Tag: net zero

Less than half of Scots say reaching net zero will improve quality of life

Mixed views on climate crisis

Almost half (44%) of Scots think that reaching net zero by 2045 would improve their quality of life – compared to just 1 in 10 who think it would make it worse –  according to new official statistics published for the first time today.

The Scottish Climate Survey also found that almost three-quarters of those surveyed (72%) feel climate change is an immediate and urgent problem and almost all households have experienced a severe weather event in the past 12 months. 

More than 4,000 adults across Scotland shared their views on a range of climate-related issues, including transport, nature, preparing for the impacts of climate change and home energy.

The survey found that a third of households (33%) were finding it difficult to afford their energy bills whilst more than four in ten (42%) said they were having to cut back spending on food and other essentials to spend more on energy bills.​

People were also asked about their overall views on climate change and the impact of the transition to net zero. Almost half of adults (46%) reported feeling worried about climate change – with one in ten (11%) saying that their feelings about climate change had a negative effect on them most of the time.

Acting Minister for Climate Action, Alasdair Allan, said: “The findings from this survey highlight that people recognise the benefits that reaching net zero by 2045 will bring.

“However, if we are to persuade people to back climate action wholeheartedly, we must speak not only of the costs and challenges but also demonstrate clear and direct household and community benefits where possible.

“Whilst the powers over energy price setting and regulation are reserved, we continue to prioritise support for the most vulnerable households through access to long-term, sustainable measures with our energy efficiency programmes. We are also calling on the UK Government to introduce targeted energy bill discounts to support those who need it most.

“Scotland is now halfway to net zero and continues to be ahead of the UK as a whole in delivering long term emissions reductions. However in order to reach our target, we need to work together more effectively, at all levels of Government and beyond – and the findings from this survey help demonstrate that Scots not only understand the seriousness of the climate crisis – but want to see action.

“That’s why we will continue to drive climate action that is fair, ambitious and effective at addressing the scale of the emergency which faces us.”

Scottish Climate Survey: main findings – gov.scot

Scottish businesses invited to attend sustainability webinar with Royal Bank of Scotland

On 29th October, Royal Bank of Scotland, in collaboration with the Supply Chain Sustainability School, will host an open webinar session to help businesses in Scotland to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the local transition towards net zero.

The free-to-attend webinar is part of Royal Bank’s education programme to provide practical support and guidance for business. The webinar will share insight into the fast-growing net zero opportunities across the built environment and follows the recent provision of retrofit training classes for the UK construction industry.

The session will offer commentary from industry experts who will highlight the significant opportunities available in Scotland by demonstrating key policy and sector standards creating the need for change, as well as outlining key pipelines of work in net zero built environment in the region.

Speakers include a keynote from Sean Smith, Director of Future Infrastructure at University of Edinburgh, followed by contributions from Nick Ribbons from Zero Waste Scotland, Angela Pllu, Senior Environmental Sustainability Manager, Balfour Beatty and Callum Scott, Senior Sustainability Manager, Multiplex.

The sessions will also help local businesses understand the change happening in their region around net zero, how businesses and pipelines of work are reacting to this and what these opportunities mean for them.

Laura Capper, Head of Manufacturing & Construction at NatWest Group said: “As a key supporter of UK business, NatWest Group aims to back proactive and ambitious businesses that are committed to developing their environmental credentials and achieving growth goals alongside making meaningful differences for customers and communities alike.

“We are launching this session to help Scottish businesses take advantage of the changes impacting the local landscape. Sustainability is becoming an essential part of everyday business, and we want to help leaders to understand and embrace the opportunities presented.”

Launched in 2012, the Supply Chain Sustainability School is a free virtual learning platform around sustainability, with the aim to upskill those working within, or aspiring to work within, the built environment sector.

Holly Hansen-Maughan, Sector Manager for Retrofit and Future Workforce at SCSS, said: “The transition to a net zero built environment is a significant challenge. However, it is also a massive opportunity for businesses across the country.

“That is why it is so important businesses understand the opportunities being taken, and created, in their regions”

Callum Scott, ESG Lead – Scotland, Multiplex said: “In this crucial decade of climate action it is imperative that businesses step up as a force for good. In doing so, there is a significant opportunity to generate new value propositions and create a more resilient value chain.

“The supply chain is often where the largest impact can be made, which is why Multiplex are delighted to be supporting the Supply Chain Sustainability School and Royal Bank’s efforts to provide accessible and tangible resources to those looking to seize the net zero opportunity.”

Professor Sean Smith, Director, Centre for Future Infrastructure, Edinburgh Futures Institute; Chair of Future Construction, University of Edinburgh said: “Net zero is heavily dependent on business and industry sectors working closely with their supply chains.

“The collective positive actions from so many working together has a positive legacy far beyond our current generations.”

The webinar will take place on 29th October at 12 – 1pm.

Businesses interested in attending can register through the following link with Royal Bank of Scotland here.

Growing Scotland’s net zero economy

Green Industrial Strategy unveiled

A focused strategy has been launched to place Scotland at the forefront of the net zero economy, with targeted actions to secure growth and investment.

Delivered as part of the Programme for Government, the Green Industrial Strategy sets out five priority areas where efforts and resources will be concentrated.

These are:

  • maximising Scotland’s wind economy
  • growing the hydrogen sector
  • developing the carbon capture, utilisation and storage sector
  • supporting green economy professional and financial services
  • attracting clean energy intensive industries such as datacentres

A range of specific actions include hosting a Global Offshore Wind Investment Forum next Spring, working with the sector to develop hubs of hydrogen production and demand and working with public and private partners to drive investment in key projects.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes and Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin unveiled the Strategy during a visit to Flowcopter, a company developing drones which can be used in the offshore wind sector.

Ms Forbes said: “The global transition to net zero provides opportunities across every part of our economy through a strengthened partnership between the public and private sectors.

“This Green Industrial Strategy spells out where we believe the greatest opportunities lie, and where we will focus our attention and resources.

“It provides certainty for businesses – both at home and abroad – by demonstrating where and how we will work to reduce barriers to investment and, where appropriate, share risk and reward.”

Ms Martin said: “Scotland’s energy sector will play a crucial role in growing the economy and delivering on our net zero targets.

“We have already committed up to £500 million over five years to develop the offshore wind supply chain.

“This will build further on Scotland’s strengths to generate growth in well paid jobs and exports, to enable us to deliver on our Programme for Government priorities of high quality public services, eradicating child poverty and protecting the planet.”

Managing Director of Flowcopter Peter McCurry said: “The rapidly growing green energy sector represents a real opportunity for Flowcopter to not only scale-up our business, but create even more high-tech jobs as part of a Scottish supply chain.

“Flowcopter has successfully developed an uncrewed cargo drone for remote logistics. Through this, we came to recognise the huge potential to drastically reduce operations and maintenance costs for the offshore wind industry.”

The Green Industrial Strategy.

SCVO receive funding for key third sector climate project

Growing Climate Confidence has been supported by the Scottish Funders’ Forum 

A leading third sector climate project offering vital support to charities and voluntary organisations looking to tackle the climate crisis will be funded for another two years, it has been announced.  

This initiative is delivered by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) on behalf of the Third Sector Net Zero steering group, with advisory input from Scottish Funders and Net Zero experts.   

The £200,000 awarded will cover strategic support, raising awareness of the campaign, and training provided by others in the sector.  Funding has been provided by the Corra Foundation, the National Lottery Community Fund, the Robertson Trust, SSE and the William Grant Foundation.

This new funding – over two years from June 1, 2024 – will provide fully funded carbon reduction and climate resilience training, self-serve digital tools to help organisations develop a net zero action plan, and strategic support to influence the funding landscape for climate work. 

Beth Mukushi, SCVO head of support services, said: “The Growing Climate Confidence project helps third sector organisations understand and own their responsibilities to take action on climate change.  

“We know that the majority of organisations care deeply about the climate emergency, but only 42% of organisations have policies in place to reduce their own carbon emissions.  

“Our net zero scorecard has given over 400 organisations a tailored action plan, and this funding will help us reach more organisations, offer wrap-around training and support, and link organisations into existing networks of climate action across the country.” 

Kate Still, chair of The National Lottery Community Fund Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be able to support SCVO in expanding its Growing Climate Confidence Initiative, thanks to funding raised by National Lottery players. 

“Through our funding we aim to help communities become more environmentally sustainable and to make the changes that help support a healthy planet. 

“SCVO has great experience and expertise in supporting Third Sector organisations to take action on the climate emergency,  and the expansion of this initiative will build the momentum and equip many more Third Sector organisations with tools to assist them on their net zero journey.” 

An SSE spokesperson said: “The climate emergency is one of society’s most pressing challenges. We know from our community grant making that many third sector organisations want to do their part in tackling it but don’t know where to start.  

“The Growing Climate Confidence website and support programme helps them get clarity on what to focus on, and how. SSE is therefore proud to support the roll out and further development of this important work with partners.” 

Nick Addington, chief executive of the William Grant Foundation, said: “We believe that all charities and social enterprises have a role to play in helping achieve a fair transition to a sustainable and climate-adapted future – whatever their mission – so we’re really pleased to be able to partner with other Scottish funders to enable SCVO to enhance its support to Scotland’s third sector around climate action.” 

First Minister to meet new Prime Minister in Scotland today

First Minister John Swinney will welcome new Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to Scotland today.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, the First Minister said: “I was really pleased to have the opportunity to speak to the Prime Minister on his first day in office and to congratulate him and wish him, and his family well.

“I look forward to welcoming the Prime Minister to Scotland where I hope to have constructive discussions with him on our shared priorities for the people of Scotland. This includes eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, prioritising net zero, and ensuring effective public services. 

“I welcome the Prime Minister’s commitment to forge a positive relationship between our governments and for our part, the Scottish Government is committed to working constructively with the UK Government to build a better Scotland.”

WHATEVER your political allegiances. the relationship between the two governments is crucial to the people of Scotland. I’d like to think it will be more constructive than it has been in the recent past – Ed.

Green City: Healing and Hope

THURSDAY 15 FEBRUARY at 7pm = FREE EVENT

Join us for the premiere screening of Green City: Healing and Hope, a new storytelling film exploring the grassroots movement to turn Edinburgh green.

The struggle for net zero will be won or lost in cities, so how is Edinburgh doing after 900 years as a burgh?

Hear directly from people and places who think global and act local.

This event is free but ticketed please book a ticket: https://bit.ly/3w1K9tF

Party leaders discuss climate ambitions for Scotland

First Minister chairs cross-party meeting on net zero

First Minister Humza Yousaf chaired a cross-party discussion on Scotland’s climate change ambitions at Holyrood yesterday.

Inviting party leaders to discuss how we can all address the climate crisis, the First Minister highlighted the Parliament’s shared goal of securing a future that is fair and just for all.

He urges all parties to lead and promote behaviour change from everyone in society.

Chris Stark, Chief Executive of the independent UK Climate Change Committee (CCC), presented information on where Scotland is in its journey to net zero.

Speaking ahead of yesterday’s meeting, the First Minister said: “Tackling the climate and nature crises is the collective fight of our lifetime, with implications for generations to come.

“The discussion will focus both on the challenges and opportunities we face in reaching net zero. We collectively made a commitment to deliver on net zero when Parliament backed the Act on a cross-party basis.

“There must be a recognition from across the political divide that we require bold action to tackle the scale of the climate crisis, and meet our ambitions on net zero.

“In addition to our Climate Change Plan, we are developing the first set of Just Transition Plans to set out how these changes impact different parts of society and how we can promote a fair path to a net zero and climate resilient Scotland.

“We will continue to implement net zero policies and deliver funding to where it is needed the most – with the highest impact.

“From today’s meeting, I am hopeful that we can continue to work together to implement net zero policies – thereby helping to create a better and more sustainable planet for us all.”

Granton leading the way on low carbon housing, says Greens 

GREENER HOMES ON GRANTON WATERFRONT

The Scottish Government has published their consultation paper on planned Heat in Buildings legislation which sets out a path for how best to deliver greener, warmer homes for Scotland. 

The Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenant’s Rights, Patrick Harvie, recently visited Granton to see heat networks being set up for the new developments on the Waterfront. 

The systems and homes being built in Granton are examples of what could be rolled out across Scotland – greener energy, lower bills and no fossil fuels. 

https://twitter.com/i/status/1729510041915457721

Green Councillor for Forth Ward, Kayleigh O’Neill said: “This is another major milestone in the Granton Waterfront project. Over £1 billion has gone into helping a community become well connected and no longer reliant on fossil fuels. This is a massive step towards tacking climate change and transitioning the city, and country, to net-zero.” 

Cllr. O’Neill added: “Over the next ten years we will also see more affordable housing being built and care taken towards our urban coastal green spaces. We have to be ambitious and put people and planet first in all future developments.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transition towards a greener economy. Granton Waterfront will set the standard for sustainable growth and show how we can live without fossil fuels.” 

The consultation will run until 8 March 2024, then responses will be scrutinised and a final decision made on when to publish a Bill in the Scottish Parliament to pass in 2025. 

You can take part in the consultation here: 

https://www.gov.scot/publications/delivering-net-zero-scotlands-buildings-consultation-proposals-heat-buildings-bill/ 

Edinburgh ‘leads the way on Climate Action’

The City of Edinburgh has claimed the top spot of councils in Scotland on climate action, it has been announced this week (Wednesday 18 October) by Climate Emergency UK.

The Council Climate Action Scorecards cover 7 sections, ask 91 questions, and were created in consultation with over 90 different organisations and key individuals. 

Collectively this provides some of the most in-depth analysis of climate action in UK local authorities to date.

With a total score of 58%, the City of Edinburgh Council ranks joint 4th overall in the UK, and 1st in Scotland. Edinburgh was also the only council outside of London which placed in the top six of the table.

Edinburgh scored highest in the sections for Collaboration & Engagement (78%), Planning & Land Use (70%) and Waste Reduction & Food (67%).

Disappointingly, only 41 of the UK’s 388 local and combined authorities scored above 50%, with the average score being just 32%.

The Council will use the Scorecards to understand where it can be bolder, and where it needs to make faster progress on climate action.

Council Leader Cammy Day said: “Whilst I welcome this excellent news about Edinburgh’s ranking from Climate Emergency UK, we still have a long road ahead to reach our goal of Edinburgh becoming a net zero city by 2030 and addressing the other key challenges in our 2030 Climate Strategy.  

“It is important though that we highlight the good progress we’re making. From pioneering our sustainable active travel and public transport networks, to combatting food waste, and making our Council houses and buildings more energy efficient, alongside flagship projects like our Granton Waterfront net zero redevelopment (above), I’m inspired by what I see around the city.

“I’d add that in the next few months reports on our Council Emissions Reduction Plan (CERP) and progress on city-wide emissions, and delivery of our 2030 Climate Strategy will be heard at committee.

“I’m conscious that whilst local government has a key role to play in our just transition to net zero, but this must be done alongside wider society with coordination and cooperation alongside government, private sector, third sector and our citizens.

“This was underlined in January of this year, when the Scottish Parliament’s Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee stated clearly in their report that Scotland will not meet its climate targets without a more empowered local government sector, and the removal of key barriers facing not only our Council but many across the country.  

“We’re bold and ambitious in our approach and aims, but this is absolutely essential if we are to properly confront the climate emergency, which is undoubtedly the key existential challenge of our times. “

Climate Emergency UK Co-Director Annie Pickering said: “The low scores across the board shows that there are national barriers for local authorities that make it harder for most councils to deliver the necessary climate action.

“A lack of funding and government policy U-turns are some of the barriers to effective local climate action.”

Call for urgent four nations summit on climate change

Scottish and Welsh Ministers press UK Government on new partnership

The Scottish and Welsh governments have written to the UK Government calling for a new four nations summit on reaching net zero, to be chaired by the independent Climate Change Committee.

The call follows the Prime Minister’s speech on climate change last week.

The letter, co-signed by Scotland’s Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan and Wales’ Minister for Climate Change Julie James, highlights the weakness of current arrangements for working with the devolved nations and calls for greater UK collaboration in agreeing the pathway towards the UK’s legally-binding net zero targets.

The two governments propose that the summit be chaired by the independent Climate Change Committee, which acts as a statutory adviser to all four nations.

The full text of the letter to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and Minister for Intergovernmental Relations is below:

Rt Hon Michael Gove MP
Secretary of State for Levelling Up,
Housing and Communities
and Minister for Intergovernmental Relations
House of Commons
London
SW1A 0AA

28 September 2023

Dear Michael,

This is a joint letter from myself and Julie James, Minister for Climate Change, Welsh Government.

We write to highlight our disappointment in relation to the Prime Minister’s statement last week (20 September) announcing that the UK Government is significantly changing course on key net zero commitments.

Despite the far-reaching implications of the announcements made – with substantial changes in policy that will impact progress in delivering net zero and have profoundly negative implications for the environment and economy across the UK and further affect the UK’s international reputation – there was no prior engagement with the devolved governments. Given that delivery of the climate ambitions of the four nations of the UK are intrinsically linked, this is deeply unsatisfactory.

In addition, almost a week later, it is hugely frustrating that the UK Government has not provided the level of detail required by such significant announcements. We would urge you to provide this immediately to enable devolved governments to fully assess the implications.

Regarding Scotland, the Scottish Government will separately be writing to the UK Government shortly, in more detail, setting out areas in which progress urgently needs to be clarified. Regarding Wales, the Welsh Government has also separately written to the UK Government, seeking further clarity on the impacts of the recent policy changes on Wales.

Tackling the twin crises of climate change and nature loss is one of the most significant challenges facing people and planet this century and all nations of the UK must work in partnership to complete the net zero journey. Delivering progress on net zero requires urgent action and higher ambition from the UK Government on issues reserved to Westminster to complement the action taken under devolved powers. The Climate Change Committee has been clear that action by the UK Government is important for delivery of climate change targets around the UK, just as action in Scotland and Wales is crucial to UK targets.

Since last week’s process shows the weakness of current arrangements, we are now urging you to establish a new, mutually respectful partnership, with the aim of developing an agreed four nation approach to net zero in a collaborative manner. We therefore invite you to commit, in the first instance, to a high-level summit for a four nation approach and to agree with us that our statutory advisers, the independent Climate Change Committee, be invited to chair the summit.

We are also copying in Katrina Godfrey, Permanent Secretary at the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs and the Secretary of State at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Yours sincerely,

JULIE JAMES, MAIRI MCALLAN