The Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019 aims to reduce emissions of all greenhouse gases in Scotland to net-zero by 2045, with incremental targets to be met in the interim period.
Against this backdrop, calls for fairness in climate change action and securing a ‘just transition’ have grown, referring to the need for governments to take action to reduce emissions in a way which is fair and leaves no-one behind. The Just Transition Commission has been established with the aim of providing Scottish ministers with practical, realistic, and affordable recommendations for action that will:
- maximise the economic and social opportunities that the move to a net-zero economy offers
- build-on Scotland’s existing strengths and assets
- understand and mitigate risks that could arise in relation to regional cohesion, equalities, poverty (including fuel poverty), and a sustainable and inclusive labour market
The commission is tasked to work and engage with workers, communities, non-governmental organisations, businesses and other relevant bodies across Scotland. Written submissions to inform the development of the commission’s recommendations are invited to support this work.
More information and the online response form are available on the Scottish Government website.