Cal's Take on Climate Action for #ScotClimateWeek

Since joining Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) in March this year, I’ve been supporting the Scottish Government on its Carbon Neutral Islands (CNI) project.

The islands in question are Barra and Vatersay, Great Cumbrae, Hoy and Walls, Islay, Raasay and Yell.

The project is about demonstrating the low carbon potential of Scottish islands by investing in initiatives that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide broader economic and social benefits.

My principal role is to develop the long-term financing strategy for the CNI project – taking each island’s aspirations and working with community development officers to develop plans to make best use of available public funds, alongside private investment and partnerships.

Working alongside Community Energy Scotland, Scottish Futures Trust and local authorities, we also aim to capture lessons from the project and share them across the region. This will help other communities in their own decarbonisation journeys.

One thing I’ve learned so far is that there are so many funds available to support the net zero transition. My recommendation to communities is to speak with HIE area teams as early as possible for advice on which funds (or combination of funds) to target.

Having lived and worked in North Uist prior to this role, I am really enjoying working on the CNI project. I feel like I’m making a real difference as we move towards a just transition, but also providing direct support to our island communities – something that means a lot to me, personally and professionally.

Alongside my primary role, I’ve recently been helping the HIE property team on plans to decarbonise the organisation’s property portfolio.

I’ve also been acting as a judge for the 2024 Scottish Environment Business Awards (VIBES). While I can’t say which businesses I’ve visited, I can say that I’ve been humbled and inspired by the time, money and effort that businesses across Scotland are investing, to support our transition to net zero and promote environmental benefits.

It really does feel like we’re on this journey together. While the targets are challenging, there are so many good people, doing good things, which will benefit our region.

As part of broader global efforts, this will enhance the lives of generations to come. What a thing to be a part of!

Watch this space for news of the VIBES winners, which will be announced at an awards event in Glasgow on Tuesday 12 November 2024.

VIBES website