Net zero heating and energy efficiency standards: research summary

Awareness of and attitudes towards net zero

Net zero was a term most participants were aware of but there was limited understanding of what this means for them at an individual level. Participants were sceptical about the government’s ability to take action, even though they were generally positive about the environmental motivations to reach the net zero targets. However, the reality of meeting these targets was uncertain as the timeframe did not seem achievable for all households due to the current cost of living crisis.

Whilst most participants agreed that something needs to be done to reduce emissions and help Scotland reach net zero, there was a disconnect between agreeing with this and taking responsibility themselves to take action. Many stated the cost of complying and not seeing a clear, personal financial benefit from upgrading their properties as the main barriers.

Whilst participants were not against the imposition of standards in domestic properties, they said that the government should be leading from the front as well as industry and big business. Participants said that their impact as individuals was much smaller in comparison to big businesses and industry and that they want to see these organisations taking action too.