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Scotland recycling less waste and sending more to incineration, latest SEPA stats reveal

New statistics reveal that Scotland recycled less and sent more waste to incineration in 2021 than 2018. SEPA did not publish complete datasets for 2019 or 2020 because of the cyber-attack on the organisation.

The total amount of waste fell, probably in response to the fall in economic activity during the pandemic.

Waste statistics published today (28 March) by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) show that in 2021:

+ The total amount of waste generated in Scotland was 9.6 million tonnes;

+ 56% of this waste was recycled, a fall from 2018 when 60% of waste recycled;

+ This reduction means almost 1.5 million tonnes less of Scottish waste was recycled;

+ Incineration rose 14.6% compared to 2019 and the amount of waste burned tripled over 10 years

+ The amount of waste sent to landfill also increased by 0.4% from 2019.

Kim Pratt, circular economy campaigner at Friends of the Earth Scotland said: “This is the first time in three years that we have seen a snapshot of Scotland’s waste trends and the picture is extremely concerning.

“A fall in economic activity in the pandemic may have led to a short term drop in the amount of waste Scotland produces but this is likely to rise again once activity resumes.

“Despite the pandemic reducing overall waste levels, the amount of waste burned continues to rise and has tripled in just ten years. The moratorium on new incineration was a vital first step to reverse this trend but these statistics show it is not enough and must now be backed up with a ban on burning plastics and a phase out plan for existing incinerators. However, rather than closing incinerators, projects which already had planning permission are allowed to start operating and are receiving funding. This needs to stop now.

“Scotland must transform the way it uses materials and waste less to reduce our impact on the planet. It’s vital more is done to prevent valuable reusable or recyclable materials burning in incinerators or ending up in landfill. Ensuring waste is not created in the first place is the best way to reduce its environmental impacts, and if waste is created, we must recycle as much of it as possible.”

The Scottish Government published the second and final part of its independent review on incineration in February 2023. The review recommended that the Scottish Government should introduce a ban on burning plastics by 2030. The Scottish Government has not yet responded to these recommendations.

The NESS incinerator in Aberdeen was given Scottish Government funding in November 2022, six months after the first independent review on incineration was published. Despite construction problems and local communities voicing concern, the NESS incinerator begun burning waste in 2023.

Earlier this month it was revealed that, rather than treating the toxic bottom ash produced by the incinerator locally as planned, the operators are sending it over 100 miles to Fife.

Briggs: NHS Lothian A&E Waiting Times showing no sign of improving

Date ↓	% within 4 hours
19 March 2023	60
20 March 2022	61.5
21 March 2021	84.1
22 March 2020	94.6
24 March 2019	86.6

Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP for Lothian Miles Briggs said: “The figures are an embarrassment for Humza Yousaf and are indicative of the extent to which he failed in his role as Heath Secretary.

“It is completely unacceptable that in the space of 3 years the percentage seen withing 4 hours dropped almost 35% from 94.6% to 60% in Lothian.

“Despite being well into the swing of Spring, the figures for Lothian are now worse than at the peak winter times.

“In taking his eye off the ball and doing his best to appease the independence hardliners during the leadership contest, Lothian and Scotland’s figures have deteriorated further.

“While as Health Secretary he was clearly unable to find a solution to the mess he created, one of his first priorities as the new First Minister must be to get on top of the situation and find someone who can clear up the disaster that he presided over.”

Easter Shenanigans at Lauriston Castle!

As the spring sunshine approaches, Lauriston Castle has launched an action-packed season of activities and events for all the family.

Members of Edinburgh Living History got into the spirit ahead of the Easter Shenanigans planned for the weekend and rolled some easter eggs they had painted.

Edinburgh Living History are our multi award-winning team, who interpret the history of the castle in a variety of entertaining ways in Edwardian costume – bringing to life the history of the house. On Sunday 2 April visitors can walk through the Castle on a special tour watching the performance unfold.

Elsewhere, running from the Castle Courtyard, there are free drop-in events all day including an Easter Trail with a chocolate surprise at the end, our Egg and Spoon Race, which you can bring your own hard-boiled egg to decorate and then race in, or egg rolling, with a prize for the egg that rolls the furthest.

Visitors can also make their own Easter crown, flower or pinwheel and share online using our giant frame! You can also craft a clay spring tile, paint a cermaic tile, make papier mâché eggs or explore with one of our garden activity books.

This year’s lecture series kicks off in April and across 15 mornings explores an incredible range of subjects with experts in their field covering topics from Earth Day and Scottish Art in the 1920s to Occupations of Old and Mary Queen of Scots.

Family days out come in the form of Castle Bug Tour, World Bee Day and the return of the popular Lauriston’s Castle Teddy Bear’s Picnic.

Enjoy a special evening screening of Downton Abbey: A New Era at Lauriston Castle on Saturday 10 June as part of the atmosphere series of films at the Castle.

The Castle’s costumed performances are popular. This year spring sees A Lauriston Castle Murder Mystery or you can drop into the lives of the people in the Castle in 1911 as members of the household debate the issues involved in the campaigns for Votes for Women in A Guid Caus. In September, in Our Soldiers Need You, it’s 1916 and a member of the local fundraising committee has come to the castle to speak to everyone about how they can help with the War effort.

A series of workshops for adults and families draw on the seasons and the setting for their inspiration, and this year visitors can try their hands at Printmaking Inspired by Nature, making Summer Mosaics and many more covering expressive drawing, painting and sketching.

With over 50 events from April to September varying from workshops to murder mystery nights, Lauriston Castle has many reasons to return throughout the season.

Councillor Val Walker, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “As the days get longer and the Easter holidays approach, many families might be wondering how best to keep boredom at bay. Lauriston Castle, with over 50 events, workshops, talks and tours, is a one-stop-shop for those looking for something new to do over the coming months.

“For more than 400 years, captivating Lauriston Castle has overlooked the River Forth at Silverknowes, near Cramond.

“Set among 30 acres of woodland and beautiful gardens, the Castle is a special place to visit whether to explore the beautiful Edwardian interior, having a picnic or taking part in one of the many events, discussions or workshops programmed across the coming months.”

Margaret Findlay Learning and Public Programmes Manager said: “It has been my absolute pleasure to bring events back to Lauriston Castle for the first time since the pandemic.

“It was a vibrant and popular venue for events and we look forward to welcoming our core audiences back while also welcoming new visitors and local communities to our exciting and diverse programme. People truly have a magical experience at a very special castle and gardens and we look forward to creating more memories.”

Tracy Robertson, Steward of Lauriston Castle, said: “We are very proud of our diverse and highly acclaimed programmes at Lauriston Castle and look forward to welcoming visitors through our gates.

“There is something for everyone to participate in and we are always exploring new and exciting events. The Castle and its grounds are magical and we’re very privileged to run events in such a unique place.”

All information on Lauriston Castle events can be found on the Museums and Galleries website or visiting Lauriston Castle Facebook page.

GY skate pop-up at Drylaw Skate Park

4th APRIL from 4 – 8pm

GRANTON Youth’s streetwork team and @theedinburghwheelsproject will be hanging out at Drylaw Skate Park on Tuesday 4th April from 4-8pm giving instructor led skate lessons, playing tunes, showing off their skate skills, and giving out free food!

Come along, tell yer friends and fam, and bring us an easter egg or ten!

GY x

#grantonyouth

#edinburghwheelsproject

#skateboardingedinburgh

#youthworkchangeslives

#youthworkworks

#skatebladebikescootwhateveryeraboot

ELREC: Free Permaculture Course at Lauriston Farm

We are excited to announce the launch of our Permaculture Course, taking place at ELREC plot in Lauriston Farm as part of our Communities’ Reduce Reuse & Recycle project.

This course is open to everyone who is interested in learning about gardening and sustainable land management practices.

Our course offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a range of topics such as soil building, sowing seeds, compost making, beneficial insects, pest management, and much more. By taking our Permaculture Course, you will gain a deeper understanding of how to live more sustainably, reduce your ecological footprint, and contribute positively to the local and global ecosystem.

This is an excellent opportunity to participate in a transformative and enriching experience that empowers individuals to create meaningful and positive change in their lives and communities.

The best part? The course is completely FREE, although donations are welcomed to support our work. To book your spot, please email cfc@elrec.org.uk.

Check out the course timetable here https://www.elrec.org.uk/elrec-permaculture-course-at…/ for more details.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn about permaculture and join us on this journey towards sustainability and regeneration!

Nearly a quarter of people living in Edinburgh can’t name a single symptom of bowel cancer

A new survey by Bowel Cancer UK, of 101 adults living in Edinburgh, has revealed that nearly a quarter of people (24%) can’t name a single symptom of bowel cancer. The disease is the UK’s second biggest cancer killer, but nearly three quarters of people (72%) aren’t aware of this fact.

The YouGov results are published ahead of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month this April, as part of Bowel Cancer UK’s new campaign helping people to #KnowTheHigh5 symptoms of bowel cancer. The campaign is being launched with the support of BBC Radio 1 DJ Adele Roberts, who was diagnosed with the disease in October 2021, and her partner Kate Holderness.

One of the key ‘red flag’ bowel cancer symptoms is blood in your poo but only just over half of people (52%) living in Edinburgh were able to name it.

The other four main symptoms, experienced by many who go on to be diagnosed with the disease, have an alarmingly low rate of awareness based on those people could name:

· Change in bowel habits (13%)

· Pain in tummy (17%)

· Weight loss (13%)

· Tiredness/fatigue (6%)

Even more concerning is that more than six in 10 people (62%) across Edinburgh said if they experienced a change in bowel habit like diarrhoea or constipation that didn’t clear up, or saw bleeding from their bottom, something would stop them from contacting their doctor.

Their reasons included difficulties getting an appointment (29%), being too embarrassed (12%) or being too afraid that it could be something serious (8%).

BBC Radio 1 DJ Adele Roberts, who was diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer in October 2021, says: “It took me a while to pluck up the courage to call my GP at first. My symptoms seemed like things I could explain away. I didn’t want to be a burden to the NHS and I was embarrassed.

“I shouldn’t have worried. My GP took my concerns seriously, put me at ease and also offered me a home testing kit. This meant I was able to do the test in the comfort of my own home. Soon after I was diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer, which was very nearly developing into stage 3.

“Getting the help I needed in time helped save my life. If you’re worried please speak to someone, early detection saves lives and it helped save mine.”

Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care – and now First Minister-elect – Humza Yousaf said: “The Scottish Government launched a new campaign earlier this month to reduce fear of cancer and encourage those with possible symptoms to ‘be the early bird’. As part of this, a roadshow is visiting areas of deprivation across Scotland to raise awareness of symptoms, including bowel cancer.

“The NHS is under significant pressure but diagnosing cancer earlier remains a priority. If anybody is worried about any symptoms highlighted through this research, or any other persistent changes unusual for them, they shouldn’t delay contacting their GP practice – they want to hear from you.”

Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive of Bowel Cancer UK, says: “It’s concerning that people aren’t aware of the symptoms of the UK’s second biggest cancer killer.

“Someone dies from the disease every 30 minutes in the UK, which means that in the time it takes to watch an episode of your favourite soap, one family will lose a loved one to bowel cancer.

“But it doesn’t have to be this way as it is treatable and curable, especially when diagnosed early. That’s why this Bowel Cancer Awareness Month we’re launching a new campaign to raise awareness of the five red flag symptoms of the disease and asking people to take our #KnowTheHigh5 quiz.

“By going to straight to your GP if you spot any symptoms, or if something just doesn’t feel right, it’s possible to rule out the disease first and fast. They will want to see you and may ask you to do a test at home to help decide whether your symptoms need further investigation. Get to know the symptoms of bowel cancer, tell your friends and family about them – it really could save your life.”

Bowel Cancer UK is launching a new campaign for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month helping people to #KnowTheHigh5 symptoms of bowel cancer.

People can take the symptoms quiz and share it with others – plus everyone who takes the quiz can enter a free prize draw with five chances to win a year’s supply of Andrex® toilet roll.

Take the symptoms quiz today: bowelcanceruk.org.uk/quiz

Oh, oh: Council to launch ‘Leith Connections’ active travel project

MORE DISRUPTION FOR BELEAGUERED LEITH BUSINESSES?

Work will soon begin on a scheme to create safer, more welcoming places to walk, wheel, cycle and spend time in Leith, the city council has announced.

The first phase of Leith Connections will introduce measures to limit through traffic and enhance streets for pedestrians and people cycling in areas around Constitution Street, Leith Links and the Shore.

Construction will begin in the week commencing 10 April and is expected to last until late June. Amongst the changes are improved pedestrian crossings, planting and seating in newly created pedestrian spaces, community-inspired artwork and pavement decluttering.

This is alongside new traffic layouts in several of the streets to prioritise people travelling by foot, wheel or bike. These include the closure of Sandport Place Bridge to motor traffic, bus gates at the Shore and Links Place and modal filters to prevent through traffic in some areas.

All residential and business properties will still be accessible by motor vehicle, while blue badge parking will be unaffected. Full details are available on the Leith Connections website.

Leith Connections designs draw from two years of engagement with the community and local stakeholders, encompassing online co-design workshops, public drop-in sessions and focused meetings. Some of the measures, those to the east of the Shore, will be implemented on a trial basis under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO).

The project is being funded through Places for Everyone, an active travel infrastructure programme funded by the Scottish Government and administered by Sustrans.

Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “Leith Connections is a really exciting opportunity to create safer, more welcoming spaces to walk, wheel and cycle in Leith, as well as for spending time with friends or visiting local businesses.

“These changes have drawn on feedback from the community, as well as the Council’s own monitoring. They will also provide better connections to popular walking and cycling routes nearby, like the north Edinburgh path network and the Water of Leith walkway and soon, protected cycle lanes on Leith Walk, delivered as part of the Trams to Newhaven project.

“The team has drawn up a robust monitoring and evaluation plan so that once it’s in place, they can understand the benefits and impacts of Leith Connections. I look forward to hearing what the community thinks too, as part of the ETRO process. I shall be watching this installation closely as I am keen to see more schemes like this in Edinburgh.

Michael Melton, Grant Manager at Sustrans, said: “We are pleased to be working with City of Edinburgh Council to make Leith a safer and more accessible place to walk, wheel, cycle and spend time. The Leith Connections project has been shaped by the local community, with changes including new traffic layouts, improved pedestrian crossings and community-inspired artwork.

Officers will closely monitor the impact of the project through automatic traffic counts, air quality monitoring, market research and focus groups. Information gathered will feed into recommendations for the future of the project.

Further phases of Leith Connections will deliver protected cycle lanes running from the Foot of the Walk to Ocean Terminal (delivered in parallel to the Trams to Newhaven project) and from the Hawthornvale path to Seafield.

These plans are still under development and will include additional improvements to the public spaces in the area.

Find out more about Leith Connections.

CATCH IT WHILE YOU CAN!

ST JAMES QUARTER ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF EDINBURGH SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

Ahoy seafood lovers! The Edinburgh Seafood Festival, in association with The Scotsman, is set to make a splash as it returns to St James Quarter, bringing delicious culinary delights from the Quarter and beyond from Friday 31^st March – Sunday 2^nd April.

The festival will showcase a selection of the highest quality, locally sourced seafood as well as the impressive talents of the gastronomic geniuses behind some of St James Quarter’s most exciting dining destinations.

Guests looking to brush up on their culinary skills can enjoy a range of workshops and demonstrations, hosted by the experts on the Seafood Stage, located on Level 1, on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd April.

Scotland’s National Chef, Chef Gary Maclean will take centre stage on Saturday, from 11am sharing his top tips for cooking fish at home and showcasing his skills in the live demonstration space.

Maki & Ramen’s Founder and Managing Director, Teddy Lee, will also share his culinary secrets and bring a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine to Edinburgh with sushi making masterclasses.

Also part the Seafood Stage line-up, guests can enjoy a fun-filled cooking demo from Jimmy Lee of Bonnie & Wild favourite, Salt and Chilli Oriental. Expert duo Chef Brian Grigor and Sommelier Glen Montgomery, the team behind restaurant eòrna, opening in Stockbridge this Spring, will also host an interactive workshop.

The ever-popular Oysterman will return to this year’s festival, joined by Miss Caviar, offering guests the chance to indulge in seafood delicacies while they explore the Festival.

For serious foodies and seafood lovers, Miele, on Level 2, will play host to two unique and unmissable events. On Saturday, 1^st April, Chef Gary Maclean will host an intimate cooking demonstration and book signing, with all guests enjoying fizz on arrival, the chance to learn from the expert up close, and take home a signed copy of his book, Gary Maclean’s Scottish Kitchen.

On Sunday, 2^nd April, Chef Paul Wedgwood will host an exclusive nine course seafood dinner and tasting menu, in Miele’s state-of-the-art, stylish kitchen. Twelve guests will have the exciting opportunity to see Paul, who was just named Chef of the Year at the Scottish Excellence Awards, at work and enjoy his creative and exquisite dishes that will highlight the very best of Scottish produce.

New to this year’s line-up, The Seafood and Street Food Market will make its debut on Register Square from Friday, 31 March – Sunday, 2 April, giving foodies the chance to dive into a world of flavour and try some tasty street food. Whether you’re looking for a poke bowl, seafood pizza or fish and chips, there will be a vast selection on offer from vendors across Scotland including Spanish Moskito Bites, Mana Poke and Lemon Squeezy.

Those who are inspired to cook with fish at home can pick up fresh Scottish fish and seafood from the Quarter’s very own fishmonger. Guests can also experience a taste of the Outer Hebrides by visiting the Isle of Harris Gin pop up shop to sample or buy the brand’s award-winning gin, made with locally harvested Sugar Kelp seaweed. There will be a pop-up Prosecco and Sangria bar too – the perfect accompaniment to the seafood delights on offer.

There are also opportunities to sample delicious dishes and seafood specials throughout the Quarter. If you’re looking for a reel treat, then enjoy the luxury experience of Bonnie & Wild’s Champagne and Oyster Bar – open from 12pm on April 1^st only.

From 4-6pm, Duck and Waffle will host a Shucking Awesome Oyster Happy Hour, with £1.50 oysters and perfectly paired drinks. Ka Pao is ready to make waves with its seafood specials menu, inspired by the team’s recent trip to Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Guests can also enjoy a Greek take on the classic fish and chips at The Real Greek, and a limited-edition fish and chips bagel from the team at Bross Bagels.

As if that wasn’t enough, there will be an educational RNLI pop-up, live entertainment from local talent on Level 4, a fin-tastic play area in LEGO and under the sea glitter face painting for the kids (and adults too!).

If you’re in the market for a little retail therapy, then look no further. As consumers become increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases, many retailers are recognising the importance of sustainability.

From recycling stations in H&M, John Lewis and The Perfume Shop to refillable cosmetics in newly opened Space NK and The Body Shop, brands across the Quarter will be spotlighting their sustainable collections and product ranges or initiatives throughout the Seafood Festival.

Nick Peel, Managing Director St James Quarter, said: “It’s great to be bringing back Edinburgh Seafood Festival to St James Quarter. This year’s festival is set to be bigger and better than ever and will offer an amazing range of seafood options from dining destinations around the Quarter and beyond.

“From a jam-packed schedule of events including live cooking demonstrations and workshops with some of the country’s top chefs, as well as the new addition of the Seafood Market in Register Square, there’s lots of exciting activities and entertainment planned to keep the whole family entertained.

“Guest experience is front and centre of everything we do, so we’re really excited to be bringing another unique and memorable experience to the city. We look forward to welcoming as many people as possible to St James Quarter to enjoy this year’s Edinburgh Seafood Festival – be sure to catch it while you can!”

For more information on this year’s Edinburgh Seafood Festival, please visit https://stjamesquarter.com/event/edinburgh-seafood-festival-2023.

To keep up to date with the latest news, offers and events, download the St James Quarter app here.

Edinburgh embraces Day of Action

NATIONAL SUPPORTED INTERNSHIP DAY

A new government-backed national day of action will be marked today (Monday 27 March) to boost the number of people with a learning disability or autism spectrum condition in employment.

Led by the charity DFN Project SEARCH, the first-ever National Supported Internship Day showcases the tremendous contribution young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) can make to the workforce.

In Edinburgh, the City of Edinburgh Council, NHS Lothian and Virgin Hotels will hold a series of events throughout the week, including a celebration for newly graduated interns. Young people will take over the city’s Project SEARCH social media channel on Monday to share what they are getting up to on their supported internships.

Employers in all sectors are also being called upon to redouble efforts to employ young adults with SEND and come together to challenge the everyday misconceptions that all too often unfairly shape their life opportunities.

Councillor Mandy Watt, Depute Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Training and employment chances were pulled from under young people’s feet because of Covid. So, one of our biggest priorities in the aftermath of the pandemic has been to improve opportunities and outcomes for our young people, including those with complex needs.

“I’m proud of the inspiring and talented group of graduates we’ve nurtured. Many have held internships with us while others have been supported by NHS Lothian and Virgin Hotels.

“This day of action, I want to call on other Edinburgh-based employers to follow suit. We require a variety of placements every year to ensure we’re able to provide a full range of experiences to our young people and interested organisations should get in touch with Edinburgh Project Search.

“These are ten-week work placements beginning in September and the benefits are life-changing. They give special young people the same opportunities as their peers and space to shine.

“The placements can unlock confidence, build CV skills and be the difference between someone choosing to enter the workforce or feeling unable to. Plus, employers may well find their intern is exactly the type of person they’ve been looking for to expand their talent pool.”

Luke Baillie has been taking part in the programme and has a placement at Edinburgh’s bus station. He said: “Project SEARCH gives us the chance to get real work experience, build our CV and prepare for employment.

“It allows us to build our confidence and learn skills we otherwise wouldn’t be able to access. It changes our lives.

Adam Gray, Regional Director of People, Scotland at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: “At Virgin Hotels, our teammates are fundamental to our success. It is important to us that our teammates reflect the guests that we welcome to our hotels, inclusive of everyone.

“Being a host business with DFN Project Search Edinburgh is something we are incredibly passionate about and proud to be the first privately owned organisation to do so.

“National Supported Internship Day is a great way to shine a light on the incredible talents of the interns of the 2022/2023 Cohort, and showcase the positive impact that supported internships have on business, organisations and also the local community.”

Most recent figures show that just 4.1% of young adults with a learning disability and/or autism in Scotland enter secure paid employment following education, compared to 80% of their peers.

Supported internships – work-based study programmes for 16 to 29-year-olds with SEND – dramatically change the employment outcomes for those who take part. DFN Project SEARCH figures show that 70% of people who complete their supported internships achieve this and successfully remain in employment.

Having meaningful paid employment is known to improve health and wellbeing and is central to individual identity and social status. If given the correct support and opportunities, young adults with SEND can thrive in a wide variety of jobs.

Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing, Claire Coutinho said: “Supported Internships provide brilliant support to young people with EHC plans, equipping them with the skills they need to have fulfilling and successful careers.

“This is why we are boosting investment for the internships by doubling their numbers, and through the extra £3m the Chancellor announced last week we’ll explore ways to extend this programme to young people with SEND and without an EHC plan.

“Ensuring successful transitions into adulthood is a central part of our SEND and AP Improvement Plan, through which we will make sure all children and young people have the support they needed, no matter where they live or what school they go to.”

David Forbes Nixon, Founder and Executive Chair of DFN Project SEARCH, said: “We created National Supported Internships Day to give every young adult with a learning disability the same opportunities as anyone else to transition from education to employment.

“There is often a fear factor among employers of getting it wrong in hiring young adults with a learning disability, but it doesn’t need to be like that. It makes good business sense to explore the wealth of untapped potential among this group of enthusiastic and capable young people.

“They are keen, ambitious, and have an array of talent to offer employers.”