Scotland Is Taking Action
Scotland is living in a global climate emergency. As we start to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic we have the chance to make positive changes to help tackle climate change and reach net zero emissions in a way that is just and fair. But we need everyone to take action and play their part. It’s time for change. With the wellbeing and safety of the world’s population at stake, we need to succeed. And together we can. Let’s do net zero.
What’s here
Scotland's Commitment
Scotland was one of the first countries in the world to declare a climate emergency and in the the last 30 years we've halved our greenhouse gas emissions. As part of our ongoing commitment to protect people and our planet, we've set a target to reach net zero emissions by 2045.
Net Zero is vital for people, nature and our climate. It will bring new opportunities, transform our economy and our society and we are committed to getting there in a way that is fair, leaves no one behind and benefits all of us.
Our goal, as we move away from carbon intensive industries, is to make the economy work for everyone so no one is left behind, whilst protecting our planet. The journey to create a better future for everyone - regardless of where they live, what they do and who they are – is known as a ‘Just Transition’. Our green recovery will help build infrastructure for things like electric vehicles, heating, aviation, marine and renewables. And we’re already building resilience to the impacts of climate change by investing in flood risk management to protect our iconic coastlines. The opportunities for innovative net zero solutions, products and services is enormous and growing – Scotland can harness these to help grow our economy.
What’s the plan?
The Scottish Government has set out short, medium and long term goals and when they are to be achieved by in the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019.
Here are some of the most recent commitments that the Scottish Government has set out in the Programme for Government to tackle climate change and help Scotland and its people get to net zero:
- £1.6bn to transform our homes and buildings over the next Parliament.
- £100m to a new Green Jobs Fund to support businesses which provide sustainable and/or low carbon products and services to develop, grow and create jobs.
- Investment in green jobs and skills as part of the green recovery, including a £60m Youth Guarantee, increased opportunities for ‘green’ apprenticeships across public sector bodies and £25m National Transition Training Fund with a focus on provision of green skills.
- £60 million to support the industrial manufacturing sector including the £34m Scottish Industrial Energy Transformation Fund and £26m Manufacturing Low Carbon Infrastructure Challenge Fund.
At COP26 in Glasgow we played our part to achieve lasting climate action, by raising ambition and recognising the need for the world to work together. Now – more than ever – we’re striving to get to Net Zero in a way that’s fair and just for everyone.
Success Stories
Scotland's businesses are taking action
Building on sustainable foundations to protect an island landscape for future generations
Located in Skye’s coastal village of Waternish, Skyeskyns produces the highest quality sheepskins. With the support of Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Skyeskyns has built upon its sustainable foundations and implemented various innovative initiatives across the company.
Hospitality firm reaping the benefits of embarking on the journey to net-zero
With support from across the public sector, including Scottish Enterprise and Business Gateway, Oak Tree Inn has implemented various innovative initiatives across the company in order to become more sustainable.
Clothing rental firm shows journey to net zero is in fashion
One business that has been committed to sustainability since its inception in 1997 is ACS Clothing, a Rental and Resale reverse logistics provider in the fashion rental industry.
The Remakery
Bridging the digital divide by connecting to the earth.
What can I do?
We must all play a part in tackling climate change. The energy we use to heat our homes and the way we travel are the two biggest contributors to climate change in Scotland from individuals. Find out ways we can all take action to help the planet and make ourselves feel good too.
