Our climate is facing an emergency. The truth is, we can’t go on like this. To stop climate change, we need to change now. Together, we can do more to tackle the climate emergency and save our planet. It’s time for change.
The landscape around climate change has changed dramatically. The global climate emergency is now on our doorstep - it's not just something we can casually work towards. It needs our urgent attention.
We have seen a surge in public interest. Young people in Scotland are taking action, especially in the youth led ‘Fridays for Futures’ movement, passionately advocating for their right to live in a net zero world (where the emissions of greenhouse gases are balanced by removals of those gases, such as carbon being absorbed by forests).
Scotland is proudly leading the fight against climate change and will be net zero for all greenhouse gases by 2045 to minimise the impact of the climate emergency on our society and the environment.
We’re also seeing many businesses, organisations, public sector, third sector and communities across Scotland stepping up to tackle the global climate emergency. They’re joining the fight by changing processes, running events and supporting their staff to become more sustainable.
The time for stronger and more decisive action is now and it really is down to everyone to make the effort together. We need all of Scotland to be involved if we are going end Scotland’s contribution to climate change within a generation.
Businesses across Scotland can get involved by helping their employees tackle climate change with initiatives such as cycle to work and car sharing schemes to on-site recycling facilities for unavoidable food waste.
And human causes of climate change need urgently addressed too. You may think your carbon footprint can’t make a difference, but it does.
Active travel – whether it’s walking or cycling to work, using public transport on the commute, taking advantage of cycle to work and car sharing schemes, 
Food waste – don't let your food turn bad – if you can’t use it, recycle it. More tips can be found 
Electric vehicles – make the swap to 
Short-haul journeys – avoid the airport scramble for short-haul journeys if possible and take the train 
Eat local, in-season food – 
Reduce, reuse, recycle – reduce what packaging or single use plastic you use, recycle paper and plastics, and share or buy second-hand items instead of new. Get tips 
Keep cosy – make sure your home is draught proof and 
Dial it down – set your heating thermostats no higher than 19 degrees celsius and water thermostats no higher than 55 degrees celsius.
Smart swaps – swap to eco-friendly LED lightbulbs and more 
Heating systems – install a more 