiry.

“You might think you have evaded arrest, because we’ve not yet come to your door, but we will be doing so imminently.

“The public still have a vital role to play in helping us identify everyone involved in the criminality that took place on 5 November by providing us with photographic, or video evidence, via our Major Incident Public Portal.

“Please submit your footage to https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT24S16-PO1.”

Letters: Call for Christmas Elves!

Dear Editor,

At the British Heart Foundation (BHF), we are calling for budding elves to spread Christmas cheer and lend an elfing hand in their local BHF shop.

We are looking for generous volunteers, or elves, to lend a hand  – whether that’s picking out Secret Santa gift ideas, to getting creative and decorating the shop, or simply being a friendly ear for customers during what can be a lonely time of the year. 

We welcome anyone who wants to help during this busy time. All you need is some festive spirit, a willingness to lend a hand, and maybe a Santa hat or two!

With no need to sign up to regular shifts, every hour will make a difference and raise money to fund lifesaving research, which will help keep families together for Christmases to come. So why not put your best elf forward and have a go at volunteering with the BHF?

To get involved, pop into your local shop or visit our website. There will be hot drinks, snacks, and a festive welcome waiting for you.

Yours sincerely, 

Jo Wright

Retail Volunteering Operations Manager at the British Heart Foundation 

KSB: Once in lifetime opportunity to tackle single-use cup waste and litter

KEEP Scotland Beautiful (KSB) has shared key points from their drafted submission to the ongoing Scottish Government public consultation on single-use cup charge – which remains open until 14 November 2024 …

OUR public perception data shows just how much single-use cups contribute to Scotland’s litter emergency – with 53% of people frequently spotting single-use (hot and cold) beverage containers littered across our country. 

This is why for the past seven years we have been carrying out research, delivering campaigns and testing innovative solutions with partners to tackle our problem with single-use cups through Cup Movement®. 

As an environmental charity we want to see more done to help people move away from their reliance on single-use items, and to reduce the valuable raw materials and CO2 emissions used in creating and disposing of them.

Paul Wallace, our Head of Operations, said: “Our key priority is to see a charge introduced. We’ve been pushing hard for action to be taken to reduce our consumption of single-use cups for many years and were pleased to see measures brought forward in the Circular Economy Bill.

“One thing we are sure of is that no single measure will be effective in changing behaviour on its own, but a charge will encourage people to reduce their reliance on single-use items and raise awareness of consumption habits and promote individual responsibility.

“We believe the charge offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to invest any proceeds generated to set up improved recycling infrastructure and support the development of effective and integrated borrow and reuse infrastructure making it easier for consumers and businesses to choose to do the right thing and help eliminate single-use cup consumption in most situations.”

In our response we are calling for:

  • The introduction of a charge on all single-use cups as soon as possible.
  • Proceeds from a charge to be used to make it easy for people to recycle effectively and/or to develop infrastructure which makes it the norm for people to borrow and return or use reusable alternatives.
  • The level of charge to be no less than 25p as outlined in the EPECOM report in 2018; that the charge should be consistent across all suppliers; and, that the charge be at a level that is visible to the customer. This is necessary to drive shifts in habit.  Additionally, we recommend that the charge level is monitored and reviewed regularly over time to assess its impact in levering behaviour change.
  • There should be as few exemptions as possible with regards to the single-use cup charge and so it is important to note that we believe exemptions, if given, should not be permanent and should be scoped out further once a charge is in place. There is an opportunity for proceeds from the charge to be invested in testing and trialling systems in exemption environments to capture learning and make it possible to remove the exemption at a later date.
  • We believe funds generated from the charge, and any non-compliance fines, must be used to support, as far as possible, the phasing out of single-use cups through the promotion of behaviour change, encouragement of reuse and the facilitation of recycling, where appropriate.

We strongly support the introduction of a charge; however, we have concerns about allowing retailers and businesses to retain the funds, as was the case with the carrier bag charge. While the carrier bag charge has positively influenced consumption habits and reduced the use of plastic bags, we believe its full potential was not realised.

Should proceeds from a charge be retained by businesses and encouraged to be donated to good causes on a voluntary basis, as per the Single-Use Carrier Bag Charge (Scotland) Regulations 2014, we recommend that the Scottish Government commits to an annual ‘temperature check’ evaluation review to monitor:

– Effectiveness of charge in driving behaviour change of consumers;

– Implementation by businesses and retailers and cost incurred;

– The number of cups charged for; and

– Where proceeds of the charge have been used to do good.

Additionally, we would call for donations to be made to environmental good causes, not just good causes, in order to support a move away from single-use cups to a more circular economy model.

We are concerned that the current capacity and capabilities of local authorities will mean that the number of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPN) issued will be low, as will payment rates, as we have seen with other FPNs for environmental incivilities such as littering and dog fouling.

You can find out more about the work of Cup Movement® and read our reports if you want more information.   

We encourage everyone – consumers and businesses – to have their say on this important issue. The consultation is open until 14 November and you can click here to respond to the consultation.