Net zero plans

Council responds to government climate change plan.

People living in rural households and low income families will be hit hardest by Scottish Government plans to make the country eco-friendly, according to council chiefs. Ministers at Holyrood have created a draft Climate Change Plan, which has big ambitions to drastically reduce carbon emissions across Scotland and gradually “transition to net zero” between 2026 and 2040. This will involve the development of new policies around energy use in homes, businesses, and industries, as well as changes around the handling of waste and introduction of active travel schemes and community energy projects. With such big changes in mind, the Scottish Government has launched a consultation with all 32 councils in Scotland and is seeking responses to its draft climate change document. Dumfries and Galloway Council has until the end of this month to submit its views to help shape the future of carbon emission reduction efforts – and minimise any negative impacts on local residents. Council economy and environment officers have responded to 33 questions posed by government officials in the consultation, and have underlined several key issues. Question 16 asked: “Which groups or communities do you think will be most affected by the transition to net zero, and in what ways?” The council responded: “It is likely that the most affected groups will be: rural households, low-income families, farmers, and transport-dependent communities and SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises). “In short, the cost of transitioning, combined with a slower roll out of required infrastructure, is likely to have significant cost impact for all groups that will impact on the ability to utilise the advantages aligned with a greener low carbon economy.” In the consultation, the Scottish Government refers to “delivering a just transition”, however council chiefs have concerns over the impact on farmers and the farming industry. They have called for “phased implementation, financial support, and community engagement” in any climate change national rollout. Question 15 in the consultation states: “How can the Scottish Government support farming to become more climate-friendly while continuing to support food production and improve biodiversity?” Council officers have responded: “Given the region’s rurality and significant agricultural industry, additional support should be targeted for farmers through advisory services, incentives for biodiversity, and fair carbon credit markets. “Opportunities should be aligned with the region’s carbon natural goals and to increase the sequestration opportunities and the development of the Regional Food Plan, better alignment will provide assistance and local opportunities that can assist diversification and development of low carbon technology.” When asked what would help the council to help residents live a “more climate-friendly lifestyle”, council officers called for financial incentives for home energy efficiency, the expansion of rural EV charging points, and improved public transport frequency. They also suggested offering grants for low-carbon lifestyle changes, such as bike purchase schemes and community energy projects. Local opportunities to enhance the circular economy, with a focus on re-use/recycle etc. The response drawn up by council officers is currently in draft form in a seven-page document. It will be reviewed and finalised by councillors at next Wednesday’s Climate, Environment and Biodiversity Sub Committee. The consultation response is due to be submitted to the Scottish Government by a deadline of January 29.