The Big Climate Conversation

A nationwide conversation to discuss action to tackle the global climate emergency will take place in Scotland this summer, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed.

Speaking ahead of her address at the World Forum on Climate Justice, the First Minister highlighted the progress that has already been made to reduce emissions in Scotland.

She also set out plans to give people, businesses, industry and the public sector across the country the opportunity to be part of the new Big Climate Conversation.

The First Minister said:

“Scotland has already reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 47% since 1990. We want to go further, and end our contribution to climate change completely.

“Becoming a net-zero emissions nation will require changes to virtually every aspect of everyday life. We will need to change how we travel, how we keep homes and workplaces warm, and how we design cities and towns.

“We will have to move rapidly from a throwaway culture to a circular economy, and will need to develop and apply new technologies, while also planting millions of trees and restoring peatlands.

“All of this has to be a truly national endeavour. And it has to be done in a way that is fair. That’s why the Scottish Government is launching The Big Climate Conversation to encourage communities, businesses and the public sector to talk about what action we can all take.

“Our public engagement programme under The Big Climate Conversation will launch next week. There will be consultation events around the country with communities and businesses; we will help organisations to stage their own events; and we will reach many more people through digital communications.

“We hope to reach thousands of people and organisations to hear about their concerns, priorities and ambitions. We want to understand what changes Scottish people are willing to make, and what they want Government to do to tackle the global climate emergency.”

More information: The Big Climate Conversation