How have Sco+sh public bodies responded to the declara6on of a climate emergency? The Ferret emailed 30 public bodies in Scotland on 16 July 2019 as follows: “On 28 April 2019 the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, declared a “climate emergency”. On 14 May the climate change secretary, Roseanna Cunningham, made a statement to the ScoMsh Parliament on the government’s response to the "global climate emergency” lisRng a number of measures being taken to cut carbon polluRon. On 19 June the First Minister announced the “big climate conversaRon” to discuss acRon “to tackle the global climate emergency”. “Though environmental groups welcome these moves, they quesRon whether enough is being done to encourage government agencies to change their behaviour. “Has (your organisaRon) received any direcRon or guidance from ScoMsh Ministers on how to respond to the climate emergency? If so, what did it say, and what was the agency's response? Whether or nor any guidance was received from ministers, what specific measures has (your organisaRon) put in place since April to respond to the climate emergency? As much detail as possible would be welcome, as would any guidance or background informaRon.” We also asked the ScoMsh Government similar quesRons. The full responses of the government and 27 of the public bodies are reproduced below. Sco+sh Government A ScoMsh Government spokesperson said: 
 
 “Scotland’s world-leading response to the global climate emergency needs to be system-wide and built on solid foundaRons of dialogue, collaboraRon and consensus. Our Big Climate ConversaRon will involve all sectors of society in idenRfying what needs to happen to end Scotland’s contribuRon to global warming. 
 “We are working with partners across the public sector to explore the most efficient ways of scaling up acRon. We will shortly launch a wricen consultaRon on the role of the public sector in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including seeking views on opportuniRes and challenges that public bodies face in decarbonising their operaRons, informaRon about what works, and what support and guidance is needed.” Background
 On 19th June the ScoMsh Government launched The Big Climate ConversaRon. Scotland’s response to the climate emergency will require significant changes across all sectors of society - individuals, communiRes, businesses – as well as across the whole of the public sector, and the Big Climate ConversaRon aims to build a collaboraRve approach to that. Several aspects of the Big Climate ConversaRon are focussed on the public sector. 
 We will shortly launch a wricen consultaRon on the role of the public sector in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The consultaRon will seek views on updaRng the Public Sector Climate Change reporRng duRes so they best support enhanced climate change ambiRon. The consultaRon will also seek views on the opportuniRes and challenges that public bodies face in decarbonising their operaRons, informaRon about what works, and what support and guidance is needed. A conference aimed at sustainability professionals working in the public sector will be run on ScoMsh Government’s behalf by the Sustainable Scotland Network in October. 
 ScoMsh Government is working with partners across the public sector to explore the most efficient ways of scaling up acRon. The ScoMsh Leaders Forum (SLF) is a network of leaders at the heart of public services in Scotland. SLF met most recently on 3 June, and acknowledged that the Climate Emergency was one of several key naRonal challenges that members will look to focus on in the future. Discussions are ongoing within the SLF to shape its future programme, and ScoMsh Government officials will conRnue to liaise with the SLF, to support any work on climate change. Similarly, officials are working with the Public Bodies Delivery Group, comprised of Chief ExecuRves from Scotland’s execuRve agencies, to assist in the development of a collecRve response to the emergency. An amendment to our Climate Change (Emissions ReducRon Targets) (Scotland) Bill was proposed during Stage 2 of the Parliamentary process in June that would require public bodies to set out how they plan to contribute to meeRng or exceeding the naRonal emissions reducRons targets prior to ScoMsh Ministers approving their resourcing. The ScoMsh Government agrees that public bodies have a vital role to play in responding to the global climate emergency and that ministers should be saRsfied that public bodies are contribuRng to reduced emissions prior to agreeing resources. The ScoMsh Government would like to take the opportunity to work with opposiRon members to refine the wording and to bring back an amendment at stage 3. It is essenRal that the amendment to the Bill helps drives the delivery of the posiRve acRons and outcomes that we expect from all our public bodies. Ministers rouRnely provide strategic guidance as part of their sponsorship of a wide range of public bodies and have recently wricen to those agencies involved in the Enterprise and Skills Strategic Board around their expectaRons and prioriRes for 2019/20, including with regard to the First Minister’s declaraRon of a global climate emergency. Guidance provided to these organisaRons highlight the need for all public bodies to help realise the significant opportunity for growing the low carbon sector, both through leadership and directly through acRon on their own estates. Conven6on of Sco+sh Local Authori6es A spokesperson for the ConvenRon of ScoMsh Local AuthoriRes said: “COSLA accepts that climate change is a global crisis which requires an urgent and considered response. However, COSLA is not a ScoMsh Government agency so we do not receive guidance or direcRon in this way, on any macer. Since April we have been developing a response to the Climate Emergency declared by the ScoMsh Government and several of our members councils. As a first step the COSLA Environment and Economy Board agreed in June to support the ScoMsh Government’s amendment to the Climate Change Bill to set a net zero emissions target for 2045. We will develop our thinking over the summer and we expect to be in a posiRon to discuss how local government can respond to a climate emergency in more detail in the autumn.” Transport Scotland A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “In light of the global climate emergency, Ministers informed Parliament that the ScoMsh Government, including Transport Scotland, would look across a whole range of responsibiliRes to make sure that we conRnue with the policies that are underway to reduce emissions and, where necessary, idenRfy increased acRons. We can confirm that extensive work is underway across our porkolio, in addiRon to exisRng iniRaRves already in the pipeline. “The ScoMsh Government has already announced a change in its policy on Air Departure Tax. However, an emergency needs a systemaRc, evidence based response that is appropriate to the scale of the challenge. “Our NaRonal Transport Strategy (NTS2), which will be launched for public consultaRon later this month, will set the future direcRon for transport over the next 20 years and taking climate acRon will be a priority. “As Scotland’s largest emiMng sector, we know that more needs to be done to meet our net zero target. We are currently commissioning independent research to inform what acRon is needed to decarbonise the ScoMsh Transport Sector. This will consider a range of policy measures across all modes of travel and the findings will inform the NTS2 Delivery Plan as well as the update of the Climate Change Plan.” Background Our second Strategic Transport Project Review (STPR2), which is being undertaken in tandem with the NaRonal Transport Strategy, will set out our strategic transport investment prioriRes for Scotland. STPR2 will look at the best use of exisRng assets and what new infrastructure may or may not need to be built. It will provide a clear alignment with Scotland’s naRonal plans, policies and strategies including the new NTS2 and the forthcoming update of the Climate Change Plan. The Transport Bill is an ambiRous piece of legislaRon covering a wide range of issues which will deliver a cleaner, smarter and more accessible system for the travelling public across Scotland. A number of areas in the Transport Bill will contribute to our emissions reducRon agenda including Low Emission Zones and an improved framework for our bus services. In addiRon we supported the Green Party amendments for a Workplace Parking Levy. All major projects within the ScoMsh Government’s transport porkolio, including the A9 and A96, are subject to regular review and we will conRnue to make considered and measured decisions that fit with our circumstances. We need to balance the extensive changes required to meet a target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions with our duty to ensure that Scotland has high quality infrastructure to meet the needs of all our residents, businesses and visitors. We have a successful rolling programme of rail electrificaRon in Scotland, meaning that by the end of 2019 three quarters of all ScotRail journeys will be under electric tracRon. We are also progressing work to improve rail services on the Highland Mainline. During March 2019, the £55 million phase 2 of the Highland Mainline Enhancements programme was completed as scheduled, providing an immediate performance and resilience enhancement onto the route. By May 2020, a revised Rmetable, currently under development, will deliver journey Rme reducRons and improve service frequency, providing becer connecRvity with the central belt and Inverness. We are acceleraRng the provision of electric vehicle charging points, taking a coordinated approach with local authoriRes, energy network companies and commercial operators. As part of this we are establishing the UK’s first electric trunk road on the A9, ensuring all parts of Scotland benefit from the transiRon to electric vehicles. At the same Rme as supporRng the transiRon to zero emission technology, we are also invesRng over £1 billion per year in public and sustainable transport to encourage people onto public transport and acRve travel modes. CalMac A CalMac spokesman said: “Under the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service contract we were tasked to implement an Environmental Strategy which is now complete. One of the main outputs within the strategy is a commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 5%, which we are on course to achieve by the end of the year. “We fully recognise the risk of climate change and the potenRal impact on our communiRes and operaRons. Along with our targets to reduce our emissions, we are in the process of developing a climate change risk assessment and adaptaRon plan. This is to enhance our understanding of the potenRal impacts of climate change. We want to ensure that as a company we are more resilient and able to make informed decisions for future operaRons.” For further background here’s a link to the Environmental Strategy launch news release: hcps://www.calmac.co.uk/CalMac-cuMng-carbon-as-part-of-new-eco-acRons Highlands and Islands Airports A spokesperson for Highlands and Islands Airports said: “Airport operaRons and expansion of infrastructure have associated environmental impacts and the public are increasingly interested in what is being done to miRgate these impacts. Our environmental and sustainability performance aligns closely with ScoMsh Government targets and policies, but we are striving to do more and aim to exceed government targets. “We are developing an ambiRous environmental strategy to cover the period 2020-2030 and have published our Statement of Strategic IntenRons and Targets via our website so that everyone understands the importance of what we are doing. “HIAL is commiced to conRnually improving our airports’ environmental and sustainability performance, that is why we are developing an Environmental Strategy for 2020-2030. We are very aware of our responsibiliRes to address environmental issues. The full strategy will develop through an iniRal four-year programme beginning in 2019 that includes baseline measurement and implementaRon phases. We will develop and progress our ambiRons through engagement with our staff, stakeholders and regulators. “Air links allow us to connect to the rest of the world and help ensure the more remote parts of the Highlands and Islands retain sustainable and vibrant communiRes. We are supporRng a project that aims to launch the world’s first electric air transport routes. Our aim is to be at the forefront of transiRoning to a low carbon future and will work with Government and others to achieve this. As technology advances cleaner air travel is likely to become more viable and our airports and infrastructure will be required to maximise the opportuniRes presented as the aviaRon industry adapts to the urgent environmental challenges we all face.” Glasgow Prestwick Airport A Glasgow Prestwick Airport spokesperson said: “We are conRnually looking for ways to improve our environmental credenRals and we have implemented a number of iniRaRves to help us achieve this. “With regard to communicaRon from ScoMsh Ministers, you would need to direct that to the ScoMsh Government for a response.” Educa6on Scotland A spokesperson of EducaRon Scotland said: “EducaRon Scotland works collaboraRvely with the ScoMsh Government and other partners to promote understanding of global issues, such as climate change. “EducaRon Scotland updated its Climate Change Briefing in June 2019 to summarise how the theme of climate change is currently being addressed in: · NaRonal educaRon policy · Professional learning and leadership · The management of schools: school buildings, grounds and policies · Curriculum provision (curriculum content, learning and teaching, qualificaRons). “The full briefing can be read at hcps://educaRon.gov.scot/improvement/ Documents/ClimateChangeinScoMshEducaRon.pdf “Also in June 2019, the ScoMsh Government launched the Learning for Sustainability – Vision 2030+ AcRon Plan to support the implementaRon of the recommendaRons in the Vision 2030+ Report. EducaRon Scotland was instrumental in developing this plan, and has been tasked with a number of acRons to progress, in conjuncRon with its partners, including: · Ensuring that quality improvement frameworks conRnue to support improvement and self-evaluaRon in relaRon to Learning for Sustainability. · Ensuring that Learning for Sustainability-relevant senior phase and career pathways are promoted and disseminated within the educaRon sector. The full acRon plan can be read at hcps://educaRon.gov.scot/improvement/ Documents/LearningforSustainability-Vision2030AcRonPlan.pdf “In addiRon, EducaRon Scotland hosts a range of online materials to provide schools with access to high quality curriculum resources and informaRon relaRng to climate change on EducaRon Scotland’s Improvement Hub.” Background informaRon Learning for Sustainability is an enRtlement for learners within Curriculum for Excellence and enables learners to: · to help build a socially-just, sustainable and equitable society · develop the four capaciRes of becoming successful learners, confident individuals, effecRve contributors and responsible ciRzens. The Learning for Sustainability - Vision 2030+ AcRon Plan sets out how the ScoMsh Government and partners, including EducaRon Scotland, will implement the recommendaRons from the Vision 2030+ Report. Vision 2030+ is the final report of the Learning for Sustainability ImplementaRon Group, which provided 31 recommendaRons to ScoMsh Ministers on how Learning for Sustainability could be best promoted within ScoMsh educaRon. This acRon plan gives effect to those recommendaRons. Skills Development Scotland A spokesperson for Skills Development Scotland said: “I can confirm we have received direcRon and guidance from ScoMsh Government on the Climate Change Emergency. It is prominent within our Lecer of Guidance from ScoMsh Government which was published on our website on 7 July. You will see that it is set out as a priority in the opening paragraph and then referenced throughout. “In response, our new 3-year Strategic Plan, published last month, sets out our intent to work more collaboraRvely with the other Skills and Enterprise agencies – ScoMsh Funding Council, ScoMsh Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. We will share resources to help decarbonise Scotland’s economy at pace, both at an organisaRonal level and in the products and services we provide at sector and regional level. “A pracRcal example is partnership work we have undertaken with ScoMsh Government and Zero Waste Scotland to create a Circular Economy Skills Report which will be published in the coming weeks. This report idenRfies the level of understanding business have around the circular economy, the skills and training requirements within the business manufacturing sector, and offers recommendaRons on how to the uptake and adopRon of circular economy pracRces.” As background informaRon, we already have a company Carbon Management strategy in place. Over the last four years we have: - achieved a 25% total carbon footprint reducRon - 40% reducRon in carbon footprint of energy - 6% reducRon in carbon footprint of business travel through regular “limited travel months” - Landfill diversion rate improved from 84% to 89% - improved our Carbon Trust Standard CerRficaRon score from 83% in 2015 to 87% in 2017.” Sco+sh Qualifica6ons Authority A ScoMsh QualificaRons Authority spokesperson said: “SQA is very aware of the need to cut carbon polluRon and fully supports the ScoMsh Government’s objecRve to achieve net zero emissions by 2045, as laid out in May by the Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change. “SQA already has a large number of iniRaRves and processes in place to minimise the impact of its acRviRes on the environment, with a focus on reducing emissions, cuMng waste, and making green business decisions. We work in partnership with bodies such as the Sustainable Scotland Network (SSN), and since 2014, have submiced an annual Climate Change report to ScoMsh Government to monitor progress against climate change targets. “In SQA’s Carbon Management Plan, 2015-2019, a baseline on which to compare carbon emissions was set as the emissions from 2013/14, which equated to 1,643 tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e). In the first three years there was an overall reducRon of 12% on the baseline figure. During the report year of 2017/18 there was a further 12% reducRon on the baseline figure and we are currently on track to achieve our emissions targets for 2018/19. “However, we understand more needs to be done, and are currently developing a new carbon management strategy which will set emissions targets for the next three years. This strategy will reflect the ScoMsh Government’s overall target of becoming carbon neutral by 2045.” Sco+sh Enterprise Please find acached some background informaRon on the specific measures we have put in place to respond to the climate emergency. A few points to highlight: - We are in constant discussion with ScoMsh Government colleagues regarding tackling climate change. The measures outlined in the acached reflect the recent developments, including the climate emergency focus. It is important to note that these measures are an evoluRon of our long standing focus on the low carbon agenda. - Our new strategic framework is more ambiRous and progressive in its approach and focuses on a more collaboraRve way of working to create economic social and environmental success for Scotland. - A demonstraRon of this commitment is that we have seconded Dr MarRn ValenR, an award winning climate change expert, from SEPA to support our approach and to develop nature based opportuniRes to create the right environment for businesses to go beyond compliance and idenRfy opportuniRes for net-zero iniRaRves. Dr MarRn ValenR, head of climate enterprise at ScoMsh Enterprise said: “Tackling climate change has long been a priority for ScoMsh Enterprise. We will conRnue to work with partners, including Government and businesses to shape and deliver Scotland’s response to this fast-changing environment.” Background informaRon from ScoMsh Enterprise ScoMsh Enterprise has worked closely with public sector, industrial and academic partners to develop a broad, co-ordinated programme of acRons supporRng the ScoMsh Government climate change targets and ambiRons. Most recently these have reflected the response to the Commicee on Climate Change report, the adopRon of Net Zero targets and the response to the government’s recogniRon of a global climate emergency. Climate change is one of the biggest risks to the future resilience of the global economy. A move to a low carbon world economy could deliver huge economic growth and job- creaRng benefits for innovaRve businesses. We recognise that the threat of climate change cannot be miRgated by the efforts of a handful of business, agencies and governments, though. It will take a concentrated, coordinated and cohesive effort on a global scale. ScoMsh Enterprise has a criRcal role in shaping and delivering Scotland’s response to this fast-changing environment. As outlined in our new strategic framework, we must build resilience and ensure we realise new opportuniRes as they arrive. We need to innovate our way into new economic territory. We are focused on delivering a broad, co-ordinated programme of acRons that will help Scotland achieve net zero emissions by 2045. This includes: Engagement and alignment of partners around the most significant economic opportuniRes for Scotland FacilitaRng development of innovaRve soluRons and the clusters that build Scotland’s capabiliRes URlising the skills, experRse and assets of all of Scotland and its regions Leveraging investment into innovaRve soluRons Taking innovaRve soluRons to ScoMsh and internaRonal markets ScoMsh Enterprise conRnues to closely support the energy sector as it draws upon its company base and innovaRon ecosystem to reduce costs of offshore wind, Rdal and wave energy. We have key strengths in offshore and underwater engineering, and the energy sector overall is rapidly developing transformaRonal technologies based on digital and data based technologies. Most recently we have prioriRsed three significant programmes: DecarbonisaRon of the transport sector, focusing on smart mobility and on the potenRal for hydrogen fuel for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. SupporRng CCUS with a focus on industrial decarbonisaRon in energy intensive industries and the repurposing of oil and gas infrastructure for carbon storage. Local Energy Systems in Island, Rural, Industrial and Urban locaRons. We are also providing support for the food and drink industry, supporRng the low carbon transiRon for the oil & gas industry and Scotland’s internaRonal opportuniRes in clean water and renewables High-level examples of our iniRaRves that support the transiRon to a low carbon economy include: The funding of demonstraRon projects and R&D programmes Investment in manufacturing sites The commissioning of research The provision of business advice and support to companies Forging connecRons within and outwith the renewable & low carbon sector We recently submiced evidence to the ScoMsh Parliament’s Environment Climate Change and Land Reform Commicee, you can read it in full at the following link: hcps://www.parliament.scot/S5_Environment/Inquiries/ 028_ScoMsh_Enterrprise.pdf. Highlands and Islands Enterprise Audrey MacIver, director of energy and low carbon at Highland and Islands Enterprsise, said: “Our strategy and operaRng plan was developed in conjuncRon with the ScoMsh Government and the other enterprise and skills agencies. It recognises that the climate emergency is one of the biggest risks to the future resilience of the global economy and takes account of the Ministerial ambiRons to address this. We recognise that the transiRon to ‘Net Zero’ presents the region with parRcular economic opportuniRes as well as challenges across all sectors and will have far reaching impacts on consumers and communiRes. “In conducRng an orderly response to the climate emergency, we will support businesses and communiRes in the drive towards being a carbon neutral country by 2040, including prioriRsing investments that achieve the longer-term impacts required. Our region has an excepRonally high renewable energy resource and, with our strong support, the sector will conRnue to contribute substanRally to the country’s climate change ambiRons, whilst generaRng new jobs and sustaining communiRes. More broadly, we consider the low carbon impact in all our intervenRons and will conRnue to review and refine our approach in the context of the ScoMsh Government’s heightened commitments.” Sco+sh Water A spokesperson for ScoMsh Water said: “We welcome the ScoMsh Government’s ambiRous net zero goal in response to the evidence presented by the UK Climate Change Commicee. We recognise the scale of change across the economy that net zero demands, and are working to understand the challenge this presents to us, and the plans and strategies we will need to help Scotland achieve these goals. “ScoMsh Water takes its responsibility to protect the environment and the challenges we face around the impacts of climate change extremely seriously and we are working to reduce our Greenhouse Gas Emissions across our acRviRes, whilst ensuring our services remain resilient. “We have undertaken a number of acRviRes and made good progress in reducing our carbon footprint and impact. “AcRviRes across our organisaRon include investment in energy efficiency, renewable power from hydro, solar and wind, peatland restoraRon and sustainable land management, developing low carbon treatment soluRons, and piloRng energy efficient vehicles in our fleet. “Already more than 70 of ScoMsh Water’s water and waste water treatment works are now either fully or partly self-sufficient in their power requirements, leading to lower operaRng costs, smaller carbon footprint, and a more sustainable business. “We have met our current business plan objecRves on renewables and energy efficiency target two years early, but recognise there is even more to do and we will work with the ScoMsh Government and stakeholders to develop the business plans that will support Scotland’s net zero carbon milestones over the next 25 years.” AddiRonal/background informaRon ScoMsh Water’s carbon footprint has fallen by 41% since we first reported it in 2006/7. We are working with our capital investment delivery partners to reduce carbon footprint in the delivery of our £3 billion investment programme to deliver resilient and robust water and waste water networks and services. Sco+sh Forestry A spokesperson for ScoMsh Forestry said: “As part of ScoMsh Government, ScoMsh Forestry is working with its partners within ScoMsh Government and beyond to develop Scotland’s response and approach to tackling the global climate emergency. “Tree planRng is a crucial element in tackling the global climate emergency and removing carbon from the atmosphere, and Scotland is playing its part, creaRng 84% of all new woodland in the UK in 2018-19. “The ScoMsh Government has commiced to ambiRous increases in planRng targets over the next few years. ScoMsh Forestry is increasing its focus and drive on further supporRng the naRonal endeavour to increase rates of tree planRng, a er seeing the 2018-19 target smashed with 11,200 hectares of woodland created, including 1000 hectares created by Forestry and Land Scotland on Scotland’s naRonal forests and land.” Sco+sh Natural Heritage A spokesperson for ScoMsh Natural Heritage said: “The Cabinet Secretary has made clear it is the responsibility of all organisaRons to step up to the challenges posed by the climate emergency. As the lead agency for the ScoMsh Government in sustaining biodiversity, ScoMsh Natural Heritage (SNH) is at the forefront of that response. “The UKCCC (UK Commicee on Climate Change) Report and the IPBES (Intergovernmental Science-Policy Plakorm on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services) Report together posiRon nature as a key part of the soluRon to the Climate Emergency. In May our Chief ExecuRve Francesca Osowska delivered a speech at the Royal Society of Edinburgh highlighRng how enhancing our nature is part of the soluRon to the climate emergency. “Our work is informed by the findings of the IPBES Report, which idenRfied five main drivers of biodiversity loss: · Changing use of the land and sea, especially for agriculture, forestry and coastal infrastructure; · Direct exploitaRon of organisms via harvesRng, logging, hunRng and fishing; · Climate change; · PolluRon; and · Invasive non-naRve species “Climate change is especially problemaRc because as well as a driver in its own right, it intensifies all of the other drivers. SNH is working in partnership to tackle each of these main drivers. “Since early 2019, we have been updaRng our Climate Change AcRon Plan, making our climate change work more proacRve and becer integrated across our remit. We aim to publish our new high-level climate change strategy this autumn, and later in 2019 will issue a detailed acRon plan which will be regularly updated. “We know we have a big task before us but we have been working for years with our partners to meet internaRonal nature targets. We are ready to deliver the transformaRonal change needed to bring a nature rich future for Scotland. “Globally, we have been given deadlines to act before it’s too late. We will be at the forefront of pioneering work to restore our habitats, protect our species and promote nature.” Examples of SNH acRons taken over recent months to address the key, five areas: - Peatland restoraRon – We are building on robust work already completed by our Peatland AcRon project with an addiRonal £11 million of funding announced by the ScoMsh Government in June. The restoraRon work we are taking forward includes improving areas of wetlands by reducing drainage and slowing water flow on peatland, as well as covering areas of peat exposed to the elements, helping to lock in carbon and reduce potenRally harmful C02 emissions. - Biodiversity Challenge Fund – In June we confirmed funding of £1.8 million over a two-year period through our Biodiversity Challenge Fund for projects that will take pracRcal steps to improve natural habitats, safeguard plant and animal species and improve biodiversity. One of the funding prioriRes was habitats affected by climate change. - Green Infrastructure Fund - We will shortly be announcing further investment to make our urban environments more nature friendly, parRcularly within our more underprivileged communiRes, through our Green Infrastructure Fund. Between now and 2023 we will be working in around 30 underprivileged areas to deliver projects which improve their greenspace and encourage all sectors of the community to make best use of it and connect with nature. - Marine Protected Areas (MPA) consultaRon – Over the summer we are leading on a series of consultaRon events around the country in the next step for plans for four possible Marine Protected Areas for Scotland's seas. Understanding ‘blue carbon’ - the carbon captured by the world's coastal ocean ecosystems - is vital for our efforts to combat climate change. - Non-naRve invasive species – Climate change increases the ability of non-naRve invasive species to spread, and take a hold, in Scotland. In May, our partnership ScoMsh Invasive Species IniRaRve ran a series of events during NaRonal Invasive Species Week to raise awareness of invasive non-naRve species such as Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed and American mink and the threat they pose to local nature as well as encourage community and volunteer involvement in their control. Last year 342 volunteers undertook invasive plant control as part of the project, with 736km of giant hogweed treated, while 195 volunteers helped to monitor mink ra s. We are also working closely with partners, farmers and landowners to help them to manage sites in a way that tackles invasive species and overgrazing on protected areas. - Nature conference - In May we hosted more than 35 agencies, NGOs, research bodies, local authoriRes and communiRes for a conference to address the state of nature in Scotland and agree the next steps needed to tackle biodiversity loss. In relaRon to emissions reducRon, SNH is working towards running its pool car fleet without fossil-based fuels by 2026, and has expanded its network of EV charging points at its offices across Scotland. We have installed 22kw rapid public charging points at Dingwall, Inverness, Bacleby and SNH use points at Aviemore and Dingwall. This adds to our exisRng SNH use charging points at Golspie, Inverness, Bacleby, Edinburgh and Kinross. Our Senior Leadership Team have been reporRng (through internal blogs) on their use of electric vehicles for travel to locaRons not served by public transport, demonstraRng and leading behaviour change. Sco+sh Environment Protec6on Agency A spokesperson for the ScoMsh Environment ProtecRon Agency said: “For nearly three years, under the direcRon of ScoMsh Government, SEPA has driven its pioneering regulatory strategy – One Planet Prosperity. The ambiRous and progressive strategy, recognises that whilst environmental compliance is nonnegoRable, climate change, environmental, social and economic success will require systemic rather than incremental change from ScoMsh business. “ReflecRng the scale of the environmental challenge facing humanity and the urgency to act, uRlising the Regulatory Reform Act, SEPA is changing today, creaRng a world-class environment protecRon agency fit for the challenges of tomorrow. Working with ScoMsh Government and reflecRng the ambiRon of the Cabinet Secretary, we’re acceleraRng how we’re transforming our approach to regulaRon. “We’ve introduced or consulRng on sixteen ‘sector plans’ for ScoMsh industries which will drive compliance and ‘beyond compliance’ systemic change and innovaRon from ScoMsh business, including a focus on reducing energy, material and water resources. We’ve signed seven ‘Sustainable Growth Agreements’ with partner organisaRons that reflect a shared ambiRon for pracRcal acRon to deliver environmental outcomes. One agreement alone with leading ScoMsh insulaRon specialist Superglass is saving circa 47.5 million kWh of energy per year, and environmental compliance of ScoMsh business more broadly has exceeded over 90% for the third year in a row. “We’re helping Scotland prepare more powerfully for future increased flooding, using principles set out in the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009. Using the latest Met Office climate predicRons, our recently published NaRonal Flood Risk Assessment idenRfied 284,000 homes, businesses and services across Scotland at risk from flooding and 235 potenRally vulnerable areas where significant flood risk exists now or is likely to occur in the future. In addiRon to our 375 day a year flood forecasRng and warning service, we’ll shortly consult on a refreshed One Planet Prosperity : Flood Risk Strategy. “Our Climate Change Commitment Statement details the twenty-one acRons we will achieve to meet our six climate change commitments. Of these five have been completed and the remainder are on-going. Whilst our greenhouse gas emissions have reduced by almost 40% since 2007 we are reviewing our commitments with a view to achieving net zero emissions by 2045.” Historic Environment Scotland A spokesperson from Historic Environment Scotland said: “Following the announcement of a Climate Emergency by the First Minister on 28th April 2019, Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Climate Change announced on 2nd May new naRonal emissions reducRon targets and a major policy review. Proposed new targets are: 70% reducRon by 2030; 90% by 2040; and net zero emissions by 2045. These are to be presented in a new Climate Change Bill this year. “Historic Environment Scotland welcomes the new SG climate change targets. “The Rming provides an opportunity to further align our objecRves with the new targets and increase our ambiRons accordingly with our new Climate Change and Environmental AcRon Plan, which we recently put out to a public consultaRon and we are currently processing responses to. “AddiRonally our Carbon Management Plan (CMP) is due for review in 2020, and we are planning to bring this review forward in order to incorporate the new targets.” This will look at a number of areas including the following: • Low Emission Vehicles • DomesRc HeaRng and energy efficiency • Procurement • Tourism Visit Scotland A spokesman for VisitScotland said: “VisitScotland believes that the success of Scotland’s tourism industry rests on protecRng and enhancing the ScoMsh environment, society and culture, and supports the ScoMsh Government’s commitment to transiRon to a low carbon society and its ambiRous climate change targets. “Our own commitment to implement measures within the organisaRon to miRgate climate change has already seen a 72% reducRon in VisitScotland’s CO2 emissions and we will conRnue to review our acRviRes to idenRfy opportuniRes to further reduce emissions. “Our ongoing work with industry partners to measure the environmental and social impacts of tourism ensures that tourism development brings a posiRve experience for local people, tourism companies and visitors themselves, whilst protecRng the environment.” Background We recently received strategic guidance from the ScoMsh Government, which includes the declared climate emergency, which our senior team is working through. - VisitScotland’s Sustainability Policy outlines the key objecRves for the organisaRon to support Scotland being a sustainable desRnaRon, covering aspects such as resource efficiency, low carbon transport, and adaptaRon, which relate directly to climate change, as well as areas such as inclusive tourism, community engagement, protecRon of natural and cultural heritage, and quality jobs. - As at 31 March 2019, VisitScotland had achieved a 72% reducRon in CO2 emissions (from 2008/9 baseline), which exceeds the current 2020 target of 42% (the Climate Change Bill currently going through parliament is likely to include revised targets). - Emission reducRons conRnue to be achieved through an on-going programme of increasing efficiency, driving down resource use (e.g. energy use in buildings, business travel), waste reducRon, as well as changes within the VisitScotland estate. - VisitScotland also supports the work of Zero Waste Scotland and the waste reducRon and recycling targets set, which will have an impact on climate change miRgaRon, and we are working with all our sites to reduce waste and increase recycling. Examples of some of the acRons we have undertaken over the last couple years to reduce our own carbon emissions: - Almost all of our iCentres and local offices are cerRfied by the Green Tourism, which assesses a wide range of acRons, including resource efficiency (energy, water and waste) and promoRon of low carbon transport, as well as collecRng data on member’s key carbon emission. Currently 39% of cerRfied sites have achieved a Gold award and 61% a Silver award. - We have capped CO2 emissions of our Lease car fleet to 120g/km and are reviewing opportuniRes to further reduce this in future. We also work with our partners and look to influence improvements in the visitor economy across Scotland: - We work closely with transport partners (e.g. ScotRail, East Coast Rail, Caledonian MacBrayne and NorthLink Ferries) to further develop and promote sustainable transport opRons across Scotland. - Since January 2015 we have incorporated minimum sustainability requirements into our Quality Assurance scheme and have increased the minimum requirements for all industry sectors since then to encourage conRnuous improvement. Advice and support on becoming more sustainable and resource efficient is provided to businesses through the Quality and Tourism Advisors, as well as materials that are available on visitscotland.org. Audit Scotland A spokesperson for Audit Scotland said: “We’ve not had any guidance from ScoMsh Ministers on how to respond to the climate emergency. “There’s lots going on here but they were in moRon before the FM’s announcement on 28 April. “We’re currently reviewing our climate change plan, which is due for publicaRon in April 2020. It has a range of projects to help us conRnue to reduce our climate emissions, including: Policy development - Producing a new Climate Change Plan, including reseMng our carbon emission targets - Developing and implemenRng a biodiversity policy/strategy - Developing a sustainable travel plan Behaviours - Introducing climate change inducRon training - Exploring opRons for staff volunteering, especially those relaRng to sustainability projects Projects - Moving more services to cloud based applicaRons allows us to reduce our use of computer servers through greater use of cloud-based applicaRons. - Running a cycle-to-work scheme - ParRcipaRng in Climate Scotland week to promote awareness of sustainability issues - PromoRng a limited internal travel month to encourage staff to think about how they can reduce their travel Extra informaRon • • • • • Our (current) Climate change plan 2015-2020 sets our base line year and targets to be achieved by 2019/20. We conRnue to make good progress in reducing our carbon emissions and are ahead of our 2019/20 target to reduce our annual carbon emissions to no more than 292 tCO2e. So far, we have achieved an overall 32 per cent reducRon in our carbon footprint compared to our 2014/15 baseline year, and a 56 per cent reducRon against our 2008/09 baseline. Sustainability is linked to other corporate publicaRons published on our website including our Annual Report and Accounts, Public Audit in Scotland, and Corporate Plan 2018-21. We are commiced to further reducing our carbon emissions and to making how we work more sustainable. We report publicly on sustainability issues through our environmental and sustainability annual report (next due for publicaRon in November 2019) and by supplying relevant informaRon to the Sustainable Scotland Network (SSN). Audit Scotland has a clear structure for managing climate change acRvity. The Audit Scotland Board, following consideraRon by Audit Scotland's Management Team, approves our Climate Change Plan and carbon-saving targets. This approach ensures endorsement and clear leadership at the highest level. The Green Future Team, comprising representaRon from across Audit Scotland, will conRnue to provide long-term organisaRonal momentum for embedding sustainability across the organisaRon. Sco+sh Funding Council A spokesperson for the ScoMsh Funding Council said: “As a public body we receive regular Lecers of Guidance from ScoMsh Ministers. Our latest Lecer of Guidance was received at the beginning of this month and is published on our website(hcp:// www.sfc.ac.uk/web/FILES/AboutUs/SFC_Lecer_of_Guidance_2019-20.pdf). “Para 31 (copied below) makes specific menRon of the climate emergency: “In light of the global climate emergency and advice from the UK Commicee on Climate Change, the ScoMsh Government has lodged amendments to the Climate Change Bill that will see Scotland’s contribuRon to climate change end within a generaRon. We invite the SFC to work with universiRes and colleges to develop a more ambiRous agenda on climate change with increased sector commitments on greenhouse gas emissions reducRon, plasRc polluRon and contribuRon to the Sustainable Development Goals. We will update the Climate Change Plan within 6 months of the Bill receiving Royal Assent and would welcome the SFC’s contribuRon to that process. With the SFC’s support, Scotland has already almost halved emissions since 1990 while growing the economy, increasing employment and producRvity. It is important that we conRnue in this vein and I expect you to play a central role in achieving that.” “Last month SFC published its latest strategic framework and operaRonal plan (hcp://www.sfc.ac.uk/web/FILES/StrategicFramework/ ScoMsh_Funding_Council_Strategic_Framework_2019-2022.pdf) which has objecRves relaRng to climate change (p28). These are: · PrioriRsing and implemenRng carbon reducRon capital investment programmes to meet the Climate Change Act targets and to respond to the ScoMsh Government’s renewed focus. · SupporRng college and university contribuRons to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. “In terms of what we are currently doing to address the climate emergency, the following gives an overview of our acRviRes: · We require (through our Outcome Agreements) all ScoMsh universiRes and colleges to demonstrate leadership in embedding sustainability across the whole insRtuRon · We are providing a programme of up to £120m of university capital funding which includes projects aimed at carbon footprint reducRon. We esRmate that the projects that took place as a result of the first round of this funding will collecRvely save 8,945 tonnes of carbon per year – seehcp://www.sfc.ac.uk/news/2019/ news-71861.aspx · We fund carbon capture research in ScoMsh universiRes including SCCS, the largest research group of its kind in the UK (see hcp://www.sccs.org.uk) · We fund the ConstrucRon Scotland InnovaRon Centre (CSIC) which is commiced to finding greener ways to build and run our homes. CSIC recently created an online materials library to help building professionals access informaRon about sustainable design, resource efficiency and low carbon building. · We fund the ScoMsh InsRtute for Remanufacturing to help develop the circular economy. · We fund EAUC Scotland (hcps://www.eauc.org.uk/scotland). EAUC provides sustainability leadership, training, and resources for colleges and universiRes. . EAUC has now invited all insRtuRons to join the declaraRon of the Climate Emergency, commiMng to a three-point plan which includes mobilising more resources for acRon-oriented climate change research and skills creaRon; commiMng to going carbon neutral by 2030 or 2050 at the very latest; and increasing the delivery of environmental and sustainability educaRon across curriculum, campus and community outreach programmes. · We fund Interface, an organisaRon that connects SMEs to university research departments. This has supported several innovaRons in the energy sector including an energy storage system (hcp://www.sfc.ac.uk/news/2017/interfaceawards-2017.aspx ) and a roadside micro wind turbinehcp://www.sfc.ac.uk/news/ 2017/capture-mobility.aspx · Finally, we have a carbon management plan for SFC itself. We have been measuring our carbon footprint since 2007-08. By 2014 we had exceeded our original target of a 40% reducRon (we achieved 54%). We are currently working towards a target of 30% less than the 2014 posiRon (106 tCO2). “As per our Lecer of Guidance from Ministers we will be working with universiRes and colleges to develop a more ambiRous agenda on climate change and expect the acRviRes outlined above to intensify as a result of the global climate emergency.” Sco+sh Futures Trust A spokesperson for ScoMsh Futures Trust said: “The delivery of carbon-neutral infrastructure is central to ScoMsh Government’s NaRonal Infrastructure Mission. To that end, SFT is conRnuing to look for ways to embed low carbon as a core element across our infrastructure investment programmes to support the commitment to net zero carbon by 2045. “In our current 2019-24 Corporate Plan (published in April 2019), we have set out ten outcomes. Our specific low carbon outcome states ‘Infrastructure-related carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, supporRng Scotland’s transiRon to a low carbon economy.’ “In our 2019/20 Business Plan (published in April 2019) we highlight the following low carbon infrastructure related business objecRves: - Through the Low Carbon Infrastructure TransiRon Programme we will provide financial and commercial input to deliver six investment grade business cases and progress four projects into capital support stage - We will provide commercial input to the development, delivery and expansion of low carbon heat opportuniRes; this will include the development and promoRon of guidance and a new tariff modelling tool for heat to be launched by September 2019 - We will provide commercial input and develop innovaRve approaches including a financing pilot for domesRc energy efficiency in support of the Energy Efficient Scotland programme - We will engage with external stakeholders to agree acRons required for new public sector buildings across Scotland to be near zero carbon in advance of 2050, assisRng at least one procuring authority to define appropriate ambiRous operaRonal energy targets for a new build project - We will develop financing and delivery model opRons for electric vehicle charging infrastructure to acract the investment and acRvity required to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2032 “Since the climate emergency announcement we have engaged with our stakeholders to affirm how these ambiRous objecRves are supporRng ScoMsh Government in addressing climate emergency noRng, for example, the specific net zero carbon by 2045 target. “Corporately, we aim to minimise our carbon emissions and publish an annual sustainability report detailing our acRviRes which impact upon carbon emissions and our targets for carbon reducRon. “SFT’s carbon impact primarily relates to the electricity we use (which is 100% renewable) and the travel our staff need to undertake to support our programmes. Our policy is to make use of digital communicaRon technology to reduce the need to travel and when travel is necessary to prioriRse the use of public transport.” Sco+sh Public Pensions Agency
 
 A spokesperson for the ScoMsh Public Pensions Agency said: “SPPA is commiced to improving environmental performance as part of the wider commitment to sustainable development. “We will conRnue to explore new ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions working in collaboraRon across the ScoMsh Government to idenRfy new opportuniRes and share best pracRce.” Background More informaRon on SPPA environmental performance can be found on our websitehcps://pensions.gov.scot/corporate-publicaRons/environmentalperformance-targets Sco+sh Court and Tribunals A spokesperson for the ScoMsh Courts and Tribunals said: “The ScoMsh Government has set ambiRous sustainability outcomes through its NaRonal Performance Framework and challenging targets through its Climate Change Plan – in which the current agenda for both the public sector and Scotland as a whole is set out. As a dedicated public sector “Major Player” on climate change SCTS has taken forward a range of iniRaRves which have made significant inroads into our carbon output and our approach to sustainability. “The SCTS has detailed and extensive measures already in place which have led to a more than 50% reducRon in carbon emissions in eight years. “SCTS is one of the very few public sector holders of the presRgious Carbon Trust Triple Standard for successfully cuMng carbon emissions, water use and waste. “The Triple Standard builds on a decade of achievement by SCTS stretching back to 2008 when the service first received the Carbon Standard. SCTS became the first ScoMsh public sector body to achieve the Water Standard in 2014 and in 2018 gained the Waste Standard to make up the Triple award. “Since 2011 SCTS’s carbon footprint has fallen by 1670 tonnes of carbon equivalent – the same as the emissions from powering 1620 homes for a whole year or driving an average car to the Moon and back 77 Rmes. This has been achieved through a variety of iniRaRves: • Boiler upgrades and heaRng controls improvements; • IntroducRon of solar photo voltaic PV panels; • Window replacement and secondary glazing; • Waste management surveys and the introducRon of more recycling bins; • Energy and water efficient appliances; • Water recycling. “SCTS also takes part in a number of other projects to promote sustainability such as the Earth Hour event and the ScoMsh Workplace Journey Challenge and is presently piloRng the JUMP iniRaRve which encourages staff members to parRcipate in a range of acRviRes under the themes of Waste and Recycling, Energy Saving, Water Saving, Health and Wellbeing, Sustainable Travel and Engagement.” Crea6ve Scotland A spokesperson for CreaRve Scotland said: “CreaRve Scotland, like all Government bodies in Scotland, has a statutory requirement under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, to act: - In the way best calculated to contribute to delivery of the Act’s emissions reducRon targets; and - In a way that it considers most sustainable. “The duRes came into force on 1 January 2011. “The ScoMsh Government has a target of cuMng CO2 emissions by 42% by 2020 and it encourages all public bodies to set their own targets to help achieve this naRonal aim through miRgaRon, adaptaRon and acRng sustainably. “As a public body, CreaRve Scotland is required to develop and implement an environment policy and to report against this annually.This Environment Policy is embedded this into our 10-Year Plan (2014) as one of our four ConnecRng Themes. To read this policy please visit: hcps://www.creaRvescotland.com/ resources/our-publicaRons/policies/environment-policy “We also demonstrate how we as an organisaRon and the organisaRons we support, contribute to an environmentally aware and sustainable Scotland. “See our Environment AcRon Plan for 2018-21, which sets out in detail what CreaRve Scotland does already to deliver the above and what we intend to do in the future: hcps://www.creaRvescotland.com/resources/our-publicaRons/plans-andstrategy-documents/environment-acRon-plan" Sco+sh Fire and Rescue Service A ScoMsh Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "We remain commiced to working in partnership with the ScoMsh Government to tackle climate change. "Our commitment as a Service to minimise our direct impact on the environment is strong, and we will put detailed plans in place on how we will seek to achieve this, as outlined in our dra strategic plan 2019-22. "Indeed we are currently looking at ways we can reduce the emissions produced by our fleet of emergency vehicles. "We are also working towards the vision of having an enRrely electric fleet of light vehicles.” Police Scotland A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We are commiced to invesRng in and building a sustainable service, and while we recognise the challenges ahead this work is well under way. "Our Estates Strategy, published in May, set out our plans to reduce our carbon footprint by a fi h, we are already introducing electric vehicles into our fleet and will shortly be launching a campaign to reduce electrical and water waste across our buildings." Sco+sh Prison Service A spokesperson for the ScoMsh Prison Service said: “The SPS has not received any specific direcRon or guidance in respect of the “climate emergency” from ScoMsh Ministers. We did however receive a request to provide an update on “high level acRons that jusRce agencies are taking to reduce environmental emissions to tackle climate change”. Our response is detailed below. · The ScoMsh Prison Service (SPS) developed a Carbon Management Strategy 2015 – 2021 (dra ) to guide organisaRonal climate change acRviRes. ImplementaRon of the Strategy is directed and overseen by an organisaRonal Carbon Management Strategy Board which is chaired by the Director of Strategy and Stakeholder Engagement. · The SPS has just completed a mid-term review of the acRviRes being undertaken in implementaRon of the strategy which highlighted that there has been a 14.7% reducRon in CO2e emissions across the estate since the start of 2015. This surpasses the 10% target in the Strategy. As a result the target has been reset for a 25% reducRon from the baseline figure to be achieved by the end of the financial year 2020/21. This reducRon can be acributed to: § Delivery of carbon reducRon projects contribuRng to a 6.5% drop in grid supplied electricity since 2014/2015; § A significant reducRon of the carbon conversion factor applied to grid supplied electricity, this is down 28% from 2014/15; and § A significant reducRon in the use of gas oil within prisons, down 57% since 2014/15. “The latest SPS Climate Change DuRes Report may also provide further informaRon. You can access that athcps://sustainablescotlandnetwork.org/reports/the-scoMshprison-service" Crown Estate Scotland Colin Palmer, Head of Marine at Crown Estate Scotland said: “Our work to reduce climate change emissions includes new seabed leasing for commercial-scale offshore wind projects to help Scotland move towards a net zero economy, and our ongoing support for the Acorn carbon capture and storage project off the north east coast. We’re also exploring how offshore renewables can be used in local energy systems, with some really exciRng potenRal for island and coastal communiRes.” Na6onal Museums Scotland A spokesperson for NaRonal Museums Scotland said: “NaRonal Museums Scotland is not an agency of the ScoMsh Government. It is a non-departmental public body with a board of trustees. “NaRonal Museums Scotland has not received any guidance from the ScoMsh Government on the climate emergency.” NHS Na6onal Services Scotland A spokesperson for NHS NaRonal Services Scotland said: “Your request is being treated as a freedom of informaRon request.” No responses from two public bodies No responses were received from two bodies: NHS Health Scotland and ScoMsh Ambulance Service.