The instruction in the recent Stop Climate Chaos Scotland online election debate was “Ask the climate question”. Large numbers turned up, and logged on, to put questions to Holyrood candidates. The debate covered issues such as the future of oil extraction in Scotland, transport priorities and the need for government, communities and individuals to act. The shift in perspective was striking. Since the huge climate marches in Scotland and around the world of December last year, and since the agreement on climate action in Paris, there is a growing momentum for action with a question: Will we do enough and in time? The science, worsening weather events, continuing record temperature rises, consequences of inaction – all demand strong action now. Our Stop Climate Chaos Scotland election manifesto “Securing a low carbon Scotland for 2020 and beyond” sets out key priorities against which voters can measure that commitment – action for energy efficiency and renewable heat for homes; help for people to move from cars to public transport, walking and cycling; using air passenger duty to cut emissions; and an ambitious strategy on saving emissions through the way we use land. We suggest decisions about long-lasting infrastructure should help us to a fossil -fuel-free economy. Scotland should reinforce its financial support on climate change for people in the developing world. Investment, incentives and regulation across government should be used to help, not hinder, the move to a low carbon future.
Scotsman 2nd May 2016 read more »