Stories for Change

Stories are powerful. They compel us to think differently, inspire us to change, and connect us to a shared purpose. As we face the climate emergency, stories can help raise awareness of the actions that can help and motivate us to change. When we hear how others—just like us— are taking steps to reduce emissions, conserve energy, or protect our natural world, it can spark a desire to do the same. Stories can also reveal that taking climate action often brings personal benefits to us here and now, as well as benefiting future generations.

That’s why for Scotland’s Climate Week we’re putting stories front and centre, celebrating those who are changing their habits for the good of themselves and our planet.

Here are just a few of the amazing stories we’re showcasing during Scotland’s Climate Week and that can act as inspiration all year round:

Angus Climate Action Hub and Angus Cycle Hub are supporting six carers in Kirrie and Forfar to get around on e-bikes. ​This will allow them to visit their clients more easily, in a way that’s quick, efficient and produces zero emissions.​ Would you give an e-bike a try? It could help improve your mental and physical wellbeing, and if it meant you left the car at home more often it could also benefit the planet.​

Find out more about Climate Action Hubs and other support available for your community here.

The Ledge, a climbing wall based in Inverness, is helping the local community improve their physical and mental health. In 2023, with assistance from HIE and Business Energy Scotland, they installed an air-source heat pump system that cut their energy usage and carbon emissions by 60%. This not only reduces their environmental footprint but also lowers costs, freeing up more resources for the vital work they do in the community.

Find out more about renewable energy options here. Or if you’re a business there’s lots of helpful resources to help you reduce your emissions here.

Founded by Marion Montgomery in 2018, the Paws on Plastic initiative has attracted over 26,000 dog owners, encouraging them to pick up litter during their daily walks. Every year, the community removes more than 30 million pieces of litter from streets, beaches, and parks, making a visible impact on the environment. It’s a simple yet incredibly effective way to make a difference—and it's great for our mental health, too.

Find out more about the impacts of waste on the environment and actions you can take here.

These stories are just a few examples of the many individuals and organisations across Scotland stepping up to change their habits to help tackle the climate emergency. Whether it’s cycling to work, reducing energy consumption, or reducing waste —every action counts and every story adds momentum.

As we mark another Climate Week, we invite you to take inspiration from these stories. Keep doing what you can to protect our planet, share your own story using #ScotClimateWeek, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can build a Net Zero Nation.

Find out more about Scotland’s Climate Week here. And follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, X and Instagram to keep up to date on the action and feel inspired.