« Previous | Contents | Next »
Listen
Introduction
Scotland's climate has already started to change. Winter rainfall has increased dramatically, frost and snow are becoming rarer and the growing season has lengthened significantly 1. These changes are already affecting our plants, birds, fish, animals and insects. Our grass needs cutting in January. And we know that our climate will continue to change.
Scotland's Climate Change Programme, Changing our Ways 2, sets out how the Scottish Executive is responding to the urgent social, economic and environmental challenge of climate change. It quantifies Scotland's equitable contribution to UK climate change commitments in carbon terms - the Scottish Share - and has set an ambitious Target to exceed this by 1 million tonnes of carbon savings in 2010. The Programme sets out actions to reduce all greenhouse gases but most measures focus upon carbon dioxide which makes up the greatest proportion of greenhouse gases. The Scottish Share and Target are therefore expressed in terms of tonnes of carbon.
Scotland's Climate Change Programme is work in progress towards a goal in 2010 and this is the first in a series of annual reports. There has been encouraging progress and work on the future commitments is mainly on track.
World and UK developments
Perhaps the most significant climate change development on the world stage this year was the publication of the Stern Review of the Economics of Climate Change 3, launched on 30 October 2006. This seminal report confirms the seriousness of the threat to the global economy and provides a compelling economic case for immediate global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Unabated, destructive climate change could cost as much as 20% of global GDP, but by taking action now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to avoid the worst impacts of climate change the costs can be limited to around 1% of global GDP.
The United Nations Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change ( IPCC) published a new report in January 2007: "The Physical Science Basis of Climate Change" 4. The report refines the IPCC's predictions of climate change and concludes that there is now indisputable evidence that human activities since 1750 have warmed the climate. Global average surface temperature may increase by up to 4 degrees Celsius by 2100, compared with an increase of around 0.74 degrees over the past century.
The EU continues to take a lead internationally, with the world's only statutory cap and trade scheme, the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, which regulates about 50% of our carbon dioxide emissions. This year saw the publication of the allocations for Phase II of the scheme (2008-2012). The UK's cap is considered to be tight and by 2010 it is expected to provide a reduction of 29.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide compared to the level at which emissions would otherwise be without the scheme. The UK's lead has helped influence the European Commission to take a firm stance towards other Member States' National Allocation Plans.
The UK Government has brought forward a number of new developments. A new Office of Climate Change has been created as a think-tank resource for all government departments. The UK Government's report on the Energy Review 5 was released on 11 July 2006. It announced measures to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and deliver secure, clean energy at affordable prices, as we move to increasing dependence on imported energy. A UK Climate Change Bill to create statutory targets for reductions in carbon dioxide emissions and a statutory advisory body will be published for consultation before the end of this month.
Leadership
We know that Scotland's emissions are a tiny fraction of world emissions and that no one country can resolve climate change alone, but we recognise our responsibility to play our part like every nation and our responsibility as a developed nation to lead by example and inspire others. Our emissions are falling: the latest data show that greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland fell by around 16% between 1990 and 2004, and at the same time our economy grew by 32%. Tackling climate change can bring clear benefits to Scotland: new jobs, cost savings, improved local environments and economic growth.
Scotland is active in international efforts to tackle climate change, being amongst the first to sign the Montreal Declaration recognising the important role which states and regions have in building momentum towards a concerted international response. In November 2006 Scotland was proud to be a founding member of the States and Regions Climate Alliance, launched at the twelfth UN Framework Climate Change Convention Conference of the Parties in Nairobi. The Alliance will share experiences and best practice with other regions and developing countries. Being at the forefront of efforts to tackle climate change has the added benefit of bringing opportunities for Scottish businesses, developing and producing technology for use both here and abroad.
Scottish developments this year
In the year since Scotland's Climate Change Programme was published there have been a number of significant developments in Scotland. Common workstreams run through each of these sectors: building our knowledge base through data collection and research; ensuring that climate change is integrated at the highest level of strategy so that there is consistency across policies, and finally taking action to reduce emissions or adapt to the consequences of climate change, either through financial support, regulation, encouragement or the public sector's own activities.
It is essential to have a strong research and evidence base on which to develop new policies. We have established a Climate Change Analysts Group to improve the Executive's capacity to analyse the carbon impact of new policies. There has been global interest in our soils research which developed a new model to predict greenhouse gas emissions in organic soils under various climate change and land use scenarios. The Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership ( MCCIP) has launched its first Annual Report Card 6, bringing together data and information on the effects of climate change on the UK seas for the first time.
Climate change must be integrated in our strategies for every sector if we are to have a coherent, joined-up approach. We have established a Climate Change Delivery Group of senior managers across the Executive to champion the work to integrate climate change into everything the Executive does.
We have published Scotland's National Transport Strategy 7 and the Scottish Forestry Strategy 8, and consultation on an Energy Efficiency and Microgeneration Strategy is imminent. We therefore have new strategies in the three most significant sectors for greenhouse gas emissions and removals in Scotland: energy, transport and forestry, and have ensured that climate change is a key theme of each. Each strategy sets out indicators and there will be regular progress reports so that we can be held to account. We are developing a transport carbon balance sheet to present the carbon impact of transport policies and projects, whether positive or negative.
Such work to provide a strong knowledge base and clear strategic direction are the foundation stones for successful action to tackle climate change, and it is beginning to bear fruit. Good progress is being made towards Scotland's challenging renewable generation targets. Figures released by DTI earlier this year reveal that the 2010 target (to generate 18% of Scotland's electricity from renewable sources) was met in 2005, 5 years ahead of schedule, mainly through hydro generation and on-shore wind. Our recycling record continues to improve: recycling and composting of municipal waste increased from 17.3% to 24.4% in the last year.
Addressing climate change will only be successful if everyone accepts responsibility and adopts more sustainable patterns of behaviour. We are encouraging other sectors of Scottish society to take action. By signing Scotland's Climate Change Declaration in January 2007, Scotland's local authorities have committed to working together with the Scottish Executive and other public bodies to address climate change. Key Scottish businesses will be working together to improve how they tackle climate change - sharing best practice and challenging each other to do more to tackle climate change. The "It's Our Future" campaign 9, launched in October 2006, will raise awareness of sustainable development and help to encourage people to take action now to make Scotland, and the world we live in, a more sustainable place.
These are a few highlights of the developments this year; the report cards set out in more detail the progress made on the route maps in Scotland's Climate Change Programme; it is an encouraging picture. In addition to the work which features in Scotland's Climate Change Programme, the tables include new commitments made since the Programme was published in March 2006.
Scotland's Climate Change Programme - First Annual Report
The commitments are ordered by policy area, whereas the route maps in Scotland's Climate Change Programme are ordered chronologically. (N) denotes entries in addition to those published in the Scotland's Climate Change Programme in March 2006. Some commitments have been spilt into two so that progress can be tracked more easily.
Energy Route Map
Area | Commitment | Timing | Status | Comments | Links |
|---|
Renewables | Post review, announce conclusions on future direction of Scottish Community and Household Renewables Initiative ( SCHRI). | Mid 2006 | Completed | Continuing commitment to support SCHRI till March 2008. An extra £3 million for SCHRI was announced in May 2006, taking our total investment in SCHRI to almost £16 million (to end March 2008). | Evaluation http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/06/12105643/0 Additional funding http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2006/05/16100131 |
Renewables | (N) Clean energy scheme: marine | End of 2006 | Ongoing | £13 million Wave and Tidal Energy support Scheme invited bids in late 2006. Awards announced 20 February 2007. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/infrastructure/19185/WTSupportScheme/WTSupportSchemeIntro Awards press release http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2007/02/20091751 |
Renewables | (N) Clean energy scheme: hydrogen | end of 2006 | Ongoing | £1.5m Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Support Scheme invited bids in late 2006 - awards to be announced shortly. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/infrastructure/19185/HydrogenSupport/HydrogenSupportIntro |
Renewables | (N) Clean energy scheme: biomass | End of 2006 | Ongoing | £7.5m Biomass Support Scheme invited bids in early 2007 - awards to be announced shortly. Some biomass support is already allocated through the Highlands and Islands Community Energy Company to develop up to 10 community biomass projects in Highlands and Islands. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/infrastructure/19185/BioSupport/BioSupportIntro |
Renewables | (N) Launch of Sigma Sustainable Energy Fund | Late 2006 | Ongoing | This £6 million fund, funded by the public and private sector, will stimulate growth in the renewables sector and help Scotland remain at the forefront of the sector. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2006/09/05101636 |
Renewables | Review of existing policy ( NPPG 6) on renewables and locational guidance. | Second half 2006 | Ongoing | This policy sets out the national planning policies for renewable energy developments that planning authorities should consider when preparing development plans and when determining planning applications. The draft policy includes a proposal to require some new developments to include on-site renewables to reduce CO 2 emissions by at least 10%. Consultation on the draft policy opened 10 July and closed 6 October 2006. Publication in likely in late March 2007. | Draft policy http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/07/10150621/0 Consultation responses http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/12/04103231/0 Analysis of consultation responses http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2007/02/02125905/0 |
Renewables | Possible changes to Renewables Obligation (Scotland) ( ROS) to enhance support to marine renewables - study commissioned | January 2006 | Completed | Report published 12 December 2006 to accompany the Statutory Consultation on Review of ROS (Support for Wave and Tidal Power) 2006. Conclusions on wave / tidal cost levels provide basis for modifications to ROS. | Volume 1 http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/infrastructure/19185/FESPoyryV1 Volume 2 http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/infrastructure/19185/FESPoyryV2 |
Renewables | Possible changes to ROS to enhance support to marine renewables - preliminary consultation | Spring 2006 | Completed | Consultation from 12 May to 3 August 2006 | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/05/10153327/ConDocsHTML |
Renewables | Possible changes to ROS to enhance support to marine renewables - statutory consultation | Autumn 2006 | Completed | Closed 12 December 2006. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/infrastructure/19185/ROSConsWaveTidal06Paper |
Renewables | Possible changes to ROS to enhance support to marine renewables - Implementation of any agreed changes | April 2007 | Ongoing | An amended Order containing these changes has now been laid before the Scottish Parliament. | Draft Order http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/infrastructure/19185/ROSConsWaveTidal06Order |
Renewables | Publication of research on storage of biomass | Spring 2006 | Completed | Review of Greenhouse Gas Life Cycle Emissions, Air Pollution Impacts and Economics of Biomass Production and Consumption in Scotland published in September 2006. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/09/22094104/0 |
Renewables | Publish Scottish Biomass Action Plan | End of 2006 | Delayed | Publication imminent. | |
Renewables | Publish Scottish Renewable Heat Strategy | End of 2007 | Ongoing | Forum for Renewable Energy Development in Scotland ( FREDS) sub-group established to provide advice. | |
Energy Efficiency | Publication of Scottish Energy Efficiency Strategy (also in Residential and Business route maps) | Later in 2006 | Delayed | The delay is the result of energy efficiency and microgeneration becoming a mainstream issue for a number of policy areas across a range of Ministerial portfolios. Ministers want to ensure that the Strategy adequately addresses each of their individual areas and that ambitious targets are set for the future. Subject to Cabinet clearance, a draft Strategy will be published for consultation in March 2007. | |
Energy Efficiency | Strategic Environmental Assessment ( SEA) of the Energy Efficiency Strategy | Autumn 2006 | Delayed | Delayed due to delay in publishing Scottish Energy Efficiency Strategy Subject to Cabinet clearance of the draft Strategy, the Environmental Report will be published in March 2007 | |
Public Bodies | (N) Extension to Central Energy Efficiency Fund (also Public Sector route map) | Early 2007 | Ongoing | £20m revolving loan fund to assist the public sector to make the initial capital investment necessary to achieve energy savings. An additional £4 million was announced on 6 February 2007 to provide such assistance to the further and higher education sectors. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2007/02/06132959 |
Building Standards | (N) Energy Performance Certificates - existing non-domestic buildings | Sale -Second half of 2008 Rental and public buildings - early 2009 | Ongoing | Certificates to be affixed to all non-domestic buildings when they are sold or rented out. Also display of certificates for large public buildings. From 1 May 2007 secondary legislation in place for affixing certificates, ready for roll-out by way of Direction to local authorities. | Consultation on implementation of EU Directive on energy performance of buildings: http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/archive/consul_energy.htm Consultation analysis http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/pdfs/epbdconsultations.pdf |
Building Standards | Public consultation on Scottish building regulations, followed by a public consultation on implementation of the EU Directive on the energy performance of buildings (also in Residential route map) | March 2006 | Completed | Consultation on proposed amendments to the Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004 - A review of Standards and Guidance in the Technical Handbooks from 1 March to 26 May 2006. Consultation on changing Scottish building regulations to implement EU Directive on Performance of Buildings from 15 May to 11 August 2006. Consultation analysis issued 22 November 2006 | Consultation on proposed amendments to the Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004 http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/archive/sectionsixconsultation.htm Consultation on implementation of EU Directive on Performance of Buildings: http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/archive/consul_energy.htm Consultation analysis http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/pdfs/epbdconsultations.pdfhttp://www.sbsa.gov.uk/current_standards/consul_energy.htm |
Building Standards | Publication of research by Building Research Establishment ( BRE) on integrated low and zero carbon technology | Spring 2006 | Completed | Completed March 2006 | http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/research/SummofLowandZeroCarbonTechnologies.htm |
Building Standards | Report on Scottish Buildings Standards Agency work relevant to sustainability (also in Residential route map) | Spring 2006 | Completed | Completed April 2006. The report describes work by Scottish Executive agencies and divisions to further the sustainable development of new buildings, both domestic and non-domestic. | http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/pdfs/SustainableDevelopmentPolicyintoPracticeNewbuildings.pdf |
Building Standards | Introduction of revised Scottish building regulations (also in Residential route map) | May 2007 | Ongoing | The revisions will be come into effect in May 2007. They include: - CO 2 emissions target for new buildings
- best levels of thermal insulation in the UK;
- requiring low energy lighting for new dwellings
- the introduction of condensing boilers for replacement and alteration work
| Revised Technical Handbooks http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/tech_handbooks/tbooks2007.htm |
Energy mix and new technologies | Findings of the UK Energy Review | Summer 2006 | Ongoing | In July 2006 UK Government published a report setting out the initial findings of the UK Energy Review. The Scottish Executive and other devolved administrations are working with UK Government on the development of a UK Energy White Paper. The UK Government is currently running a number of consultations linked to the UK Energy Review. | UK Energy Review Report http://www.dti.gov.uk/energy/review/page31995.html Scottish Executive Response to the UK Energy Review http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/06/13161455/0 |
Energy mix and new technologies | Committee on Radioactive Waste Management ( CoRWM) report on long term disposal of radioactive waste management | 31 July 2006 | Completed | The UK Government and devolved administrations asked CoRWM to make recommendations for the long-term management of the UK's higher activity radioactive wastes. CoRWM reported on 31 July 2006, recommending deep geological disposal for higher activity wastes, which was accepted on 25 October 2006. There will be further consultation on the implementation framework. | Press release: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2006/07/31105344 Final Report http://www.corwm.org.uk/pdf/FullReport.pdf Response from government: www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/921/0041029.pdf |
Energy mix and new technologies | Publication of energy projections as part of the Scottish Energy Study, followed by publication of Scottish greenhouse gas emission projections | Later in 2006 | Delayed | Publication now expected Summer 2007 . | Summary of Scottish Energy Study Volumes 1 and 2 (describing energy supply and demand in Scotland, and related CO 2 emissions, and how that has changed over the past 15 years) http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/01/19092557/0 |
Energy mix and new technologies | Liaison with private sector on developing clean technologies e.g. carbon capture and storage | Ongoing | Ongoing | Working up proposals with energy companies and universities. | |
Transport
Area | Commitment | Timing | Status | Comments | Links |
|---|
National Transport Strategy ( NTS) | 12 week consultation on draft National Transport Strategy | Due to begin in March 2006 | Completed | Consultation published 20 April and closed 13 July 2006. Report on consultation process published 5 December 2006. Analysis of consultation responses published 5 December 2006. | Consultation summary report: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Transport/NTS/consult-summ-rep Analysis of written consultation: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/10/31110457/0 |
National Transport Strategy ( NTS) | The Strategic Environmental Assessment ( SEA) of the National Transport Strategy | March 2006 | Completed | Consultation closed 13 July 2006. Environmental Report published 22 May 2006. Post Adoption Statement published 5 December 2006. | Environmental Report http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/05/16112258/0 Post adoption statement http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Transport/NTS/sea-post-adoption |
National Transport Strategy ( NTS) | Publication of the finalised National Transport Strategy including decisions on new climate change targets and the existing traffic stabilisation target | Late autumn 2006 | Completed | Published 5 December 2006. Reducing emissions is one of three strategic outcomes and commitments include: - Working with the UK Government to deliver the biofuels target (5% by 2010)
- Promoting SMART measures on all journeys, focusing on the commute to work, through developing travel awareness and marketing campaigns
- Exploring with key partners sustainable travel demonstration towns across Scotland to reduce car use and promote cycling and walking
- Undertaking a Scottish specific appraisal of the potential carbon savings of stricter adherence to national speed limits on trunk roads and motorways
- Promoting and encouraging new vehicle technologies
- Supporting sustainable distribution strategies through the Scottish Road Haulage Modernisation Fund.
| Summary http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/11/23165645/0 Full strategy http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/12/04104414/0 |
New technology & cleaner fuels | Contribute to development of Scottish Biomass Action Plan, and promotion of biofuels | Autumn 2006 | Completed | Publication of Biomass Action plan is imminent (Energy Route Map) | |
New technology & cleaner fuels | Continue working with the UK Government on promotion of biofuels and new vehicle technologies | Ongoing | Ongoing | The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation ( RTFO) scheme will be in place by April 2008. The Department for Transport published the RTFO consultation on 22 February 2007; it closes on 17 May 2007 | Biofuel pilot initiative press release http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2006/06/22095539 RTFO consultation http://www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/open/draftrtfo/ |
Modal shift | Appointment of Travel Plan Officers by Regional Travel Partnerships | Summer 2006 | Completed | All 6 Regional Travel Partnerships have appointed Travel Plan Officers and produced a Travel Plan Strategy and Action Plan. | |
Demand management | Further research on road pricing - national pilot - and implications for emissions | Research to be completed during 2006 | Ongoing | The first phase of the Costs of Congestion to Scotland research was published in January 2007. A research specification for the next phases of the research is now being drafted. | Research http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/153585/0041322.pdf Summary http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/153566/0041321.pdf |
Agriculture, Forestry, Land use
Area | Commitment | Timing | Status | Comments | Links |
|---|
Forestry | Publish Scottish Forestry Strategy | Mid 2006 | Completed | Strategy underwent thorough review following second public consultation, which ended 29 May. Climate change is the strategy's first key theme and specific actions are set out in four areas: increasing awareness of the forestry sector's contribution, adapting to climate change, mitigating climate change and increasing carbon sequestration and retention. | http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-6AGGZW |
Forestry | Publish Environmental Report as part of the Strategic Environmental Assessment ( SEA) of the Scottish Forestry Strategy | March 2006 | Completed | Published 6 March 2006 | http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-6C3DJ8 |
Forestry | (N) Publication of Climate Change Action Plan for Scottish Forestry (also in Adaptation route map) | End of 2007 | Ongoing | A key action flowing from the Scottish Forestry Strategy. | |
Forestry | Report on uptake of Forestry Commission Scotland 'energy from woodlands' grant | End of 2007 | Ongoing | £325,000 grant scheme in place to develop local wood energy supply chains | http://www.forestry.gov.uk/newsrele.nsf/WebPressReleases/53EAB2FD2B3739D28025718C0051AF6A |
Scotland Rural Development Programme | Consult on the Scottish Rural Development Programme (2007-2013), including Land Management Contracts | March-June 2006 | Completed | Issued in April, closed end June and analysis published September. | Consultation http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/04/03100240/0 Analysis of Responses http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/10/09113031/0 Response to the Analysis http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/11/02154148/0 |
Scotland Rural Development Programme | Submit Scotland Rural Development Programme including Land Management Contracts to European Commission for approval | In August 2006 | Delayed | Formal submission delayed until European Voluntary Modulation Regulation is adopted in 2007. Informal drafts submitted in late 2006 and February 2007. | |
Scotland Rural Development Programme | (N) Submit UK Strategy for Rural Development to European Commission | October 2006 | Completed | Formal submission by DEFRA slipped to December as a consequence of delays in Europe around the Voluntary Modulation Regulation. | |
Scottish Rural Development Programme | Introduce the full Land Management Contract approach as part of the Scotland Rural Development Programme | In 2007 | Ongoing | Land Management Contracts will be an integral part of the Scottish Rural Development Programme. Heading for autumn 2007. Tackling climate change is a key outcome for the Programme. Land Management Contracts will include measures to enable land managers and other businesses in rural communities to mitigate and adapt to climate change. | |
Agriculture | Establish a climate change and agriculture stakeholder group | Autumn 2006 | Completed | First meeting held 21 November with meetings every 2 months. | |
Agriculture | Develop an action plan for climate change and agriculture | End of 2006 | Ongoing | Stakeholder group will set out a plan of action through to March 2008. | |
Agriculture | (N) Pilot for farmers growing crops for biofuel and funding through Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme | June 2006 | Ongoing | Farmers using biosolids as organic fertiliser to grow wheat or barley and oil seed rape, which can produce five million litres of biofuels each year. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2006/06/22095539 (also Transport route map) |
Agriculture | (N) Publish consultation paper on proposed amendments to the Nitrate Vulnerable Zones Action Programme to control nitrate pollution from farming | Late 2006 | Ongoing | Consultation launched 16 November 2006 and closed 15 February 2007. Regulations to be made in 2007. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/11/16095031/0 |
Soils | Publish findings from study Scotland's Soil Resource - Current State and Threats | Summer 2006 | Completed | Published 25 September 2006. Soil has much wider environmental and ecosystem benefits than simply supporting plant growth. Climate change and loss of organic matter are the two most significant threats to Scottish soils. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/09/21115639/0 |
Soils | (N) Publish research into carbon and nitrogen dynamics in organic soils | Early 2007 | Ongoing | Final report to be published at a workshop on 16 March 2007 | |
Soils | (N) Scottish Soil Strategy and a Scottish Soil Monitoring System | 2007 | Ongoing | Following new research on soils Ministers have decided to develop a new Scottish Soils Strategy, to be published in 2007. The preservation and enhancement of carbon in soils will be a key consideration in the strategy. A Soil Monitoring Network is also being developed which will enable any changes in the carbon stored in soils to be monitored. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2006/09/25102611 |
Biodiversity & Soils | Develop soil management strategies for biodiversity | By 2007 | Ongoing | Protecting and enhancing soil biodiversity will be an aspect covered in the Scottish Soils Strategy to be published in 2007. | |
Business
Area | Commitment | Timing | Status | Comments | Links |
|---|
Emissions Trading | Phase II National Allocation Plan ( NAP) of EU Emissions Trading Scheme ( EUETS) submitted to European Commission | Consult stakeholders by end-2006 | Completed | The second phase of the EUETS covers the Kyoto commitment period 2008 to 2012. The UK submitted its National Allocation Plan ( NAP) on 21 August. The European Commission responded on 29 November 2006. The UK was the only country in first set of announcements whose emissions cap was not cut. The UK's overall cap represents an annual reduction of 29.3 million tonnes of CO 2 against projected business as usual emissions for Phase II. | http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/climatechange/trading/eu/phase2/index.htm |
Emissions Trading | Implementation of Phase II of EUETS | January 2008 | Ongoing | Detailed information about how phase II will be implemented is available on the Executive's website. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/Climate-Change/16327/euets/Home |
Emissions Trading | Work with UK Government to consider proposals for new UK emissions trading scheme ( UKETS) | During 2006 | Ongoing | UKETS will be replaced by either a mandatory emissions trading scheme (the Energy Performance Commitment - EPC) or another measure. Consultation on options ran between 8 November 2006 and 31 January 2007. If the EPC is chosen, legislation will be required and the aim is for the preferred option to be included in the Energy White Paper. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/Climate-Change/16327/EnergyPerComm/Introsumm |
Energy Efficiency | Publication of Scottish Energy Efficiency Strategy (also in Energy and Residential route maps) | Later in 2006 | Delayed | The delay is the result of energy efficiency and microgeneration becoming a mainstream issue for a number of policy areas across a range of Ministerial portfolios. Ministers want to ensure that the Strategy adequately addresses each of their individual areas and that ambitious targets are set for the future. Subject to Cabinet clearance a draft Strategy will be published for consultation in March 2007. | |
Regulation | Any legislative changes to enhance SEPA's ability to promote energy efficiency under the Pollution Prevention and Control Regulations ( PPC) | During 2006 | Ongoing | Reviewing options, including consideration of an order under Section 63 of the Scotland Act to transfer relevant functions to Scottish Ministers. | |
Business Leadership | (N) Climate Change Business Delivery Group | February 2007 | Ongoing | A group of key Scottish businesses sharing best practice on changing business practices to reduce emissions and adapt to the threats and challenges of climate change. | Press release - 9 February 2007 http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2007/02/09105232 |
Residential
Area | Commitment | Timing | Status | Comments | Links |
|---|
Building Standards | Public consultation on Scottish building regulations, followed by a public consultation on implementation of the EU Directive on the energy performance of buildings (also in Energy route map) | March 2006 | Completed | Consultation on proposed amendments to the Building (Scotland) Regulations - A review of Standards and Guidance in the Technical Handbooks from 1 March to 26 May 2006. Consultation on changing Scottish building regulations to implement EU Directive on energy performance of buildings from 15 May to 11 August 2006. Consultation analysis issued 22 November 2006. | Consultation on proposed amendments to the Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004 http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/archive/sectionsixconsultation.htm Consultation on implementation of EU Directive on energy performance of buildings: http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/archive/consul_energy.htm Consultation analysis http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/pdfs/epbdconsultations.pdfhttp://www.sbsa.gov.uk/current_standards/consul_energy.htm |
Building Standards | Introduction of revised Scottish building regulations (also in Energy route map) | May 2007 | Ongoing | The revisions will be come into effect in May 2007. They include: - CO 2 emissions target for new buildings
- best levels of thermal insulation in the UK;
- requiring low energy lighting for new dwellings
- the introduction of condensing boilers for replacement and alteration work
| Revised Technical Handbooks http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/tech_handbooks/tbooks2007.htm |
Building Standards | (N) Energy Performance Certificates - existing housing | Sale - Second half of 2008 Rental early 2009 | Ongoing | Certificates to be affixed to all dwellings when they are sold or rented out. For marketed properties certificates will be part of Purchaser's Information Pack required under Part 3 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006. From 1 May 2007 secondary legislation will be in place for affixing certificates, ready for roll-out by way of Direction to local authorities. Consultation on the draft regulations for marketed properties, including this aspect, opened on 20 February and closes on 15 May 2007. | Consultation on implementation of EU Directive on energy performance of Buildings: http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/archive/consul_energy.htm Consultation analysis http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/pdfs/epbdconsultations.pdf Purchaser's Information Pack http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Housing/Housing/16193/BuyingSelling/18223/PIPsection/PIPIntro Consultation http://www.communitiesscotland.gov.uk/stellent/groups/public/documents/webpages/cs_017865.doc |
Building Standards | Report on Scottish Building Standards Agency work relevant to sustainability (also in Energy route map) | Spring 2006 | Completed | Completed April 2006. The report describes work by Scottish Executive agencies and divisions to further the sustainable development of new buildings, both domestic and non-domestic. | http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/pdfs/SustainableDevelopmentPolicyintoPracticeNewbuildings.pdf |
Energy Efficiency | Publication of Scottish Energy Efficiency Strategy (also in Energy and Business route maps) | Later in 2006 | Delayed | The delay is the result of energy efficiency and microgeneration becoming a mainstream issue for a number of policy areas across a range of Ministerial portfolios. Ministers want to ensure that the Strategy adequately addresses each of their individual areas and that ambitious targets are set for the future. Subject to Cabinet clearance a draft Strategy will be published for consultation in March 2007. | |
Energy Efficiency | (N) Sustainable Housing Design Guide for Scotland | 31 January 2007 | Completed | Aimed primarily at Housing Associations, the Guide has been updated and expanded to include comprehensive refurbishment and maintenance advice. Section 5 contains extensive advice on affordable warmth and carbon auditing. The guide is currently available as a web based publication but the intention is work towards hard copies in Summer 2007. | http://www.communitiesscotland.gov.uk/shdg/Home.pdf |
Fuel Poverty | Extensions to the Central Heating and Warm Deal Programmes will be laid before Parliament | Later in 2006 | Completed | New regulations came into effect from 1 January 2007 | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2006/03/14114324 |
Fuel Poverty | Pilot on the use of renewables in our fuel poverty programmes to be launched | Summer 2006 | Ongoing | £1m pilot up and running, standalone complementary research commissioned. Results expected autumn 2008. | |
Public Sector
Area | Commitment | Timing | Status | Comments | Links |
|---|
Public Bodies | Best Value and Sustainable Development guidance | Mid 2006 | Completed | Guidance for policy makers in all public services. Toolkit published in August 2006. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/14838/SusDevToolkitContent |
Public Bodies | (N) Extension to Central Energy Efficiency Fund (also Energy route map) | Early 2007 | Ongoing | £20m revolving loan fund to assist the public sector to make the initial capital investment necessary to achieve energy savings. An additional £4 million was announced on 6 February 2007 to provide such assistance to the further and higher education sectors. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2007/02/06132959 |
Public Bodies | Timetable for environmental management systems in Executive agencies and public bodies: finalisation of Environmental Management Policies, Procedures and Targets | 31 March 2006 | Delayed | Majority of the public bodies covered appeared to be on track to deliver policies and targets by 31 March 2006 but in many cases confirmatory documentation is outstanding. | |
Public Bodies | Agencies and Public Bodies to report overall performance against targets for 2006-07 and annually thereafter | April 2007 | Ongoing | Awaiting annual performance reports of public bodies for 2006/2007 | |
Local Authorities | Scotland's Climate Change Declaration and support mechanism | Second half 2006 | Completed | Scotland's Climate Change Declaration was launched on 16 January 2007 and was signed by every Scottish local authority. An on-line support tool can be accessed through the Declaration website and the Executive is working with a number of partners, including the Sustainable Scotland Network and Energy Saving Trust, to develop the tool further. Support for local authorities will also be offered through workshops and seminars. Other sectors have shown interest in signing the Declaration and committing to the subsequent programme of action. | http://www.sustainable-scotland.net/climatechange/ |
Local Authorities | Local Government Climate Change Programme | In 2007 | Ongoing | A Scottish Local Authority Climate Change Programme Development Group has been established with representation from a number of organisations, including the Scottish Executive, Sustainable Scotland Network and COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities). This Group will take forward development of the Scottish Local Authority Climate Change Programme, aiming to publish it by the end of 2007. | |
Local Authorities | Report on feasibility of monitoring and reporting local authority greenhouse gas emissions | Autumn 2006 | Delayed | This work looks at ways in which local authorities can monitor and report greenhouse gas emissions. It has been delayed to allow the new Scottish Local Authority Climate Change Programme Development Group to consider it with input, as required, from local authority officials. | |
Local Authorities | Local Authority Sustainable Energy Strategy | Second half 2006 | Ongoing | COSLA have prepared a draft Local Authority Sustainable Energy Strategy but is likely to review it in the light of the Scotland's Climate Change Declaration and the Scottish Energy Efficiency Strategy. | |
Procurement | UK National Action Plan for Sustainable Procurement | By April 2006 | Delayed | UK National Sustainable Procurement Action Plan delivered on time - UK Government response delayed. | The Sustainable Procurement Task Force National Action Plan http://www.sustainable-development.gov.uk/publications/procurement-action-plan/index.htm |
Procurement | Scottish Procurement Action Plan | By end 2006 | Delayed | Delayed because of delay in UK response - revised target date will depend on when UK Government response is published. | |
Procurement | New initiative to encourage energy efficiency and renewables in public sector infrastructure investments | Later in 2006 | Delayed | This work has been subsumed into the Scottish Energy Efficiency Strategy, and has hence been delayed. | |
Scottish Executive operations | Set a single CO 2 emissions reduction target for Executive activities | By July 2007 | Ongoing | A consultant will be appointed in early 2007 to develop conversion factors for CO 2 emissions relative to wastes arising. This will be combined with current targets for emissions reductions for energy use and business travel to express all as a single target. | |
Scottish Executive operations | (N) Revision of Scottish Executive Travel Plan | Summer 2007 | Ongoing | The Scottish Executive Travel Plan is being revised. It will encourage staff to reduce their travel and promote the use more sustainable modes of travel to staff and visitors. | |
Scottish Executive operations | Introduce an offsetting regime for business travel to cover business travel emissions | From April 2006 | Ongoing | Implemented June 06. Decisions on first offset projects will be made in early 2007. | |
Scottish Executive operations | Executive to display operational ratings, in addition to asset ratings | In 2007 | Ongoing | Victoria Quay and St. Andrew's House to display asset ratings in the first part of this year. Considering how best to measure operational ratings. | |
Scottish Executive operations | (N) Setting up Environmental Working Groups in 14 target buildings to generate action programmes addressing local issues. | Spring 2007 | Ongoing | Setting up Environmental Working Groups in 14 target buildings to generate action programmes addressing local issues. Groups have been established for 10 of our 14 target buildings. The remaining 4 will be progressed in the first quarter of 2007. | |
Communities Scotland | (N) Communities Scotland Sustainable Development Policy | In 2007 | Ongoing | Launched for consultation on 7 December and closed 28 February 2007. It includes commitments to: - Low carbon approach to new housing
- Incorporate sustainable development principles into procurement strategy
- Implement BRE EcoHomes into any new build programme from 2008
- Research carbon costing across the building programme
The policy as a whole, covering housing and regeneration, makes a commitment to developing a methodology for measuring progress in terms of carbon saved in order that the Agency as a whole can contribute to climate change targets. | http://www.communitiesscotland.gov.uk/stellent/groups/public/documents/webpages/cs_012537.hcsp |
Planning | (N) Publish statutory guidance on planning and sustainable development | 2007 | Ongoing | Follows from Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006. Consultation draft being prepared, including guidance on implications of climate change for planning, for Scottish Ministers (preparing the National Planning Framework), and planning authorities (preparing land use development plans.) | Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/legislation/scotland/acts2006/20060017.htm |
Waste
Adaptation
Area | Commitment | Timing | Status | Comments | Links |
|---|
Policy Development | UK Adaptation Policy Framework | Phase I complete Spring /Summer 2006 | Ongoing | The phase I consultation on an Adaptation Policy Framework closed in 31 January 2006. The Executive is working with the UK Government to take forward phase II of the Adaptation Policy Framework which aims to identify priority areas for action and to mainstream adaptation across policy-making. | http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/climatechange/uk/adapt/policyframe.htm |
Climate Scenarios | UK Climate Change Scenarios workshop | May 2006 | Completed | Workshop held 15 May 2006. | |
Climate Scenarios | Dissemination and application of new climate change scenarios | Post 2008 | Ongoing | UK Scenarios on course for publication late 2008 | |
Policy Development | Publication of "A Handbook of Climate Change Trends Across Scotland to aid Adaptive Strategies" | May 2006 | Completed | Published 15 May 2006 | http://www.sniffer.org.uk/exe/download.asp?sniffer_outputs/CC03_1.pdf |
Flood risk management | Consultation on Sustainable Flood Management | Early 2006 | Delayed | Delayed to allow for detailed pilot study (carried out in late 2005) and to develop a Strategic Environmental Assessment before going to consultation. Now likely to launch in summer of 2007. | |
Flood risk management | Report of Flooding Issues Advisory Committee ( FIAC) | Early 2007 | Ongoing | Due to publish its recommendations on taking forward National Flooding Framework in June 2007. | |
Flood risk management | Publication of guidance on Sustainable Flood Management | 2007 | In preparation | Will follow consultation | |
Flood risk management | (N) European network of flooding research | Ongoing | Ongoing | Report comparing flood research programmes across Europe published 29 January. | Press release: http://www.crue-eranet.net/press_release.html |
Forestry | Publish new guidance on Seed Sources for Planting Native Trees and Shrubs | By end 2006 | Completed | Published October 2006 | http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd-6uue3l |
Forestry | Publication of Climate Change Action Plan for Scottish Forestry (also in Agriculture, Forestry, Land use route map) | By end 2007 | Ongoing | A key action flowing from the Scottish Forestry Strategy. | |
Marine | Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership: design and launch of website | May 2006 | Completed | Website launched May 2006 | http://www.mccip.org.uk/ |
Marine | (N) Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership ( MCCIP): annual report | Annually | Completed (2006) | First report card launched 29 November 2006. | http://www.mccip.org.uk/arc/default.htm |
Marine | MCCIP: review of the progress of the partnership | In 2007 | Not yet begun | | |
Marine | MCCIP: delivery of the aims and objectives of the partnership | By 2010 | Ongoing | MCCIP website gives more details of work plan. | http://www.mccip.org.uk/ |
Research | Establish website presence to disseminate climate change research findings | June 2006 | Delayed | The Executive is working with the Scotland and Northern Ireland Forum for Environmental Research ( SNIFFER) who are currently creating a website presence to disseminate climate change research findings and information exchange. The website is expected to be live in early summer 2007. | |
Research | Workshop for Scottish partners to disseminate outputs from specific research projects on risks of climate change to the private sector in Scotland | Autumn/Winter 2006 | Delayed | The Executive is working in partnership with SNIFFER and UK Climate Impacts Programme ( UKCIP) to consider options, including a potential workshop, to ensure effective engagement with the private sector in Scotland in identifying and responding to the impacts of climate change. A workshop is being planned for May 2007. Delay due to limited availability of activity champion at UKCIP. | |
Roads | Publication of Phase 2 of the Scottish Road Network Landslides Study | Spring 2007 | Delayed | New deadline of autumn 2007 due to delays in procuring the site inspection stage of the assessment. | |
Policy Development | New Scottish Climate Change Impact Programme ( SCCIP) Programme of Activities | Annually | Ongoing | The Executive is currently working with the SNIFFER and the UK Climate Impacts Programme to review Scotland's Climate Change Impacts Partnership ( SCCIP) in order to build on progress to date with a view to maximising the future impact of SCCIP activities. | |
Mainstreaming
Scotland's Climate Change Programme has no mainstreaming route map. These commitments are taken from chapter 7, Moving Forward.
Area | Commitment | Timing | Status | Comments | Links |
|---|
Communications | Publish summary version of Scotland's Climate Change Programme | March 2006 | Completed | Published 30 March 2006 | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/03/30091112/0 |
Communications | Work more closely with stakeholders | Summer 2007 | Ongoing | Working closely with stakeholders has enabled us to develop the Scottish Local Authority Climate Change Programme, An Inconvenient Truth screenings and education material, and the sustainable development campaign: It's Our Future | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2007/01/15121842 http://www.sustainable-scotland.net/climatechange/ |
Communications | To deliver climate change message as widely as possible including individuals, households, businesses, community groups and the voluntary sector | July 2007 | Ongoing | Support for It's Our Future which includes TV ads, a website, PR activity and a schools competition. Produced a communications plan for Scotland's Climate Change Programme. Developing resources toolkit for use by all policy areas | www.infoscotland.com/ourfuture Schools competition http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2007/02/06103931 |
Communications | To embed climate change messages into future learning and education | July 2007 | Ongoing | Learning Teaching Scotland, Scottish Power and the Executive are working together to develop and deliver a package of education materials, based on the Al Gore film, An Inconvenient Truth, that will present climate change and sustainable development messages in a new and exciting way. These materials and copies of the film will be made available to all secondary schools. | http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2007/01/16094316 |
Improving skills | Establish an analysts' network | Autumn 2006 | Completed | First meeting held on 11th December 2006. The network is working towards establishing a carbon balance sheet approach to carbon proofing new policies. Currently compiling resources into an web-based resource to support the analysts' network. | |
Improving skills | Provide climate change training for policy makers | End of 2007 | In preparation | Conducted staff benchmark surveys and developing a toolkit of resources. Extra time is being taken to fully integrate climate change mainstreaming work with sustainable development mainstreaming and staff training. | |
Policy development | Consider Strategic Environmental Assessment ( SEA) process and help strengthen guidance if necessary | Ongoing | Ongoing | Plan to use findings of the voluntary report (above) to provide climate change guidance to include in the Scottish Executive's SEA toolkit. | |
Policy development | Be an active player in taking forward the Montreal Declaration | Ongoing | Ongoing | Mr Finnie met other states and regions at UN Climate Change Conference in Nairobi in November 2006. Scotland became a founding member of a States and Regions Climate Change Alliance with California, Quebec, Manitoba, Bavaria and South Australia. | |
Policy Development | Consider mechanisms and timing for independent audit of Scotland's Climate Change Programme. | 2008 | Not yet begun | Will need to be informed by new UK climate change legislation and direction of new Scottish administration. | |
Policy development | Feasibility Study to examine the case for using social economy models to establish offsetting in Scotland | 31 March 2007 | Ongoing | Communities Scotland and Scottish Enterprise Glasgow will fund the Wise Group to undertake a small feasibility study for offsetting in Scotland via the social economy. | |
Reporting | Publish and report on sustainability indicators | March 2006 | Completed | Indicators published July 2006, reporting online from March 2007 | http://www.sustainable-development.gov.uk/progress/index.htm |
Reporting | Strategic Environmental Assessment ( SEA) of Scotland's Climate Change Programme | During 2007 | Ongoing | There was no statutory requirement to undertake an SEA of Scotland's Climate Change Programme as the start of the review process fell outwith the timescale for requiring SEA. Nonetheless, a voluntary assessment of the potential environmental implications of the Executive's framework approach to climate change has been attempted and the findings and lessons learned are expected to be published during 2007. | |
Reporting | Report annually to Cabinet and Parliament | Annually | Completed (2007) | This is the first annual report. | |
Reporting | Monitor progress against Scottish Share and Target | During 2008 | In preparation | The analysts' network will peer review assessments of carbon impacts of policies. | |
« Previous | Contents | Next »