Climate change
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Net Zero Assessment: independent review
Independent peer review of the Net Zero Assessment pilot run between March and October 2024
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Net Zero Assessment: Pilot report
Internal report on the findings of the Net Zero Assessment Pilot, run between March and October 2024.
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Net Zero Assessment: Scottish Budget 2025-2026- Taxonomy Methodology Note
Overview of the methodology used to develop the Climate Change Taxonomy of the Scottish Budget.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 strategy – progress report
This sets out the policy framework for air quality in Scotland to 2026 and includes a comprehensive list of actions across ten policy areas. This fourth annual report summarises progress on actions since the last report in June 2024.
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Scottish National Adaptation Plan – Annual Progress Report 2024-2025
This is the first Annual Progress Report for the Scottish National Adaptation Plan (SNAP3) which was published September 2024.
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Future farming Investment Scheme
Applications for £14 million fund to open in July.
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New climate targets set
Carbon Budgets to tackle climate change.
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Statement To Accompany The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 (Scottish Carbon Budgets) Amendment Regulations 2025
A statement to accompany the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 (Scottish Carbon Budgets) Amendment Regulations 2025 as required under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009. It provides information on the Regulations and indicates the likely proposals and policies in the next Climate Change Plan.
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Offshore wind policy statement 2020 update: consultation
This consultation will inform the Scottish Government's update to its 2020 Offshore Wind Policy Statement, particularly with regard to an updated ambition for offshore wind.
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Grangemouth Industrial - just transition plan: supporting a fair transition for Scotland's core manufacturing cluster
Outlines our long-term vision for the future of the Grangemouth Industrial cluster and corresponding actions, supporting a just transition for workers, the community and industry of Grangemouth.
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Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill - deer management: final business and regulatory impact assessment
Final business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) for the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill in relation to deer management.
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Charging for single - use disposable beverage cups: consultation analysis
Analysis of the responses to the public consultation on the proposed implementation of charging for single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Housing placed at the heart of Cabinet
First Minister announces changes to Ministerial team.
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National Electrofishing Programme for Scotland (NEPS) 2023: status of juvenile Atlantic salmon and brown trout populations
The National Electrofishing Programme for Scotland (NEPS) is a statistical survey of freshwater fish populations and the pressures affecting them in Scotland, particularly water quality and genetic introgression. This report presents the latest analysis including data from 2023.
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New carbon footprint estimates for key agricultural enterprises
An official statistics in development publication for Scotland
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Scottish Greenhouse Gas Statistics 2023
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.
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Social Housing Net Zero Heat Fund: progress report May 2025
This progress report gives information on capital projects funded through the Scottish Government's Social Housing Net Zero Heat Fund.
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Energy Efficiency (Domestic Private Rented Property) (Scotland) Regulations 2026: partial BRIA
This partial business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) accompanies the Scottish Government consultation on the proposed regulations to introduce minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) in domestic private rented sector (PRS) properties.
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Draft Energy Efficiency (Domestic Private Rented Property) (Scotland) Regulations: consultation
This consultation seeks stakeholder views on proposals for the introduction of minimum energy efficiency standard (MEES) regulations for domestic private rented sector (PRS) properties in Scotland.
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NPF4 planning guidance: policy 2 - climate mitigation and adaptation
Planning guidance supporting the consistent, proportionate and effective application of National Planning Framework 4 Policy 2 on climate mitigation and adaptation.
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Record levels of peatland restored
Scotland on track to meet interim peatland restoration target.
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Single use vape ban comes into force
Powers to ban the sale and supply in Scotland.
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Growing offshore wind
Consultation to inform offshore wind developments in Scotland.
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Improving lives through local climate action
Scotland’s Climate Action Hubs to receive £6 million funding.
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Wild salmon strategy implementation plan: annual progress report 2024
The second annual progress report under the Scottish wild salmon strategy implementation plan covering progress in 2024.
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Scottish biodiversity strategy: report to Parliament 2020 to 2024
This report outlines and summarises progress against actions undertaken during the period 2020-2024 to address the seven outcomes and associated key steps set out in the 2020 Challenge for Scotland’s Biodiversity.
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Proposal for a National Park in Southwest Scotland: report
Report submitted by NatureScot in its role as Reporter, setting out the findings of the public consultation and providing advice for the Scottish Government regarding the Galloway and Ayrshire National Park proposal.
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Carbon Neutral Islands: financing roadmap
Financing roadmap for the Carbon Neutral Islands Project sets out future initiatives for the Project and different avenues to finance these.
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Major inward investment secured
Hydrogen Centre of Excellence will bring hundreds of jobs.
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Climate Change Plan: monitoring report 2025
The fifth annual monitoring progress report on the Climate Change Plan update (CCPu) which updated the 2018 Climate Change Plan (CCP) and was finalised in March 2021. The report is a statutory requirement set out in the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009.
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Nitrogen use efficiency in Scotland: annual report 2025
The latest report under section 5(1)(c) of the Climate Change (Nitrogen Balance Sheet) (Scotland) Regulations 2022, and complements the latest published version of the Nitrogen Balance Sheet for the year 2022.
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Scottish Nitrogen Balance Sheet 2022
Statistics on Scottish Nitrogen Balance Sheet published today.
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Supporting climate education and engagement
First Minister announces funding at award winning Eco-School.
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Draft bioenergy policy statement: consultation analysis
An analysis of the responses to our public consultation on the draft bioenergy policy statement.
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Milestone reached - £65 million invested in nature projects
Nature Restoration Fund extended following success.
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Programme for Government 2025 to 2026
It will focus on: eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, tackling the climate emergency, delivering high quality and sustainable public services.
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Just Transition Fund reopens for applications
£8.5 million to support new projects in the North East and Moray.
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£3.4 million for Scotland’s hydrogen future
Projects across the country to receive a share of funding.
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Ecosystem Restoration Code: engagement paper
Engagement paper for the Scottish Government-NatureScot partnership project to develop an Ecosystem Restoration Code (ERC) for Scotland. The paper summarises key evidence on the operation and scope of potential nature / biodiversity markets in Scotland.
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Tackling fuel poverty - periodic report 2021-2024: engagement responses
A list of stakeholder engagement responses which informed input into tackling fuel poverty in Scotland: periodic report 2021 to 2024.
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Views on climate crisis
Almost half of Scots say reaching net zero will improve their quality of life.
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Scotland’s Carbon Footprint: 1998-2021
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland
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Decarbonising homes and buildings
Revised Heat in Buildings Bill to be brought forward
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Green Heat Finance Taskforce: report - part 2
Transforming how buildings are heated can deliver multiple economic, health and environmental benefits. This second report by the independent Green Heat Finance Taskforce focuses on clean heat and energy efficiency financing options for place-based delivery, heat networks and social housing retrofit.
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Climate change - public engagement strategy: mid-point review
The climate change public engagement strategy committed to a review at the mid-point of delivery. The review provides a summary of activities delivered since the publication of the strategy, reflects on the approach being taken and recommends improvements to achieve objectives in future delivery.
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Tackling Fuel Poverty in Scotland: periodic report 2021-2024
The first three year periodic report outlining the progress made between publication of the fuel poverty strategy in December 2021 to December 2024.
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Closer energy and climate cooperation with the EU: position paper
Scottish Government priorities for re-building a closer relationship between the UK and EU on energy and climate after Brexit.
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Procurement strategy: April 2025 to March 2028
The Scottish Government's procurement strategy describes how we plan to carry out our regulated procurements for the next three years.
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National Islands Plan: annual report 2024
The Islands (Scotland) Act 2018 requires that a report is presented to Parliament each year setting out the progress made towards delivery of the National Islands Plan. This report sets out progress made during the 2024 reporting year.
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Climate Change Act – Section 72: fifteenth annual report
Information and conclusions fulfilling annual reporting requirements on the operation of Section 3F of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (introduced by Section 72 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009).
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Environment strategy: transformative changes for sustainability
Independent report by Professor Valerie Nelson on behalf of the Scottish Government to inform the development of the forthcoming Scottish Government environment strategy.
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Environment strategy: global environmental impacts of consumption and production
Independent report from the James Hutton Institute on behalf of the Scottish Government on global impacts of consumption and production in Scotland. This research is being used to inform the forthcoming Scottish Government environment strategy.
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Strengthening approach to household recycling collection services
Scottish Government is seeking views on potential changes to recycling and waste management.
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COP29: outcomes, achievements, and costs
Outcomes, achievements, and costs associated with the Scottish Government’s presence at the 2024 COP29 (climate change) event.
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Bee Health Improvement Partnership (BHIP) Annual Report 2024
This second annual report of the Bee Health Improvement Partnership (BHIP) provides an overview of its activities and progress during the second year of Scotland's second 10-year Honey Bee Health Strategy, which was published in 2022.
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Scotland's fisheries management strategy 2020 to 2030: delivery plan update 2025
The 2025 update to Scotland's fisheries management strategy delivery plan shows the progress with delivering key aspects of the Strategy since 2020.
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Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill: islands and communities impact assessment
Islands and communities impact assessment for the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill.
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Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill: equality impact assessment
Equality impact assessment for the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill.
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National Flood Resilience Strategy - Gaelic version - Ro-innleachd Nàiseanta airson Seasmhachd an Aghaidh Thuiltean
Ro-innleachd Nàiseanta airson Seasmhachd an Aghaidh Thuiltean
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Investing in renewables revolution
£10 million planned for Port of Nigg project.
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Climate Action Hub Programme: funding awards
A detailed breakdown of the funding awarded to the organisations leading Climate Action Hubs in their area.
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Procurement - national collaborative: service enhancement plan March 2025
This plan sets out the vision to improve end-to-end customer service to increase usage of current procurement frameworks and deliver even more savings, as well as identifying areas of potential growth.
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Investing in nature: a plan to support investment in biodiversity and climate adaptation in Scotland
A plan of action to support the creation of a nature finance system that enables funding and finance to flow into high integrity biodiversity outcomes, supporting our Strategic Biodiversity Framework.
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Just Transition: draft plan for transport in Scotland
This draft plan identifies the key challenges and opportunities that the transport sector faces in making a just transition to net zero. We are seeking views as part of a public consultation, which will run until 19th May 2025.
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Just Transition: draft plan for transport in Scotland: easy read
This easy read version of the draft plan identifies the key challenges and opportunities that the transport sector faces in making a just transition to net zero. We are seeking views as part of a public consultation, which will run until 19 May 2025.
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Climate change duties - draft statutory guidance for public bodies: consultation
Public bodies have duties to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contribute to the delivery of the Scottish National Adaptation Plan, and to act in the most sustainable way. This consultation seeks your views on draft guidance for public bodies in putting these climate change duties into practice.
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The Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill - Child Rights and Wellbeing Impact Assessment (CRWIA)
Child Rights and Wellbeing Impact Assessment (CRWIA) for the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill
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Restoring Scotland’s natural environment
New targets to enhance nature and protect biodiversity.
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Planning, Infrastructure and Place Advisory Group: annual report 2024
Annual report covering the activities of the Planning Infrastructure and Place Advisory Group in 2024. Prepared in Collaboration with Scottish Futures Trust.
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National Flood Resilience Strategy: consultation analysis
Analysis of the responses to the National Flood Resilience Strategy consultation exercise.
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Preparing for sustainable farming
Payments to continue in 2025-26.
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Energy Performance Certificate reform – lodgement fees and penalty charges: technical consultation
Technical consultation paper on the proposed changes to lodgement fees and penalty charges, as part of our reform of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC).
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Energy Performance Certificate reform – lodgement fees and penalty charges: technical consultation - partial BRIA
Business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) for the technical consultation on the proposed changes to lodgement fees and penalty charges, as part of our reform of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
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Growing Orkney’s renewables potential
Investment in significant offshore wind project.
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New deal for agriculture
Flexible grants to drive efficiency, support nature and climate friendly farming.
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Investing in community energy
£9 million for community energy generation and energy efficiency improvements.
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Scottish climate action hubs: independent evaluation
A report of an independent evaluation of the climate action hubs in the Northeast of Scotland and the Highlands, Orkney and Shetland carried out by CAG Consultants.
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Scottish climate action hubs: models research
A research into existing models of community climate action hubs in the UK and internationally carried out by Changeworks.
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Energy Skills Passport
Pilot to support oil and gas workers transition to renewables.
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Reforming Energy Performance Certificates
Changes to help underpin Net Zero journey
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Energy Performance Certificate reform consultation: response
Our response to the 2023 Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) reform consultation. The response sets out our intentions to reform EPCs by introducing new ratings, redesigning the certificates, and improvements to the operational infrastructure.
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Heat network projects: quarterly report - January 2025
Information on the capital and pre-capital projects which have been funded through Scotland's Heat Network Fund, Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme, Social Housing Net Zero Heat Fund and the Heat Network Support Unit.
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Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme: January 2025
A collection of reports on the programme.
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National flood resilience strategy: equality impact assessment and fairer Scotland duty assessment
The combined equality impact assessment and Fairer Scotland Duty Assessment for the National Flood Resilience Strategy.
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Protection of Water Against Agricultural Nitrate Pollution (Scotland) Regulations 1996: implementation report 2020 to 2023
This implementation report, published every four years, summarises the status of water quality and the impact of action programmes on water quality and agricultural practices, in accordance with the Protection of Water Against Agricultural Nitrate Pollution (Scotland) Regulations 1996.
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Empowering local climate action
Climate Action Hubs in every area of Scotland.
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Scottish new National Parks - phase 2 - strategic environmental assessment (SEA): SEA reasonable alternatives report
Strategic environmental assessment (SEA) addendum report for the future of National Parks proposals in Scotland
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Flood Resilience Strategy: case studies
Examples of diverse initiatives around Scotland that are in some way contributing to our flood resilience.
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Carbon Neutral Islands Project: progress report 2023 – 2024 - Gaelic version
Bho 2021, tha sinn air taic a thoirt do shia eileanan Albannach (Barraigh, Cumaradh, Hoy, Ìle, Ratharsair agus Yell) leis an amas làn chothromachadh carboin a bhith aca ro 2040. Tha an aithisg seo a’ mìneachadh an adhartais nach bu bheag a rinneadh thar nan sia eileanan tro 2023 agus 2024.
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National Flood Resilience Strategy: Easy Read
The easy read version of the National Flood Resilience Strategy.
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National Flood Resilience Strategy: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment undertaken for the National Flood Resilience Strategy.
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Marine Protected Area network: 2024 report to the Scottish Parliament
A report to the Scottish Parliament on progress being made in implementing Scotland's Marine Protected Area (MPA) network.
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National Flood Resilience Strategy
Sets out a vision for a flood resilient Scotland through to 2045 and beyond.
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Improving Scotland’s flood resilience
National Flood Advisory Service to be established.
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Boosting reuse and recycling
2030 Route map to circular economy unveiled.
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National Marine Plan 2 - planning position statement: consultation - easy read
The Planning Position Statement (PPS) is the culmination of work done to date on the development of Scotland’s National Marine Plan 2 (NMP2). This is an easy read version. Take part in the consultation: https://consult.gov.scot/marine-scotland/national-marine-plan-2-planning-position-statement/
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Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 implementation - assessing Scotland's water environment: policy statement
This policy statement and the associated Standards and Status Directions are intended to provide stakeholders with a better understanding of our approach to the protection of the water environment through the Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 (WEWS) .
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£150 million for offshore wind
Capital investment almost trebled to unlock private sector growth.
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Interactive map
New tool shares information on publicly-owned land.
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Environment Statistics from the Scottish Household Survey 2023
An Official Statistics Publication
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Realising Scotland’s hydrogen potential
Plan for exports published.
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Tackling the nature emergency
Ambition to halt nature loss by 2030.
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Acting Net Zero Secretary comments on COP29
Call to accelerate climate action ahead of COP30.
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Marine mammals: methodology for combining data
This report introduces a method for integrating digital aerial survey data and passive acoustic baseline data to record the abundance and distribution of marine mammals. The report applies the method in a test case study and provides recommendations on data collection.
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Seabirds: strategic ornithological compensatory measures: review
A review of potential strategic ornithological compensatory measures, assessing their practical and ecological feasibility in the Scottish context
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Crofting law reform
Analysis of consultation responses published.
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Driving progress on global climate financing
Investment to support just resilience projects.
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New Build Heat Standard (amended) 2024: business and regulatory impact assessment
Addendum to the business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) prepared to support an amendment to the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS). This considers impacts of permitting the use of bioenergy and peat heating systems, and all secondary heating systems in new buildings.
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Wood burning stoves to be permitted in new homes
Review addresses concerns from rural communities
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New Build Heat Standard (amended) 2024: island communities impact assessment
Addition to the New Build Heat Standard 2024 – island and communities impact assessment . It is necessary to review this in conjunction with the fuller island communities impact assessment (ICIA) to ensure the context of earlier decision making and measures are fully understood.
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Grangemouth's just transition
Workforce and community asked for views.
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Acting Net Zero Secretary at COP29
Scotland to continue influencing on global climate action
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Climate Change Bill passed
Carbon budget approach to setting climate targets agreed.
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National Marine Plan 2 - planning position statement: consultation
This Planning Position Statement (PPS) is the culmination of our work to date on the development of Scotland’s National Marine Plan 2 (NMP2) and consolidates stakeholder feedback, setting out the latest development of high-level objectives and policy ideas for NMP2. Take part in the consultation: https://consult.gov.scot/marine-scotland/national-marine-plan-2-planning-position-statement/
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Attracting private investment in nature
Launch of Scotland’s Natural Capital Market Framework.
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Natural Capital Market Framework
Scotland's natural environment is at the heart of our identity, economy, and communities. This document supports responsible, values-led investment in natural capital through the expansion of high-integrity voluntary carbon markets, and development of opportunities to invest in biodiversity.
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Nature’s role in economy
Jobs and sectors dependent on sustainable natural world.
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Natural capital - importance to the Scottish economy: research
This research identifies sectors reliant on natural capital in Scotland and quantifies the economic value of these nature-dependent sectors at national and regional levels. The methodology values our economy's dependence on nature, estimating £40 billion economic output and 261,000 jobs supported.
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Investment in electric vehicle charging network
Expansion announced ahead of Ayr Travelling Cabinet.
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Scotland's Vision for Trade: annual report - October 2024
Our third annual report on Scotland's Vision for Trade, outlining the range of specific actions that we have taken over the past year and our continued ambition to make trade-related decisions based on the principles of inclusive growth, wellbeing, sustainability, net zero and good governance
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National litter and flytipping strategy: baseline report
This report was completed as part of the National Litter and Flytipping Strategy (NLFS) year one action plan, action 18; to Improving consistency of flytipping data data by developing a flytipping baseline for Scotland, identifying data gaps and changes that may be needed in the future.
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National litter and flytipping strategy: update and year 2 action plan
This report sets out the progress made on delivering the National Litter and Flytipping Strategy (NLFS) and contains updates on the year one action plan and outlines actions for year 2, this includes a number of continuing actions that have been progressing since 1 April 2024.
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Social housing: net zero progress report - quarter 2 2024
Quarter 2 2024 progress reports on the social housing net zero heat fund.
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Water industry - Scottish Government Investment Group - Committed List performance progress report: quarter 3 2023/24
Sets out how Scottish Water is progressing with the delivery of projects and programmes included on the ‘Committed List’ and confirms the position up to the end of December 2023 (Q3 2023/24).
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Water industry - Scottish Government Investment Group - Development List performance progress report: report quarter 3 2023/24
Sets out how Scottish Water is progressing in developing interventions to address the needs on the ‘Development List’ up to the end of December 2023 (Q3 2023/24).
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Conservation of Atlantic salmon - gene banking: principles and considerations
This report examines the procedures, considerations, risks and opportunities of gene banking for Atlantic salmon conservation and restoration in Scotland. Presented is a brief overview of live gene banking and a detailed focus on cryobanking to preserve gametic material through freezing and storage.
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Heat in Buildings: progress report 2024
Annual update on progress against our Heat in Buildings Strategy and Monitoring and Evaluation Framework.
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Orkney ferry funding
Government support to help council replace fleet.
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Humanitarian Emergency Fund: annual report 2023-2024
A report on the impact of projects funded through the Humanitarian Emergency Fund in 2023 to 2024.
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Humanitarian Emergency Fund: annual report 2023-2024 - executive summary
A summary of the report on the impact of projects funded through the Humanitarian Emergency Fund in 2023 to 2024.
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First Minister confirms awards from Marine Fund Scotland
£14 million for marine industries and coastal and island communities in 2024/25.
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Charging for single-use disposable beverage cups: consultation - easy read
An easy read version of the public consultation on the proposed implementation of charging for single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Single-use disposable beverage cups charge: equality impact assessment – interim report - easy read
Easy read version of interim equality impact assessment report, to support the consultation on the proposed implementation of charging for single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Supporting net zero in construction
Aggregates Tax Bill aims to increase use of recycled materials.
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National Islands Plan: Implementation Route Map 2024
Details how we will deliver our priorities over the lifetime of the National Islands Plan. It identifies the methods to monitor progress towards fulfilling the many commitments in the Plan and sets out timescales for delivery of our work.
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Heat network projects: quarterly report - September 2024
Information on the capital and pre-capital projects which have been funded through Scotland's Heat Network Fund, Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme, Social Housing Net Zero Heat Fund and the Heat Network Support Unit.
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Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme: September 2024
Information on the projects which have received funding through the Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme.
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National Good Food Nation Plan: consultation analysis - executive summary - easy read
Easy read version of the executive summary of the independent analysis of responses to the consultation on the national Good Food Nation plan.
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National Good Food Nation Plan: consultation analysis
An independent analysis of the responses to the consultation on the national Good Food Nation plan.
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Climate change - Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029: monitoring and evaluation framework
Framework we will use to monitor and evaluate progress in delivering the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024 to 2029. The Adaptation Plan sets out the actions that the Scottish Government and partners will take to respond to the impacts of climate change from 2024 to 2029.
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Climate change - Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029: child rights and wellbeing impact assessment
Child rights and wellbeing impact assessment undertaken for the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024 to 2029.
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Climate change - Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029: children's version
Children's version of the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024 to 2029. This version can be used to support learning and sets out the actions the Scottish Government and partners will take to respond to the impacts of climate change from 2024 to 2029.
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Climate change: Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024 - 2029 - easy read
Easy read version of the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-29. The Adaptation Plan sets out the actions that the Scottish Government and partners will take to respond to the impacts of climate change from 2024 to 2029.
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Climate change - Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029: joint equalities impact assessment and Fairer Scotland Duty assessment
Joint equalities impact assessment and Fairer Scotland Duty assessment undertaken for Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029.
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Climate change - Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment undertaken for the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-29.
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Climate change: Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029
Sets out the actions that the Scottish Government and partners will take to respond to the impacts of climate change. This Adaptation Plan sets out actions from 2024 to 2029.
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Offshore Wind Focus
Overview of our strategic assessment of the market opportunities and next steps that will underpin the public sector’s collective investment decisions in offshore wind, supporting delivery of our green industrial strategy.
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Managing deer for climate and nature: consultation analysis
Analysis of responses to the Scottish Government consultation on 'managing deer for climate and nature'.
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Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill: island communities impact assessment
An assessment of the impact of the Climate Change (Emission Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill on people living in remote rural and island communities.
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Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets)(Scotland) Bill: Fairer Scotland Duty statement
A statement on the decision not to carry out a Fairer Scotland Duty for the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill.
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Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets)(Scotland) Bill: child rights and wellbeing impact assessment
An assessment of the impact of the Climate Change (Emission Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill on the rights and wellbeing of children.
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Progress in reducing emissions in Scotland 2023: SG response
Scottish Government's response to the Climate Change Committee’s 2023 'Progress in reducing emissions in Scotland' report, as published in March 2024.
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Reducing greenhouse gas emissions - proposals and policies: report
Report prepared under section 36 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, setting out proposals and policies to compensate in future years for the excess emissions resulting from the missed 2021 and 2022 emissions reduction targets.
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Climate Change Bill published
Establishment of carbon budget approach to setting climate targets.
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Delivering support for families
Programme for Government 2024-25.
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Climate change - draft Scottish national adaptation plan 3 2024 - 2029: consultation analysis
Analysis of responses to consultation on the draft Scottish National Adaptation Plan 3 (SNAP3) 2024 to 2029.
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Climate change delivery: improvement report
This improvement plan is in response to the Environmental Standards Scotland Investigation into climate change delivery, and sets out actions the Scottish Government will take in relation to the reporting of scope 3 emissions for local authorities in Scotland.
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Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cups Charge: Partial Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment
A partial Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment, to support the consultation on the proposed implementation of charging for single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cups Charge Strategic Environmental Assessment: Environmental Report
A partial Strategic Environmental Assessment Report, to support the consultation on the proposed implementation of charging for single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cups Charge: Equality Impact Assessment – Interim Report
An interim Equality Impact Assessment Report, to support the consultation on the proposed implementation of charging for single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cups Charge: Island Communities Impact Assessment Report: Pre-Consultation Interim Report
An interim Island Communities Impact Assessment Report, to support the consultation on the proposed implementation of charging for single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Charging for single-use disposable beverage cups: consultation
A public consultation on the proposed implementation of charging for single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cups Charge: Fairer Scotland Duty Summary
A Fairer Scotland Duty Summary to support the consultation on the proposed charge on single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland.
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Realistic Medicine - Taking Care: Chief Medical Officer for Scotland annual report 2023 to 2024
This is the Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Gregor Smith's fourth annual report, and the eighth report on Realistic Medicine. The overarching aim of Realistic Medicine is to deliver better value care for patients, and for our health and care system.
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Scotland's Land Use Strategy Annual Progress Report – 2023/2024
Fifth annual progress report on Scotland's land use strategy, as required under Section 37A of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009. It covers the period of March 2023 to March 2024.
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Annual NHS Scotland Climate Emergency & Sustainability Report 2024
This year’s report shows how NHS Scotland is working to reduce its environmental impact and adapting its infrastructure and services to the address the risks presented by climate change. It also shows that many changes the NHS seeks to deliver have other potential benefits.
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National Marine Plan 2 (NMP2) Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Scoping Report: Consultation Analysis
Analysis of responses to the consultation on the proposed scope and level of detail for the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of National Marine Plan 2 (NMP2).
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Scotland's Circular Economy and Waste Route Map to 2030 : Analysis of consultation responses
Analysis of responses to the 2024 consultation on Scotland's Circular Economy and Waste Route Map to 2030. The Route Map sets out strategic direction and actions for delivering more sustainable use of our resources and our vision for Scotland’s circular economy to 2030.
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Overcoming barriers to the engagement of supply-side actors in Scotland's peatland natural capital markets - Annexes Volume
Research with landowners and managers in Scotland to better understand their motivations and preferences to help inform the design of policy and finance mechanisms for high-integrity peatland natural capital markets.
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Building regulations - energy and environmental standards: consultation on proposed changes
Stage 1 consultation on determining the principles for a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard.
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Overcoming barriers to the engagement of supply-side actors in Scotland's peatland natural capital markets - Final Report
Research with landowners and managers in Scotland to better understand their motivations and preferences to help inform the design of policy and finance mechanisms for high-integrity peatland natural capital markets.
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World Heritage status for Flow Country
UNESCO recognise global importance of its natural habitat.
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Waste heat recovery: introductory guide
Information about waste heat recovery and its potential as a low carbon heat source, as well as the process of capturing and utilising heat from industrial and commercial processes. The recovered heat can be used in a range of applications including heat networks.
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New zero emission buses
£41.7 million investment in bus decarbonisation.
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Wellbeing and Sustainable Development Bill: consultation analysis
The Scottish Government sought views on a proposed Wellbeing and Sustainable Development Bill. The consultation closed on 14 February 2024 and this report is the analysis of your views.
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Planning and climate change guidance: research report issue 3
Research comprising a desk-based study and stakeholder engagement with developers and decision-makers to develop understanding of the approaches currently being used to both assess and minimise lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions of development proposals. This research is to inform National Planning Framework 4.
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Waste management: code of practice on sampling and reporting at materials facilities - June 2024
This updated code of practice sets out a number of requirements with regard to the sampling and reporting of materials received by materials facilities. Requirements under the new code will start from 1 April 2025.
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Water, wastewater and drainage: consultation analysis
Summarises the responses that we received on our consultation on the the water, wastewater and drainage principles and considerations in developing policy for the future of the water industry in Scotland in response to the climate emergency.
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Scottish Agriculture Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Nitrogen Use Statistics
An official statistics in development publication for Scotland.
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Circular Economy Bill passed
New powers to increase reuse and recycling rates.
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Agriculture Bill to become law
Supporting sustainable and regenerative farming and crofting.
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Statistics on Scottish Greenhouse Gas Emissions published today.
Scottish Greenhouse Gas Statistics 2022
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Flood resilience strategy consultation: Gaelic version
This consultation seeks your views on Scotland's first Flood Resilience Strategy, which will lay out what we need to do in the long term to make our places more flood resilient. The consultation asks questions about our proposed principles and the three key themes of people, places and processes
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Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 strategy: progress report
This sets out the policy framework for air quality in Scotland to 2026 and includes a comprehensive list of actions across ten policy areas. This third annual report summarises progress on actions since the last report in September 2023.
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Flood resilience strategy consultation: easy read
This consultation seeks your views on Scotland's first Flood Resilience Strategy, which will lay out what we need to do in the long term to make our places more flood resilient. The consultation asks questions about our proposed principles and the three key themes of people, places and processes.
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Record high peatland restoration
Improving climate change resilience.
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Climate change monitoring report 2024
The fourth annual statutory monitoring report against the updated 2018 Climate Change Plan, as per the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019.
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Nitrogen use efficiency in Scotland: annual report 2024
The latest report under section 5(1)(c) of the Climate Change (Nitrogen Balance Sheet) (Scotland) Regulations 2022, and complements the latest published version of the Nitrogen Balance Sheet for the year 2021.
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Planning circular 1/2024: householder permitted development rights
Guidance on householder permitted development rights (PDR). It explains what works people can carry out to alter or improve their home without an application for planning permission.
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£5 million for Scotland's island communities
Funding to tackle rising costs and invest in local infrastructure.
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Scottish Climate Change Adaptation Programme: progress report 2023 to 2024
Fifth annual progress report on Climate Ready Scotland: Scotland’s Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019 to 2024.
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June Programme for Government
Immediate focus on Scotland’s priorities.
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Scotland’s Carbon Footprint: 1998-2020
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland
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Community action to reach net zero
£5.5 million for Scotland’s Climate Action Hubs.
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Flood resilience strategy: consultation
This consultation seeks your views on Scotland's first Flood Resilience Strategy, which will lay out what we need to do in the long term to make our places more flood resilient. The consultation asks questions about our proposed principles and the three key themes of people, places and processes.
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Consultation on building flood resilient places
Supporting adaptation to climate change.
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Local air quality management: policy guidance
Guidance to help local authorities with their local air quality management (LAQM) duties under Part IV of the Environment Act 1995.
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Community Energy Generation Growth Fund
£1.5 million to support community projects.
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Scottish procurement policy handbook
This handbook provides guidance on the rules and policies that apply to the procurement activities of public bodies in Scotland and highlights some key legal obligations.
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Aithris Bhliadhnail air Plana Nàiseanta nan Eilean 2023
Gaelic version of the National Islands Plan annual report 2023
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Local living and 20 minute neighbourhoods - planning guidance: final impact assessment report update
This impact assessment report update relates to our planning guidance on local living and 20 minute neighbourhoods which was produced to support the implementation of the policy framework within the fourth National Planning Framework (NPF4).
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Local living and 20 minute neighbourhoods: planning guidance
The guidance on local living and 20 minute neighbourhoods aims to encourage, promote and facilitate the application of the Place Principle and create connected and compact neighbourhoods which prioritise environmental, social and economic sustainability.
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Lèirmheas air Plana Nàiseanta nan Eilean: Anailis air a' Cho-chomhairle
Gaelic version of a report setting out the main findings of the public consultation carried out to inform a review of the National Islands Plan 2019.
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National Islands Plan review: consultation analysis
The report sets out the main findings of the public consultation carried out to inform a review of the National Islands Plan 2019.
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Ban on wet wipes containing plastic
Protecting the environment and reducing marine litter
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Stepping up action to net zero
New package of climate action measures announced.
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Driving global climate innovation
First Minister launches new technology to decarbonise global shipping.
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Natural capital - market framework: engagement paper
This engagement paper summarises the key natural capital market framework co -development issues and questions that will be explored. The content will be used to help inform, guide and support all participants during the engagement and co-development process.
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COP28 net-zero exports close to £70 million
Scotland ‘leading the way’ on global climate action and just transition.
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Climate Engagement Fund reopens
Continued support for climate action in communities.
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Climate Change Act – Section 72: fourteenth annual report
Information and conclusions fulfilling annual reporting requirements on the operation of Section 3F of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (introduced by Section 72 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009).
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National Islands Plan: annual report 2023
The Islands (Scotland) Act 2018 requires that a report is presented to Parliament each year setting out the progress made towards delivery of the National Islands Plan. This report sets out progress made during the 2023 reporting year.
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Heat Networks Delivery Plan: review report 2024
The Heat Networks (Scotland) Act 2021 requires that the Heat Networks Delivery Plan (HNDP) is reviewed every two years, and that Scottish Ministers prepare a report of our progress towards meeting the provisions of the Act and other supporting policies. This report fulfils the requirement to review and report on the HNDP.
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Simplifying the planning process
Updating permitted development rights in response to cost and climate challenges.
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The Scottish Government Procurement Strategy April 2024 – March 2028
The Scottish Government's procurement strategy describes how we plan to carry out our regulated procurements for the next four years.
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Environment Strategy: progress report - March 2024
Progress report on the development of the Environment Strategy, as required by section 47 of the UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Act 2021.
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Agriculture and Rural Communities Bill
Supporting sustainable farming and crofting.
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United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child - concluding observations 2023: SG initial response
This report sets out the Scottish Government’s (SG) initial response to the UN Committee’s Concluding Observations. It outlines the progress made in relation to children’s rights in Scotland since the publication of the Position Statement of November 2022
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Wild salmon strategy implementation plan progress report: 2023-2024
A progress report setting out the progress towards delivering the actions in the wild salmon strategy implementation plan in 2023/24 to protect and restore wild salmon populations.
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Bioenergy - draft policy statement: consultation
We are seeking views on the priorities and principles that we have set out for the use of bioenergy, as well as views on the potential to scale up domestic production of biomass via planting of perennial energy crops.
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Land Reform Bill
Transfer test to become part of large rural landholding sales.
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Rural and island community support
Spring Budget needs to invest in environment and food production.
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Nominations for new National Park
Assessment of nominations will now begin.
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Goose management policy review 2022
Update on progress in delivering goose management policies. this sets out proposals to refresh policies for delivery of goose management over the next 5 to 10 years and highlights emerging issues that will require actions in the medium to longer term.
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Action on single-use vapes
Sale and supply legislation published.
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Air quality: key behaviours report
Report commissioned to identify key public behaviours that have the most impact on improving air quality, and to support future public engagement work. The report focuses on the actions households and the general public can take to support improving outdoor air quality.
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The Environment Strategy for Scotland: Delivering the Environment Strategy Outcome on Scotland's Global Footprint - Evidence Base & Policy Levers
This report presents evidence and initial recommendations on how the Scottish Government could use the available policy levers to help ensure Scotland’s international environmental impact is sustainable.
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The Environment Strategy for Scotland: Driving the Transition to a Nature Positive Economy - A Synthesis of Policy Levers for Governments
This report supports the research project ‘Delivering the Environment Strategy Outcome on Scotland’s Economy: Evidence base and Policy levers’. It focuses on the transition to a nature positive economy, summarises key evidence, and presents a synthesis of potential actions.
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The Environment Strategy for Scotland: Reducing Scotland's International Environmental Impact - Learning from International Best Practices
This report supports the research project ‘Delivering the Environment Strategy Outcome on Scotland’s Global Footprint: Evidence Base and Policy Levers’. It summarises examples of international best practice in relation to policy levers for achieving a sustainable global footprint.
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The Environment Strategy for Scotland: Delivering the Environment Strategy Outcome on Scotland's Economy - Evidence Base & Policy Levers
This report presents evidence and initial recommendations on how the Scottish Government could use the available policy levers to support the transformations in Scotland’s economy needed to help tackle the climate and nature emergencies.
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Climate change - national adaptation plan 2024 to 2029: consultation - easy read
The impacts of climate change are already being felt by people in Scotland. That is why, as well as taking action to reduce emissions, we must also take steps to adapt to climate change. This is an easy-read version of the consultation on the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024 to 2029.
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Scotland's International Strategy
This strategy sets out our approach to international engagement and delivery to the end of the current parliamentary term.
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Am Plana Nàiseanta airson Dùthaich a tha Math a Thaobh Biadh: Sgrìobhainn Chochomhairleachaidh
This consultation covers the content of the national Good Food Nation Plan. It seeks views on the Outcomes; ways of measuring progress; and how different groups envision life in a Good Food Nation. It also seeks views on specified functions. This is a Gaelic translation of the consultation.
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Geàrr-iomradh air a' Phlana Nàiseanta airson Dùthaich a tha Math a Thaobh Biadh
The national Good Food Nation Plan sets out six over-arching Outcomes; the range of targets and indicators that will be used to gauge progress towards achieving them; and details of food-related policies and initiatives from across the Scottish Government. This is a Gaelic summary of the Plan.
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National Good Food Nation Plan: consultation - easy read
Easy read version of our consultation on the national Good Food Nation Plan, which sets out the Government's goals for food and how we will achieve them.
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National Good Food Nation Plan
The national Good Food Nation Plan sets out six over-arching Outcomes for a Good Food Nation; the range of targets and indicators that will be used to gauge progress towards achieving them; and details of a wide range of food-related policies and initiatives from across the Scottish Government.
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National Good Food Nation Plan: consultation
We are consulting on the first national Good Food Nation Plan. We are seeking views on the national Good Food Nation Outcomes, ways of measuring progress and how different groups envision life in a Good Food Nation. It also seeks views on specified functions.
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Circular economy and waste route map to 2030: consultation
The route map sets out strategic direction for delivering our system-wide, comprehensive vision Scotland’s circular economy from now to 2030. Building on a first consultation (2022), we are consulting on key priority actions that will unlock progress across the waste hierarchy.
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Circular economy and waste route map to 2030: strategic environmental assessment - environmental report
Environmental report relating to our consultation on key priority actions that will unlock progress across the waste hierarchy.
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Food waste: review of 2019 waste reduction action plan
A review of food waste reduction progress in Scotland following publication of the Food Waste Reduction Action Plan in 2019.
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Infrastructure investment plan 2021-2022 to 2025-2026: carbon assessment
This assessment draws on a range of evidence, including results from a taxonomy assessment, to carbon assess the 2021 Infrastructure Investment Plan.
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Greenhouse gas emissions projections: phase 1 and phase 2 modelling results
Analysis undertaken by Ricardo-AEA for the Scottish Government to provide an estimated projection of Scottish emissions from 2019 to 2045 which capture announced Scottish and UK policies.
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Ro-innleachd airson Saidheans Mara is Ùrghnàthachadh
’S e seo an Ro-innleachd ùr airson Saidheans Mara is Ùr-ghnàthachadh aig Riaghaltas na h-Alba. Tha i a’ cur amasan an cèill airson saidheans mara agus ùr-ghnàthachadh ann an Alba agus a’ stèidheachadh sia builean gus barrachd bhuannachdan fhaighinn bho ar n-obair saidheans, fianais agus dàta.
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Marine science and innovation strategy
Establishes the vision for marine science and innovation in Scotland and six outcomes to strengthen the impact of marine science, evidence and data.
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Managing deer for climate and nature: consultation
We are consulting on proposals to modernise the legislation which governs deer management in Scotland and ensure it is fit for purpose in the context of the biodiversity and climate crises, alongside a small number of proposals concerned with farmed and kept deer.
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Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme: capital projects - December 2023
Information on the projects which have received funding through the Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme.
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First Minister at Climate Week NYC: overview, outcomes and costs
Details of the First Minister's activities at Climate Week NYC, alongside costs from the visit.
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Ending the sale of peat: consultation analysis
Analysis of responses to our consultation on ending the sale of peat in Scotland.
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Scottish Budget 2024 to 2025: high level carbon assessment
Estimate of the consumption-based carbon emissions associated with planned budget expenditure.
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Green land investment in rural Scotland: social and economic impacts
Outlines the findings of research into the range of potential social and economic impacts relating to new forms of green land investment in rural Scotland.
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Heat transition: public engagement strategic framework
A guide to how we will work with others to deliver a programme of public awareness raising, education and participation around clean heat and energy efficiency.
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Scottish Household Survey 2022: Key Findings
Selected findings from the 2022 Scottish Household Survey, organised by topic area.
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Wellbeing and Sustainable Development Bill: consultation
We are seeking views on our proposed Wellbeing and Sustainable Development Bill, which aims to improve decision making and the implementation of the National Performance Framework to ensure that all policy and delivery accounts for wellbeing and sustainable development.
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Wellbeing and Sustainable Development Bill: consultation - easy read
We want to hear from people about how we can make sure that the National Outcomes, sustainable development and wellbeing are thought about in public sector decision making. This document describes our proposals in this area.
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Scottish islands: data overview 2023
This report gives a snapshot of Scotland's island-level data as collated in the new Scottish Islands Data Dashboard and draws out key findings relating to each of the strategic objective topic areas set out in the National Islands Plan.
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Heat in Buildings Bill consultation - tell us what you think: easy read
An easy read version of our consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill - Changing how we heat our homes and buildings. We are seeking to set standards for energy efficiency and clean heat in homes and buildings.
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Negative Emissions Technologies (NETS): Feasibility Study
This study estimates the maximum Negative Emissions Technologies (NETs) potential achievable in Scotland, 2030 - 2050.
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Negative Emissions Technologies (NETS): Feasibility Study - Technical Appendices
Technical annex for study that estimates the maximum Negative Emissions Technologies (NETs) potential achievable in Scotland, 2030 - 2050.
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Investor Panel recommendations: Scottish Government response
The Scottish Government agrees with the Panel that there are characteristics of investor friendly states that Scotland should seek to emulate and that require a new and very different approach if Scotland is to attract the scale of global capital required. The Government accepts this challenge.
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Investor Panel: Mobilising international capital to finance the transition to Net Zero
Large scale private capital investment is needed to enable Scotland’s just transition to net zero. The Investor Panel’s proposals will help to make Scotland a globally competitive investment destination. They include clear priorities, more agile decision making and upskilling Ministers and officials
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Delivering net zero for Scotland's buildings - Heat in Buildings Bill: consultation
A consultation on proposals to make new laws around the energy efficiency of our homes and buildings and the way we heat those buildings.
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Social housing net zero standard consultation: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment for the consultation on a new Social Housing Net Zero Standard in Scotland.
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Heat in buildings - multiple ownership mixed use buildings: energy retrofit possibilities
Scotland has many buildings which have multiple owners and mixed uses. This report categorises those buildings further and identifies potential solutions to decarbonise their heat supply and improve energy efficiency, in line with the heat in buildings strategy.
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Tenements Short Life Working Group – energy efficiency and zero emissions heating: final report
The Tenements Short Life Working Group present their recommendations to the Scottish Government on the best approach for decarbonising the heat supply of tenement buildings and achieving a good level of energy efficiency, in line with commitments in the Heat in Buildings Strategy.
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Social housing net zero standard consultation: interim equality impact assessment
Interim equality impact assessment for the consultation on a new social housing net zero standard in Scotland.
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Social housing net zero standard consultation: business regulatory impact assessment
A partial business regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) to set out potential impacts of the social housing net zero standard proposals.
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Social housing net zero standard consultation: child rights and wellbeing impact assessment
Child rights and wellbeing impact assessment (CRWIA) for the consultation on proposals for a new social housing net zero standard in Scotland.
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Heat in Buildings Bill consultation: business and regulatory impact assessment (partial)
Business and regulatory impact assessment (partial) in support of consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill.
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Heat in buildings monitoring and evaluation Framework
A monitoring and evaluation Framework for the Heat in Buildings Strategy to help track progress against the strategy.
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Social housing net zero standard: consultation
This consultation seeks views on a new Social Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS) in Scotland. This new standard will replace the second Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2).
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Heat in Buildings Bill consultation: child rights and wellbeing impact assessment
Child rights and wellbeing impact assessment(CRWIA) in support of consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill.
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Heat in Buildings Bill consultation: Fairer Scotland impact assessment
Fairer Scotland duty assessment in support of the consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill.
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Heat in Buildings Bill consultation: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment to support the consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill "Changing the way we heat our homes and buildings ".
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Net zero heating and energy efficiency standards - phase 1 and 2: qualitative research
The Scottish Government commissioned Energy Saving Trust and Taylor McKenzie to undertake research to explore attitudes of homeowners in Scotland to the potential regulatory standards that may be implemented over 2025 to 2045 , dependent on further consultation.
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Heat in Buildings Bill consultation: strategic environmental assessment
Strategic Environmental Assessment to support the consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill.
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Net zero heating and energy efficiency standards: research summary
Summary of research by Energy Saving Trust and Taylor McKenzie exploring the attitudes of homeowners in Scotland to the potential regulatory standards that may be implemented over 2025 to 2045, dependent on further consultation.
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Net zero heating and energy efficiency standards - phase 3 and 4: qualitative research
The Scottish Government commissioned Energy Saving Trust and Taylor McKenzie to undertake research to explore attitudes of homeowners in Scotland to the potential regulatory standards proposed to be implemented over 2025 – 2045 , dependent on further consultation.
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Heat in Buildings Bill consultation: equalities impact assessment
Equalities impact assessment (EQIA) to support the consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill "Changing the way we heat our homes and buildings".
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UK Emissions Trading Scheme: Island Communities Impact Assessment (ICIA)
This Island Communities Impact Assessment (ICIA) covers changes to the aviation and maritime sectors under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and their potential impact on island communities.
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UK Emissions Trading Scheme: Business and Regulations Impact Assessment (BRIA)
This Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment (BRIA) covers the potential impacts on Scottish businesses due to upcoming changes to the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
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Natural capital: economic benefits assessment
Outlines new economic analysis that quantifies the likely economic impacts, measured as output and jobs created, from hypothetical cross-sector regional and national programmes of natural capital investment in Scotland.
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Green Heat Finance Taskforce: report part 1 - November 2023
The independent Green Heat Finance Taskforce, has identified a suite of options which will allow individual property owners to access finance to cover the upfront costs for replacing polluting heating with clean heat solutions in the manner best suited to their own individual circumstances.
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Water, wastewater and drainage policy: consultation
This consultation seeks your views on our proposed principles and considerations in developing policy for the future of the water industry in Scotland in response to the climate emergency.
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Heat networks target 2035 consultation: business and regulatory impact assessment - partial
Partial business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) to our consultation on the 2035 target for the amount of heat to be supplied by heat networks.
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Marine piling - energy conversion factors in underwater radiated sound: review
A report which investigates the Energy Conversion Factor (ECF) method and provides recommendations regarding the modelling approaches for impact piling as used in environmental impact assessments (EIA) in Scottish Waters.
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Land use strategy: fourth annual progress report 2022-2023
Fourth annual progress report on Scotland's land use strategy, as required under Section 37A of The Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019. It covers the period of March 2022 to March 2023.
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How much do people in Scotland value characteristics of marine and coastal areas
This report summarises the results of a choice experiment survey that was designed to capture the preferences of Scottish people towards the management of marine and coastal areas in Scotland.
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Offshore wind - birds on migration in Scottish waters: strategic review
A report and stochastic Collision Risk Model (sCRM) tool identifying the migratory routes of bird species around the UK and Ireland which have the potential to be impacted by collision with offshore wind developments in Scottish waters.
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Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for the Agricultural Tenancies proposals Environmental Report
SEA is a systematic process for evaluating the environmental consequences of proposed plans, strategies, or programmes. This Report accompanies the Agricultural Tenancies proposals, within the Land Reform Bill.
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Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for the Small Landholdings and Land Use Tenancy Proposals Environmental Report
SEA is a systematic process for evaluating the environmental consequences of proposed plans, strategies, or programmes. This Report accompanies the Small Landholding and Land Use Tenancy proposals, within the Land Reform Bill.
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Understanding seabird behaviour at sea part 2: improved estimates of collision risk model parameters
Report detailing research using GPS tags to track Scottish seabirds at sea.
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Agricultural tenancies, small landholdings and land use tenancy proposals: strategic environmental assessment - consultation
This consultation provides you with the opportunity to examine the environmental impact of our proposed changes to agricultural tenancies, small landholdings, and the new land use tenancy.
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New National Parks: nominations guidance and appraisal framework
Information on the nomination process for the New National Park(s) project, including links to all key documents for nominating groups.
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Draft energy strategy and Just Transition plan: consultation analysis
Independent report prepared on behalf of the Scottish Government and provides an independent analysis of responses to the public consultation on the draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan.
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Future of National Parks: strategic environmental assessment - environmental report
This environmental report is part of the strategic environmental assessment for the future of National Parks in Scotland.
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Just Transition for the Grangemouth industrial cluster: discussion paper
A paper summarising the proposed approach to developing a Just Transition Plan for the industrial cluster of Grangemouth. This will support forthcoming engagement, in aid of a co-design process, that will shape the final Just Transition Plan.
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Nitrous Oxide emissions associated with 100% hydrogen boilers: research
Research to measure the gas composition of flue gas from hydrogen boilers under normal, real world operating conditions, with a view to establishing what, if any, greenhouse gases are emitted during combustion.
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New legal targets proposed for nature recovery
Further action to tackle the biodiversity crisis.
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Tackling poverty and growing the economy
First Minister to publish first Programme for Government.
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Driving green energy growth
Bute House Agreement delivering Scotland’s energy transition.
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Climate justice funding
Rwanda, Malawi and Zambia to receive £24 million.
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Environment - guiding principles: statutory guidance
This guidance provides information on how officials across government should apply the environmental principles when developing policy.
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Environment - guiding principles consultation: statutory guidance – Parliamentary statement and analysis report
As required by section 18(4) of the UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Act 2021 the Scottish Government has provided a parliamentary statement and an analysis report on the consultation on Scotland’s Guiding Principles on the Environment: Statutory Guidance.
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Salmon fishing - proposed river gradings for 2024 season: consultation
We are seeking views on the proposed river gradings for the 2024 salmon fishing season, which have been calculated from the annual assessment of the conservation status of wild Atlantic salmon in rivers across Scotland.
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Collaboration on green energy
DFM attends first Celtic Forum in Brittany.
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Scottish Energy Performance Certificates - new metrics: research
Research report summarising work to develop new EPC metrics for Scottish EPCs. This report accompanies the Energy Performance Certificate reform consultation.
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Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) reform: consultation
This consultation sets out our proposals to reform domestic and non-domestic Energy Performance Certificates.
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Heat networks target 2035 consultation: SG response
Government response to our consultation on the 2035 target for the amount of heat to be supplied by heat networks.
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National Litter and Flytipping strategy: island communities impact assessment
Summary of the island communities impact assessment (ICIA) undertaken for the National Litter and Flytipping strategy.
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Vision for sustainable aquaculture: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment for the vision for sustainable aquaculture.
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Vision for sustainable aquaculture
The Vision for sustainable aquaculture describes the Scottish Government’s long-term aspirations to 2045 for the finfish, shellfish and seaweed farming sectors, and the wider aquaculture supply chain.
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Vision for sustainable aquaculture: child rights and wellbeing screening sheet
Child rights and wellbeing screening sheet for the Vision for sustainable aquaculture
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UK Government urged to end carbon capture scheme delays
First Minister calls for action to end uncertainty on Acorn Project.
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National Islands Plan review: consultation
We are consulting on a review of the National Islands Plan, published in 2019. This review is required by the Islands (Scotland) Act 2018. We are seeking views on the impact and content of the current National Islands Plan.
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Biodiversity duty report 2018 to 2020
Report detailing how the Scottish Government furthered the conservation of biodiversity when exercising its functions, during the period 2018 to 2020 inclusive.
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New grant funding to decarbonise public sector buildings
Additional support for net zero transition.
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NHS Scotland - climate emergency and sustainability: annual report 2021 to 2022
Report for 2021 to 2022 providing information on; greenhouse gas emissions arising from the operations of NHS Scotland, actions which have been taken or are underway to reduce NHS Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact, and actions to adapt to climate change.
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National Islands Plan: implementation route map 2023
Details how we will deliver on the commitments in the National Islands Plan, over the coming year.
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Heat networks - thermal energy target 2035: consultation analysis
Analysis of responses to our consultation on the 2035 target for the amount of heat to be supplied by heat networks.
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Scotland's Vision for Trade: annual report - June 2023
Our second annual report on Scotland's Vision for Trade, outlining the range of specific actions that we have taken over the past year and our continued ambition to make trade-related decisions based on the principles of inclusive growth, wellbeing, sustainability, net zero and good governance.
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New strategy to tackle litter scourge published
Tougher sanctions for flytipping.
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National Litter and Flytipping Strategy
The National Litter and Flytipping Strategy sets out a refreshed approach to tackling litter and flytipping in order to protect and enhance Scotland’s environment; ensure safer and cleaner communities and contribute to a thriving circular economy for Scotland.
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Litter and flytipping strategy: fairer Scotland duty summary
A summary of the fairer Scotland duty assessment undertaken for the national litter and flytipping strategy.
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Litter and flytipping strategy: final business and regulatory impact assessment
The results of the final business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) undertaken for the national litter and flytipping strategy.
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Litter and flytipping strategy: equality impact assessment
Results of the equality impact assessment (EQIA) undertaken for the national litter and flytipping strategy.
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Litter and flytipping strategy: strategic environment assessment - post adoption statement
A strategic environmental assessment post adoption statement setting out how responses to the assessment have been taken into account for the national litter and flytipping strategy.
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Litter and flytipping: scale and cost
This report updates data referenced in the previous National Litter Strategy (2014) on the scale and cost of litter and flytipping in Scotland to inform the national litter and flytipping strategy (2023).
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Air quality report 2022: public engagement
Findings from a quantitative study exploring public perceptions of air quality in Scotland among adults.
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Infrastructure Investment Plan 2021-22 to 2025-26: programme pipeline update - March 2023
This pipeline provides information relating to key major infrastructure programmes with an investment of £20 million or more included at Annex D of our Infrastructure Investment Plan, published in February 2021.
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Infrastructure Investment Plan 2021-22 to 2025-26: progress report 2022 to 2023
Second annual progress report relating to the Infrastructure Investment Plan 2021-22 to 2025-26 which outlines the progress made in relation to the Plan’s three themes during the last year as well as key delivery achievements and activity planned for the coming year.
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Infrastructure Investment Plan 2021-22 to 2025-26: major capital projects progress update - March 2023
The following information relates to projects with a capital value of £5 million or more which are at the outline business case (or equivalent) approved stage or beyond.
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Just transition for the built environment and construction sector: a discussion paper
This discussion paper is intended to support engagement on a just transition for the built environment and construction sector. Building on this engagement, a draft targeted action plan and route map (late 23/24) will outline the key steps to delivering a fair transition for the sector.
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Just transition in land use and agriculture: a discussion paper
This discussion paper is intended to support engagement on a just transition for the land use and agriculture sectors. Building on this engagement, a draft targeted action plan and route map (late 23/24) will outline the key steps to delivering a fair transition.
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Just transition for the transport sector: a discussion paper
This discussion paper is intended to support engagement on a just transition for the transport sector. Building on this engagement, a draft targeted action plan and route map (late 23/24) will outline the key steps to delivering a fair transition for the sector.
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Climate Change Committee's (CCC) annual progress report 2022 recommendations: SG response
Scottish Government's response to the Climate Change Committee’s December 2022 report on Scotland’s progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
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Scottish Greenhouse Gas Statistics 2021
Official statistics showing emissions of greenhouse gases in Scotland over the period 1990 to 2021.
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Scottish Greenhouse Gas Statistics 2021
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.
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Realistic Medicine - Doing the right thing: Chief Medical Officer annual report 2022 to 2023
Chief Medical Officer's (CMO) third annual report, and the seventh on Realistic Medicine. It reflects on the challenges our system is facing and asks professionals to practise Realistic Medicine, in order to deliver value based health and care and a more sustainable system.
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Carbon Neutral Islands project reaches major milestone
Community Climate Action Plans unveiled.
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Circular Economy Bill published
New powers will reduce waste and grow green economy.
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Circular Economy (Scotland) Bill: equality impact assessment
Equality impact assessment (EQIA) examining the possible impacts of the Circular Economy bill provisions.
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Circular Economy Bill: fairer Scotland duty assessment
Fairer Scotland Duty Assessment examining the possible impacts of the Circular Economy bill provisions.
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Circular Economy (Scotland) Bill: business and regulatory impact assessment
Business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) examining the possible impacts of the Circular Economy bill provisions.
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Circular Economy (Scotland) Bill: child rights and wellbeing impact assessment
Child rights and wellbeing impact assessment (CRWIA) examining the possible impacts of the Circular Economy bill provisions.
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Circular Economy Bill: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment examining the possible impacts of the Circular Economy bill provisions.
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Community Climate Action Hubs: response analysis
Scottish Government received 70 responses from third sector and community groups in response to the Climate Action Hub programme announced in 2020. Two pathfinder hubs were identified and the information was used to shape the programme.
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New Build Heat Standard: consultation - part two analysis
The New Build Heating Standard (NBHS) consultation: Part II was an opportunity for the Scottish Government to understand a wide variety of stakeholders’ views on a number of specific proposals. This independent analysis presents a report on these views both quantitively and qualitatively.
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New Build Heat Standard 2024: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment (ICIA) owing to the proposals in the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS) with the move toward zero direct emissions heating systems as a standard in all new buildings. Assessing the particular realities of island communities.
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New Build Heat Standard 2024: equality impact assessment
Equality impact assessment (EQIA) considering the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS) proposals and implications of moving away from direct emissions heating systems in new buildings. Considering in detail the impacts and potential for increasing equality as a result of introducing these regulations.
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New Build Heat Standard 2024: business and regulatory impact assessment
Business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) in consideration of the introduction of the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS). Looking in detail at the economic impacts of moving to Zero Direct Emissions heating systems in all new buildings.
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New Build Heat Standard 2024: fairer Scotland duty assessment
Fairer Scotland duty assessment for the New Build Heat Standard looking into the socio-economic impact of moving forward with zero direct emissions heating systems in all new buildings and in helping reduce inequalities in Scotland.
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New Build Heat Standard 2024: children’s rights and wellbeing impact assessment
Children’s rights and wellbeing impact assessment (CRWIA) in consideration of the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS). Looking at the implications of moving away from Direct Emissions Heating Systems in new buildings with particular regard for children and young people.
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Planning for water scarcity
Call for responsible water use as resilience room meets.
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Climate change monitoring report 2023
The second annual statutory monitoring report against the updated 2018 Climate Change Plan, as per the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019.
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Climate change adaptation programme: progress report 2023
Fourth annual progress report on "Climate Ready Scotland: Scotland’s Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019 to 2024".
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Heat networks: Building Assessment Report (BAR) guidance
Statutory guidance on building assessment reports (BAR) to support the owners of non-domestic buildings to discharge their duty in relation to assessing their building’s potential to connect to a heat network. They should be read alongside the HNZ and Building Assessment Reports (Scotland) Regulations 2023.
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Heat Network Zone (HNZ) guidance
Statutory guidance to support local authorities to discharge their duties in relation to review, and possible designation, of Heat Network Zones. The guidance should be read alongside the Heat Network Zones and Building Assessment Reports (Scotland) Regulations 2023.
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Nitrogen use efficiency in Scotland: annual report 2023
First annual report under section 5(1)(c) of the Climate Change (Nitrogen Balance Sheet) (Scotland) Regulations 2022, and complements the latest published version of the Nitrogen Balance Sheet for the year 2020.
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Investing in green hydrogen
Funding to support just energy transition.
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Research helping to cut emissions and create jobs
Rural research worth millions to Scotland.
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Changes to deposit return scheme
Small businesses to benefit.
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Donating medical equipment: report
This report by the Chief Medical Officer reviews the standards required for medical equipment donations to low- and middle-income countries. It includes a 10 step guide to the donation journey and links to key guidance.
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Equality, opportunity, community: New leadership - A fresh start
This publication sets out the First Minister’s vision for Scotland and the outcomes he and his government aim to achieve by 2026.
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Delivering Scotland's Circular Economy - route map to 2025 and beyond: consultation analysis
Analysis of responses to the 2022 consultation on Delivering Scotland's Circular Economy: Route map to 2025 and Beyond.
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Floating solar panels ready in first for Scotland
Array tested before deployment this year.
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Financing a just transition
New support to increase investment across the North East.
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Climate Change Act – Section 72: thirteenth annual report
Information and conclusions fulfilling our annual reporting requirements on the operation of Section 3F of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (introduced by Section 72 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009).
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Environment Strategy for Scotland: second progress report
The second annual report to Parliament on progress in developing the Environment Strategy for Scotland, as required under the UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Act 2021.
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National events strategy review: business and regulatory impact assessment - partial
Partial business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) for the consultation to help shape the review of Scotland's national events strategy.
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Scotland’s Carbon Footprint: 1998-2019
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.
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Climate loss and damage: practical action
The report is a synthesis of different views and analyses of practical action for addressing climate loss and damage. It considers mobilising and innovative finance, assessing needs and delivering actions.
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Funding local climate action
Climate Action Hubs will put communities at the heart of net zero.
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Energy system and Just Transition: independent analysis
Publication of the outputs from a programme of work to better understand our energy requirements as we transition to net zero.
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Making the NHS more environmentally friendly
Anaesthetic gas removed from theatres.
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Drinks producers urged to register for deposit return scheme
First Minister calls on businesses to sign up.
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Scottish Budget Bill passed
Further support for councils, culture sector and island ferries.
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A social contract with Scotland
Final stage of 2023-24 Budget Bill.
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Ending the sale of peat in Scotland
Phasing out use of peat to protect the environment.
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Funding to help nature projects grow
Supporting and scaling up responsible investment in nature.
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Reducing emissions from agriculture – the role of new farm technologies
This research identified and evaluated technologies which could offer carbon savings in Scottish agriculture which are not currently in use but could be brought to market within 20 years. A shortlist of technologies were explored in greater detail to identify candidates for accelerated development.
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Reducing emissions from waste
Keeping plastic out of incinerators will help meet climate targets.
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Decarbonisation of residual waste infrastructure: report
Second report and supporting documents from the Independent Review of the Role of Incineration in the Waste Hierarchy in Scotland (Stop, Sort, Burn, Bury?), on decarbonisation of residual waste infrastructure in Scotland.
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Investing in recycling
£21m to modernise collections in Glasgow.
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Green Freeports
Winning bids announced.
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Delivering a fair and secure zero carbon energy system
Strategy to deliver a just transition for the energy sector published.
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Clean energy transition to be accelerated
Energy strategy to shape next 25 years of energy production.
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Supporting a renewables revolution
Commitment to develop onshore wind generation confirmed.
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Hydrogen action plan
Actions that will be taken over the next five years to support the development of a hydrogen economy to further our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Scotland 's energy system while ensuring a just transition.
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A nature positive Scotland
Scotland’s strategy to tackle the nature emergency.
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Enhanced support to make homes warmer and greener
New offer to make climate-friendly energy improvements simpler.
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Attracting Investment for a net zero future
Developing policy with green investors in mind.
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Wellbeing economy toolkit for local authorities
Roadmap to fair, green prosperity for communities and regions.
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Strengthening the role of women in climate action
Funding to ensure women from Global South have say on climate.
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Scotland leads global action for nature.
Environment Minister welcomes international support for Edinburgh Declaration.
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Scotland to push energy, nature and justice at COP27
Energy security relies on shifting from fossil fuels, says Environment Minister.
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Building a green heat industry
£17.6 million to support climate-friendly heating transformation.
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Planning for net zero
A plan for future developments will help combat climate change.
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Funding pledge for loss and damage
FM confirms another £5 million at COP27 and urges countries to follow suit.
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COP27 begins
First Minister calls on leaders to build on Glasgow promise.
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Young people to have their say at COP27
Youth Negotiator Programme will help give global youth a voice at climate talks
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Storm Arwen review
New processes in place one year on.
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Accelerating green heat delivery
Next steps taken to help transformation.
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Accelerating action to tackle nature and climate crises
More funding to support biodiversity projects.
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Supporting a green energy revolution
Just Transition Fund awards announced.
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School pupils lead the journey to net zero
First Minister addresses Climate Action Week National School Assembly.
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Agri sector leads the way in sustainability with audit demand
Specialist advice available for farming sector.
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Transforming heating in homes
Zero direct emission plans for all new buildings.
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Investing in net zero energy
£10 million to accelerate hydrogen technology.
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Transformative change to protect Scotland’s nature
Ambitious proposals to halt biodiversity loss.
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Putting limits on incineration capacity
Response to independent review published.
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Building a net zero future
New measures to slash carbon emissions from housing stock.
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Tackling the unavoidable effects of climate change
Scotland keeps up momentum to address loss and damage.
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Financing the just transition to net zero
Tackling climate crisis prioritised in future spending plans.
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Single use plastics ban
Scotland becomes first UK nation to ban problematic plastics.
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Consultations on Circular Economy launched
New measures will help cut waste and preserve precious resources.
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Supporting Scotland’s Just Transition
Just Transition Fund to open on 31 May.
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Carbon Neutral Islands named
Six islands to become carbon neutral by 2040.
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Public bodies’ emissions reduce
£100 million to cut carbon footprint further.
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Renewed focus needed on climate emergency
Energy security drive must align with climate goals
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Transforming derelict land
Grants awarded from £50 million fund.
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Incineration review published
Independent report recommends limit on future incineration capacity.
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Climate change affecting Scotland’s lochs and reservoirs
New research shows water is warming rapidly.
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Supporting unions with just transition
Funding will support worker engagement.
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£5 million to develop carbon dioxide utilisation technology
CO2 Utilisation Challenge Fund launched.
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Action on packaging
Producers will pay for the environmental costs of packaging.
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Green Freeports prospectus published
Applicants must meet fair work and net zero ambitions.
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Scotland’s Carbon Footprint: 1998-2018
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland
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Upskilling to address climate change
Fund opens to applications.
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£300m boost for climate friendly heating
Transforming Scotland’s heating systems.
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Scottish Household Survey – 2020 telephone survey
Experimental Statistics: Data being developed.
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Funding for sustainable islands
Additional funding allocated to local island projects.
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Slashing carbon emissions across Scotland
£8.7 million for green infrastructure projects.
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Scottish Cluster support
Investment in carbon capture project announced.
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Wild Salmon Strategy Launch
Move to bring salmon population back from crisis point.
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Promoting low carbon farming and protecting the environment
Agri-Environment Climate Change Scheme awards.
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Sharing knowledge and innovation to tackle climate change
Projects awarded funding in most recent round of Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund.
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Big ambitions for Wee Forests
Connecting people and nature.
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Citizens steer net zero journey
Response to Climate Assembly recommendations published.
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Ensuring a fair journey to net zero
Experts appointed to support Just Transition mission.
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Scotland’s deposit return scheme
Recycling scheme will go live in 2023.
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Creating a cleaner Scotland
Views sought on new litter and fly-tipping strategy.
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Supporting a greener Scotland
Record funding to deliver a just transition to net zero.
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Committing to a greener, fairer future
New measures announced for a just transition to Net Zero.
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Showcasing agricultural climate action
Peer to peer network to launch.
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Towards a circular economy
Taking action to reduce waste and its impact.
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First Minister comments on Glasgow Climate Pact
COP26 summit concludes.
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Reducing agricultural emissions
Improved controls on the storage and application of slurry and digestate.
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Network of sharing libraries and repair cafes
Funding to deliver key recommendation of Scotland’s Climate Assembly.
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Supporting women in climate action and conflict resolution
Funding for new fellowship programme.
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Action on single-use plastic
Scotland first UK nation to pursue ban on some of the most problematic products.
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Protecting the rights of young people
Scotland signs up to UNICEF declaration on children, youth and climate action.
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Blue Carbon International Policy Challenge
International collaborations to support our seas and oceans.
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Scotland to boost climate funding
First Minister calls on leaders to step up and secure successful outcome.
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Planning to reach net zero
Creating more town centre homes and local services to help fight climate change.
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Response to COP26 draft agreement
First Minister urges leaders to go further.
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Celebrating Gender Day at COP26
Pledge on climate change and inequalities.
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Climate justice essential at COP26
First Minister says Global South voices must be heard.
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Empowering communities on climate action
Towns chosen to help drive just transition to net zero.
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First Minister rallies delegates to climate challenge
Under2 Coalition members to sign Net Zero pledge.
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Expanded funding to restore and protect nature
£55 million for nature restoration and biodiversity projects.
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First Minister meets global environmental experts at COP26
New report advises Scottish Government on environment priorities.
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Free bus travel for under 22s
61% of young people say public transport central to combatting climate emergency.
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California signs Scotland’s world-leading nature declaration
Governments and cities encouraged to take action for nature at COP26.
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First Minister meets young activists during COP26
'Voice of young people must be heard', says FM.
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First Minister: Scotland to show leadership on Climate Justice
Investment to tackle “loss and damage” from climate change.
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Ramping up renewables generation
Plans to increase onshore wind capacity published ahead of COP26.
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Creating a fairer, greener nation
Rural funding scheme extended.
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Unlimited recovery of hydrocarbons not sustainable
Work to be undertaken to support a just transition for Scotland’s energy sector.
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Glasgow must bridge climate divide
First Minister to set out ambition for COP26.
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Scotland to push for success at COP26
Ministers to drive global climate action with distinctive Scottish programme.
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Letters sent to legal sector ahead of COP26
Contact underlines close engagement between Scottish Government and legal bodies.
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Events line-up to enrich climate conference
A series of innovative cultural events are to be staged to mark COP26.
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Involving young people in COP26
Opportunities to meet world leaders and climate activists.
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Creating resilient and sustainable islands
Funding allocated to local island projects.
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FM calls for global climate action at TED
Smaller countries’ actions crucial to tackling climate emergency.
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Fast-tracking net zero infrastructure
Green growth pathfinder projects announced.
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Making our homes cleaner and greener
Scotland’s heat in buildings strategy published.
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Scotland putting rail decarbonisation at heart of net zero plans.
First Minister marks completion of Queen Street Station redevelopment
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Global climate justice
Global south priorities for COP26 set out at Glasgow climate talks.
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Climate justice
Doubling climate fund to help world’s most vulnerable nations
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Conserving wild salmon
More than £500,000 to study the pressures faced from pollution and climate change.
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Making Just Transition a defining mission
New Commission to be established to support net zero transformation.
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COP26 youth conference
Scotland to host United Nations Conference of Youth.
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Building a COP26 legacy
Climate Week to put people at the heart of net zero journey.
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COP26
Communities across Scotland to take part in climate action.
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A Fairer, Greener Scotland
Programme for Government 2021-22.
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Zero Carbon Islands
Islands contributing to net zero commitment.
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New Ministers to be appointed
Scottish Greens to enter government.
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Agreement reached with Scottish Green Party
Cooperation confirmed.
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FM calls for collective leadership on a just transition for energy
Letter urges PM to reassess oil and gas licencing plans.
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Investing in net-zero technology
£16.5 million to support energy transformation.
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100 Days until COP26
Scotland makes international pledge to help deliver the Paris Agreement
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Increased funding to tackle fuel poverty and climate change
£64 million for local heat and energy efficiency projects
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National Islands Plan Survey: final report
This report presents the findings from the National Islands Plan Survey. The research explores perceptions of island life in relation to the strategic objectives set out in the National Islands Plan.
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Young Scots have their say on COP26
Applications for new youth climate programme opened.
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Supporting climate justice across the globe
Funding for international projects ahead of COP26.
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Sustainable and integrated farming and crofting activity in the hills and uplands of Scotland: blueprint - report
Report from the Hill, Upland and Crofting Climate Change Group, one of the farmer-led groups established to develop advice and proposals for the Scottish Government. It focusses on how to cut emissions and tackle climate change, something that was re-emphasised in the updated Climate Change Plan.
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Pig sector - reducing greenhouse gas emissions: bringing home the bacon - report
Report from the Scottish Pig Industry Leadership Group, one of the farmer-led groups established to develop advice and proposals for the Scottish Government. It focusses on how to cut emissions and tackle climate change, something that was re-emphasised in the updated Climate Change Plan.
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Accelerating green growth
Initiative to unlock £200m of low carbon investment launched.
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Strengthening links with Europe
£3 million research fund announced.
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Funding to restore Scotland’s iconic peatlands
£22 million this year towards meeting climate change targets.
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Climate campaign launches
‘Let’s do Net Zero’ calls for collective action to help hit net zero.
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Peatland restoration fund tackles global climate crisis
Single year and multi-year projects now eligible to apply to a £22 million peatland restoration programme.
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FM: COP26 is our best chance to address climate change
Scotland will lead by example with commitment to net-zero.
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Driving progress to a net-zero future
Hydrogen bus investment announced.
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New measures to accelerate greener, cheaper heating
Heat Networks (Scotland) Bill passed.
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Reaching net zero
Vision to transform heating in Scotland’s buildings published.
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Scotland’s Carbon Footprint: 1998-2017
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland
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Budget to support net-zero transformation
Record funding to deliver Scotland’s green recovery.
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Increase to carrier bag charge
Help combat plastic waste.
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Delivering Scotland’s green recovery
More than £3.2 million to help communities drive climate action.
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Action to tackle climate change
Measures to stop non-biodegradable waste heading to landfill.
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Improving sustainability through innovation
Tackling climate change in farming and food production.
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Scottish Government Hydrogen Policy Statement
We set out our vision for Scotland to become a leading hydrogen nation in the production of reliable, competitive, sustainable hydrogen, securing Scotland’s future as a centre of international excellence as we establish the innovation, skills and and supply chain to underpin our energy transition.
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Deep decarbonisation pathways for Scottish industries: research report
The following report is a research piece outlining the potential pathways for decarbonisation of Scottish Industries. Two main pathways are considered, hydrogen and electrification, with both resulting in similar costs and levels of carbon reduction.
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Climate Change Plan 2018-2032 - update: strategic environmental assessment - draft
Draft strategic environmental assessment of the update to the Climate Change Plan 2018 to 2032. The appendices are available as a supporting file on this page.
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Securing a green recovery on a path to net zero: climate change plan 2018–2032 - update
This update to Scotland's 2018-2032 Climate Change Plan sets out the Scottish Government's pathway to our new and ambitious targets set by the Climate Change Act 2019. It is a key strategic document on our green recovery from COVID-19.
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30% of Scotland’s land to be protected for nature
Next steps on tackling biodiversity loss published.
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Scottish biodiversity strategy post-2020: statement of intent
Sets the direction for a new biodiversity strategy which will respond to the increased urgency for action to tackle the twin challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change.
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UK Government urged to match climate ambition with action
Climate Change Secretary sets out key asks ahead of Climate Ambition Summit.
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Helping industry cut emissions
Scottish Industrial Energy Transformation Fund opens.
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Contributing to the Paris Agreement
Scotland to publish an indicative Nationally Determined Contribution ahead of Glasgow COP26.
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Farmer-led groups to tackle climate change
More sustainable farming and food production.
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Combating biodiversity loss
New Centre of Expertise in Biodiversity announced.
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Increased offshore wind ambition by 2030
Supporting Scotland’s green recovery.
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Tackling single-use plastic
Consultation launched on banning common single-use plastic items.
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Scotland’s Green Recovery
£3.5 million to help deliver climate-friendly projects.
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Driving international climate action
Scotland assumes European role ahead of critical COP26 talks.
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Recycle Week 2020
People encouraged to continue recycling to help the environment.
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Ending Scotland's throwaway culture
Experts advise on replacing single-use items.
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Building resilience for island communities
£2 million for locally-led green recovery.
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Scotland's Climate Assembly: operations and administration arrangements
Details on the Assembly's independence and governance, resources, member recruitment, meetings, evidence base, engagement, principles and reporting arrangements.
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Scotland’s green recovery
Funding for a just transition to net-zero.
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International declaration agreed
Calls for global biodiversity action at all levels.
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Scottish Greenhouse Gas Emissions 2018
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.
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£62 million fund for energy sector
Support package to help deliver net zero future.
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Climate Change Plan update
Publication to be delayed due to coronavirus outbreak.
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COP26 update
Need for partnership working.
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Protecting Scotland’s environment
Environment strategy published.
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New beef sector climate group
Moving to a low-carbon future.
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Scottish Budget 2020-21
Tackling the climate emergency and protecting public services.
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Delivering a green budget
Scottish Budget prioritising the climate emergency.
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The Big Climate Conversation
Public share opinions on transitioning to net-zero.
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Climate Change Plan
Working group to support ambitious new emissions targets.
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Tackling climate crisis through artificial intelligence
Funding to support innovation.
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Offshore wind summit
Steps to ensure contracts stay in Scotland.
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More people are environmentally conscious
20 years of the Scottish Household Survey.
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Scotland’s recycling summit
Talks to accelerate action on waste.
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Global pledge on climate crisis
Transport charter signed at COP25 summit.
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Madrid COP25 climate summit
Working together to tackle climate change.
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Scotland’s base for climate summit
Glasgow Science Centre to host COP26 events.
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Sending computers to Africa
Education initiatives benefit from used Scottish Government equipment.
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Safeguarding environmental standards
Advisory body plan for ‘no deal’ Brexit.
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Rates relief for retailers
First Minister announces support for shops tackling throwaway culture.
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£27m funding for active travel
First Minister – Scotland acting locally as we lead globally on climate change.
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Green investment programme opens
Support for projects tackling climate emergency.
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Scotland's Climate Week 2019
Taking action to become a net-zero society.
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Building a zero carbon future
Climate change top of the agenda for new planning system.
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Scotland to become a net-zero society
New legislation will demonstrate global leadership.
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Climate change adaptation
Improving protection against climate extremes.
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Committing to zero emissions
Proposals put public sector at the forefront of climate change fight.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland
Independent review on air quality published.
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Tackling climate change
Additional £11 million for peatland restoration.
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The Big Climate Conversation
Public engagement events to tackle climate emergency.
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Deposit Return Scheme
Ambitious scheme design takes shape.
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Reaching net zero
Call for immediate action on greenhouse gases.
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Climate Change action
Scotland will go greener, faster with world-leading targets.
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Climate Challenge Fund
Embracing a carbon-neutral society
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Powering Past Coal Alliance
Scottish Government joins clean power group.
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Scotland’s Carbon Footprint: 1998-2015
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.
-
Transitioning to carbon neutrality
Remit and initial Commission members announced.
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Innovative solutions to protect environment
New partnership and funding.
-
UN climate change conference
Funding for global climate action.
-
Blue Carbon forum launched
Exploring the marine environment’s capacity to solve carbon problem.
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Tackling climate change
£600k fund for projects in Malawi and Zambia.
-
Turning the tide on marine plastics
Doubling of funding.
-
Fighting coastline pollution
£100,000 for beach clean-ups.
-
Leading the way to a low-carbon future
Just Transition Commission to advise on decarbonisation.
-
Tackling climate change
New fund to help communities in Malawi respond to effects of global warming.
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Strong progress on climate change
Greenhouse gas emissions reduced by nearly half.
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Scottish Greenhouse Gas Emissions
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.
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Commitment to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions
New legislation set to be ‘toughest in the world’.
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2050 Climate Group Youth Summit
Malawi partnership announced.
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Climate Challenge Fund
More than 1,000 community projects have helped cut carbon emissions.
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Climate Change Plan: third report on proposals and policies 2018-2032 (RPP3)
This plan sets out the path to a low carbon economy while helping to deliver sustainable economic growth and secure the wider benefits to a greener, fairer and healthier Scotland in 2032.