SYP has long recognised the impacts of climate change as a global climate emergency. To tackle that climate emergency we need bold, but deliverable action. We are therefore concerned that yesterday the Scottish Government confirmed that its aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030 is now not achievable. You can read more about the Scottish Government’s announcement and what it means in this article by the BBC and in Stop Climate Chaos Scotland’s press release.
From extreme weather to habitat damage, the effects of the climate emergency are already impacting communities in Scotland. My home of Angus has seen this first-hand when Storm Babet brought unprecedented flooding to the town of Brechin, forcing residents from their homes. Against this backdrop the Scottish Government should be going further and faster to protect our planet. Whilst yesterday’s statement kept Scotland’s long-term target to reach net zero by 2045, the Scottish Government must set out as soon as possible how they plan to ensure this.
Last September, the First Minister rightly criticised the UK Government for rolling back its net-zero targets and endorsing the creation of the Rosebank oil field. This is something I wrote a blog about for SYP during Scottish Climate week. The Scottish Government must now be held to the same standards.
Like many young people across Scotland, I am now scared for what yesterday’s announcement means for my future and the future of our planet. I spoke to two of my fellow MSYPs to get their perspective on the news and they shared my frustration and disappointment:
“Scotland has been and should always continue to be a world leader on climate change and renewable energy. While this is disappointing news to receive, it should also reinvigorate us to keep fighting against climate change, in Scotland and internationally, to reach all other future targets.”
Isla Grant MSYP, Convener of SYP’s External Affairs, UK and International Relations Committee
“The news of the plan to drop the target to cut net zero by 75% by 2030 is devastating. It is important the target set for 2045 remains on track, the TERA Committee and myself will work with everyone to ensure this happens.”
– David McGilp MSYP, Convener of SYP’s Transport, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee
