Draft Environment Strategy: consultation analysis

4. Positive transformations in our society and economy to support the Strategy

This chapter presents the analysis of responses to four questions about two outcomes that describe the positive transformations in Scotland’s society and economy. It is intended that these outcomes will support the draft Strategy’s goals while creating wider benefits for Scotland’s prosperity and wellbeing. Q7 and Q8 focus on the outcome: “Scotland’s society is transformed for the better by living sustainably, in harmony with nature”. Q9 and Q10 focus on the outcome: “Scotland’s net zero, nature positive and circular economy thrives within the planet’s sustainable limits.”

Scotland’s society is transformed for the better by living sustainably, in harmony with nature

Q7. To what extent do you agree/disagree that societal changes, including in our lifestyles and behaviours, are needed to help tackle the nature, climate and pollution crises?

If you agree, please explain in the text box below how you think the Scottish Government could most effectively support and enable these changes in ways that also help to improve people’s lives and tackle inequalities.

Or, if you disagree, please explain in the text box below why you don’t think that societal changes, including in our lifestyles and behaviours, are needed to help tackle the nature, climate and pollution crises.

Almost all those answering Q7 agreed that societal changes, including in our lifestyles and behaviours, are needed to help tackle the nature, climate and pollution crises. A total of 94% agreed, comprising 71% who ‘strongly agree’ and 23% who ‘agree’. A further 4% were neutral, and 1% disagreed. Almost all individuals (95%) indicated they ‘strongly agree’, and while a total of 95% of organisations agreed, 64% indicated they ‘strongly agree’. At least half of most organisation types ‘strongly agree’, except for industry associations/umbrella bodies – 28% of this group ‘strongly agree’, and 61% ‘agree’.

Ninety-seven respondents provided open comments to explain their answers to the closed question. In line with the closed question results, most respondents agreed that societal and behavioural change is essential to address the nature, climate and pollution crises. Themes raised by respondents included infrastructure and transport, engagement and education, governance, consumption and supply, fairness and inclusion, housing, and green infrastructure and land management.

Infrastructure and Transport

The most frequently raised theme was infrastructure, with many respondents emphasising the importance of planning, transport systems, and investment in public transport and active travel to facilitate lifestyle and behavioural change. Many respondents felt that individuals can only make sustainable choices if these are supported by accessible, reliable and affordable infrastructure. Several of these respondents suggested that changes to infrastructure, rather than individual actions alone, would be key to tackling the nature, climate and pollution crises. They emphasised that low-carbon options must become the default and most convenient choice.

Planning

Several respondents referred to the 20-minute neighbourhood model, which is embedded in Scotland’s National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4). They viewed this model as a positive means of linking local living, wellbeing and biodiversity outcomes through access to green spaces, sustainable transport and digital connectivity. However, some respondents felt that its potential was not yet being realised and that the concept risked being undermined by inconsistent implementation.

Some respondents noted that while climate and nature are recognised in planning policy, they are not consistently delivered on the ground, describing this as a missed opportunity. They highlighted the role of the Environment Strategy in strengthening implementation and aligning planning decisions with wider environmental and social goals. A few respondents emphasised that embedding sustainability in place-making would make walking, cycling and access to nature straightforward and attractive, thereby encouraging long-term shifts towards healthier, low-carbon lifestyles.

Public transport

Several respondents identified affordable, reliable and accessible public transport as central to enabling behavioural change. They called for investment in bus and rail networks, safe walking and cycling routes, and affordable travel options, linking these to both climate outcomes and social inclusion. While some welcomed recent measures, such as free bus travel for under-22s and removal of peak rail fares, a few others felt that more consistent investment and national coordination were required. Examples such as the Strathclyde Regional Bus Strategy were cited as positive local initiatives that could help reverse declines in public transport use.

A few respondents proposed fare reductions or means-tested ticketing to support affordability. One respondent cited France’s ban on short-haul domestic flights as an example of bold policy action that could reduce emissions, suggesting similar measures could be considered in Scotland. One respondent also noted that meeting Scotland’s target of a 20 per cent reduction in car kilometres by 2030 would require a significant increase in public transport capacity, referencing Transport Scotland data estimating that capacity would need to grow by over 200 per cent. Other respondents expressed concern that current provision and funding levels were insufficient to achieve this shift.

Active travel

Many respondents supported greater investment in walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure. They viewed active travel as essential to encouraging healthier, lower-emission lifestyles, and emphasised that it should sit at the heart of government transport policy. Several respondents raised concerns that too much emphasis was being placed on electric vehicles (EVs) at the expense of active and public transport. They noted that while EVs reduce tailpipe emissions, they do not address congestion, embodied carbon or health outcomes. A few respondents highlighted the importance of national behaviour-change campaigns to promote sustainable travel choices and to build public trust that alternatives to private car use are safe, convenient and affordable. One respondent provided a personal example of using a car-sharing scheme as an alternative to car ownership, describing it as an effective way to encourage reduced car dependency.

Rural infrastructure

Many respondents frequently emphasised that infrastructure changes must consider the unique contexts of rural and island areas. Many respondents noted that people living in these areas often face limited transport options, poor digital connectivity and insufficient access to charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. Some respondents suggested investment in rural transport links, safe cycling connections between villages, and community mobility hubs with facilities such as e-bike hire and EV charging. A few called for investment in rural broadband and local food networks to ensure that rural communities are not disadvantaged.

A few respondents noted that electric vehicles may be less suitable for rural working environments due to their limited towing capabilities and range, highlighting the need for alternative low-carbon fuels and suitable infrastructure.

Engagement and education

The second most prevalent theme was engagement and education. Respondents viewed communication, awareness-raising and learning as essential tools for enabling societal change and motivating participation.

Communication and public engagement

Many respondents called for stronger, science-based communication to help the public understand the benefits of sustainable lifestyles and the practical steps involved. They felt that messaging should emphasise positive outcomes, such as health, wellbeing and affordability, rather than sacrifice or restriction. Several respondents highlighted the importance of national campaigns that celebrate the benefits of active travel, energy-efficient homes, healthy diets, and access to green spaces. A few noted that consistent communication and phased implementation, as seen in the smoking ban or plastic bag charge, can successfully shift public behaviour. These respondents emphasised the importance of addressing misinformation and highlighting “good news stories” about Scotland’s environmental progress to maintain optimism and trust. A few called for greater collaboration with retailers and private-sector organisations to promote sustainable products and make environmentally responsible choices easier for consumers. Citizen science was mentioned by some as an effective way to involve people directly, helping them see the results of their actions and connect with their local environment.

Education and lifelong learning

Many respondents identified education as central to long-term behaviour change. They suggested strengthening sustainability education across schools and lifelong learning, with opportunities for both practical engagement and green career development. Several respondents proposed investment in nature-based education programmes that build environmental awareness and stewardship. Examples such as the Scottish Science Centre Network and regional science festivals were cited as effective outreach channels for engaging diverse and rural audiences. Adult learning and reskilling were also viewed as important, particularly in supporting workers to transition into low-carbon sectors. These respondents referenced existing initiatives by the Open University and Keep Scotland Beautiful as positive models for education and training beyond formal schooling.

Culture and connection with nature

A few respondents highlighted the role of arts, culture and the historic environment in inspiring engagement and shaping social norms. They felt that creative and cultural organisations could help people imagine sustainable futures and foster an emotional connection to nature. These respondents also stressed that equitable access to nature, through blue-green infrastructure, outdoor learning and community spaces, can promote wellbeing and sustainable behaviour. Embedding nature into schools, healthcare settings and urban design was viewed as a means of strengthening people’s connection to their environment and normalising sustainable lifestyles. Some attendees of the health and environment consultation workshops highlighted the benefits of green spaces, calling them “anchor institutions” and suggested access should be a priority, particularly in urban areas, “which can be nature poor”.

Governance

Governance was another recurring theme. Several respondents discussed how decision-making, policy direction, and implementation could better support behavioural change, highlighting the roles of local authorities, communities, and the national government.

Local governance and participation

Many respondents called for greater local empowerment, including shifts in planning priorities and devolution of decision-making and financial powers. They expressed the view that collaboration between local authorities, land managers and voluntary groups could help tailor actions to local needs. Several respondents emphasised the importance of co-production with communities in biodiversity, climate and behaviour-change projects. A few respondents also referred to the value of local organisations such as Climate Action Hubs in linking national programmes to community delivery.

National policy and legislation

Several respondents suggested that national frameworks must provide the right incentives and standards to complement local delivery. Suggestions included mandatory environmental management systems for businesses, taxation of non-recyclable products, incentives for refill and reuse, and nationally standardised recycling systems. Several respondents argued that voluntary behaviour change alone would be too slow, citing campaigns on single-use plastics as examples of where legislation had proven more effective. A few called for clearer national guidance to ensure equitable investment and consistent approaches across regions.

Monitoring and evidence

A few respondents emphasised the need for robust monitoring and evaluation, including tracking pollution and environmental trends. Some highlighted the value of citizen science in complementing formal data collection and strengthening the evidence base.

Consumption and supply

Many respondents discussed consumption and production systems, particularly food and material use, as central to achieving sustainable lifestyles.

Food systems

Many respondents noted that food has significant impacts on health, the environment and inequality. Many supported measures to encourage affordable, healthy and sustainable diets, including plant-rich and locally sourced foods. Several respondents suggested that supermarkets and supply chains shape dietary habits and that interventions, such as limiting the promotion of ultra-processed foods, supporting cooking education, and using procurement to model sustainable catering, could help shift consumption patterns. A few respondents expressed concern that reducing red-meat consumption was being oversimplified, arguing instead for support of local, low-impact livestock systems alongside reduced imports and ultra-processed foods.

Circular economy and wider consumption

Several respondents discussed the importance of circular economy measures that promote reuse, repair, and recycling. Examples included tackling e-waste through improved collection systems, enhancing consumer confidence, and providing data security assurances. Two respondents mentioned responsible disposal of medicines and tobacco products to reduce pollution. These respondents also noted that consumption is influenced by advertising and corporate interests. Some called for regulation of unsustainable marketing practices, particularly those targeting children. Some attendees of the health consultation workshop highlighted that reducing the use of medicine would help reduce climate impact and have multiple other benefits, such as NHS savings. Some attendees of the economy consultation workshop suggested reducing the use of chemicals and highlighted the potential health impacts of chemical use.

Affordability and accessibility

Many respondents linked sustainable consumption to affordability. They cautioned that sustainable options must be accessible and cost-effective, particularly for low-income households, and that regulatory barriers, such as restrictions on retrofitting historic buildings, should not deter participation. Some attendees of the equality and health consultation workshops raised concerns about equitable access to nature and a healthy environment, the benefits and opportunities of the draft Strategy, and climate change mitigation actions such as renewable energy.

Fairness, Inclusion and Just Transition

A further theme was fairness and inclusion, with several respondents stressing that societal change must be pursued in ways that are equitable, inclusive and grounded in wellbeing.

These respondents agreed that those least able to adapt should not bear disproportionate costs and that targeted support should ensure everyone can access sustainable options. Many called for policies to test their impacts on inequalities and for sustainable choices to be framed as opportunities to improve quality of life. Several respondents highlighted equitable access to green and blue spaces as a public health and social justice priority. A few called for culturally sensitive engagement approaches and for community-led initiatives to be at the centre of delivery. Some respondents linked fairness to broader structural change, including wealth redistribution, land reform and national ownership of key resources. They viewed such measures as necessary to enable fair participation and ensure that the benefits of the transition are widely shared.

Housing

Housing was identified as another key enabler of sustainable lifestyles. Several respondents agreed that public-sector-led interventions in housing and circular construction could create a “virtuous circle” of environmental and social benefits. These respondents called for expanded support for home energy efficiency and clean-heating upgrades, especially for households vulnerable to fuel poverty. They also emphasised the need to modernise building and planning standards to reflect current climate science and to integrate nature and adaptation by default. Several respondents urged that retrofit programmes prioritise lower-income and lower-value homes and provide accessible funding for all tenures. Some respondents also highlighted opportunities to link retrofit and housing programmes to skills development and local employment.

A few respondents raised concerns about barriers to creating nature-rich towns and cities, including land ownership patterns, land banking, and lobbying that can weaken building standards. They called for clearer governance, transparency and community involvement in planning. Some attendees at the environment workshop highlighted the need to create housing where there is public transport, rather than creating “two-car households”.

Green infrastructure and land management

Respondents also described the role of green infrastructure and land management in supporting lifestyle change and wellbeing.

Many highlighted the importance of long-term stewardship of green and natural spaces beyond short-term project funding, noting that sustained investment can deliver multiple benefits, including climate resilience, biodiversity enhancement and improved quality of life. Some respondents emphasised that agri-environment schemes should be straightforward, equitable, and adequately funded to support farmers and land managers in achieving meaningful nature and climate outcomes A few suggested small-grant schemes for “micro-rewilding” projects in parks or community spaces to foster wider participation. Several respondents linked investment in green infrastructure to community capacity-building, recommending support for local initiatives, nature-based education and intermediary organisations that can connect national policy with local action. Some attendees of the health consultation workshop suggested that blue and green infrastructure can deliver numerous benefits for public authorities, including reducing health inequalities, and that targeted support would be beneficial.

Q8. Do you have any further views on how the pathway outlined in the draft Strategy can help achieve the outcome “Scotland’s society is transformed for the better by living sustainably, in harmony with nature”?

Additional comments in response to Q8 were provided by 78 respondents. Many of the themes evident in these comments covered the same points as raised in Q7, and have therefore been incorporated into the analysis above. However, additional themes, including public health and links to other policies, are outlined below.

Public health and inequality

The link between sustainability, health and equality was a prevalent theme in comments at Q8. Several respondents agreed that the draft Strategy’s focus on co-benefits for health and wellbeing strengthens its capacity to inspire public support and deliver inclusive change.

A few respondents welcomed the recognition that environmental and health goals are mutually reinforcing. They saw opportunities for the draft Strategy to promote active travel, energy-efficient homes, and access to nature as ways to improve population health, reduce healthcare costs and support resilient communities. Many endorsed the emphasis on nature-based health interventions and the creation of nature-rich places, noting that such approaches are particularly valuable in deprived or nature-poor areas where wellbeing benefits are greatest.

Links to other policies

The final theme evident in comments focused on aligning the Strategy with related policy frameworks and recognising the role of land management in delivery.

Policy coherence and integration

Some respondents welcomed the draft Strategy’s ambition to serve as an overarching framework but emphasised that success depends on effective coordination with policies on climate, planning, biodiversity, food, health and the economy. They highlighted the need to avoid conflicting requirements and to ensure that local implementation reflects national intent. Some noted that while frameworks such as NPF4 contain strong climate and nature objectives, these are not always delivered consistently. A few warned that cumulative regulatory costs could fall unevenly on households or businesses if integration is not managed carefully.

Land management and rural delivery

Some respondents underlined the central role of farmers, crofters and other land managers in achieving sustainable living. They stressed the importance of partnership approaches, fair funding and recognition of the public benefits already delivered through traditional farming systems. Some respondents called for policy frameworks that balance biodiversity restoration with food production, providing clarity on expectations and supporting rural livelihoods. They also proposed greater community involvement in land use decisions through local and strategic landscape management plans that reflect distinctive regional conditions.

National and local collaboration

Some respondents emphasised the value of place-based approaches that connect national policy with local action. They cited National Parks, local authorities and community land groups as key delivery partners capable of integrating environmental, social and economic aims. Long-term funding for community land and woodland management was seen as critical to ensure meaningful participation and enduring outcomes. Several respondents also highlighted the role of well-managed public spaces, such as parks and beaches, in supporting biodiversity, recreation and health, and advocated continued investment in national award schemes to recognise excellence in land management.

Broader policy connections

A few respondents reflected on the relationship between environmental goals and Scotland’s broader economic and constitutional context. Some suggested that greater policy autonomy could strengthen coherence and accountability in achieving sustainability objectives. A few highlighted examples from the blue economy and rural industries, such as salmon farming, where environmental and economic objectives can be successfully aligned to deliver inclusive, place-based growth.

Scotland’s net zero, nature positive and circular economy thrives within the planet’s sustainable limits

Q9. To what extent do you agree/disagree that a just transition to a net zero, nature positive, circular economy is needed to support Scotland’s role in tackling the nature, climate and pollution crises?

If you agree, please explain in the text box below how you think the Scottish Government could most effectively support this transition in ways that create wider economic opportunities for Scotland, including for jobs and businesses.

Or, if you disagree, please explain in the text box below why you don’t think a just transition to a net zero, nature positive, circular economy is needed to support Scotland’s role in tackling the nature, climate and pollution crises.

The vast majority of those answering Q9 agreed that a just transition to a net zero, nature positive, circular economy is needed to support Scotland’s role in tackling the nature, climate and pollution crises. A total of 92% agreed, comprising 77% who ‘strongly agree’ and 15% who ‘agree’. A further 5% were neutral, and 1% disagreed. Just over three quarters of both individuals and organisations indicated they ‘strongly agree’ (78% and 77% respectively). At least half of all types of organisation indicated they ‘strongly agree’, ranging from half (50%) of the small number of health bodies and 56% of industry associations/umbrella bodies, to all energy and transport organisations.

Of the 91 respondents who commented at Q9, several themes emerged regarding how the Scottish Government could most effectively support a just transition. The most frequently raised themes related to decision-making, regulation and enforcement, followed by skills and workforce development, identification of opportunities, local supply chains and procurement, and circular economy and waste management.

Decision-making, regulation and enforcement

The most prevalent theme concerned how decision-making and regulation could support a just transition. Many respondents highlighted the importance of integrating social and environmental principles into decision-making processes. These respondents believed that decision-making frameworks, evaluation criteria, and measurement systems should consider broader social and environmental outcomes to ensure that the benefits of the transition are distributed fairly. Several respondents suggested creating an ethical decision-making tool for investment processes, introducing mandatory net zero assessments, and developing a new biodiversity metric within the planning system. Some respondents commenting under this theme consistently agreed that measures of success and evaluation should look beyond traditional economic indicators. Some attendees of the environment consultation workshop highlighted the need to consider existing mechanisms, which they felt need to be normalised to build wider acceptance, including the polluter pays principle and tourism taxes.

Another aspect of this theme related to policy-making processes. Several respondents emphasised the value of engagement and co-design, highlighting the importance of including groups such as workers, trade unions, land managers, communities, faith organisations and civil society bodies in the policy development.

A few respondents discussed governance and coordination, suggesting the need for stronger regional collaboration, partnership working and cross-departmental coordination.

A few commented on existing regulations and their implementation. These included calls for stronger regulation on pollution and biodiversity loss, streamlining of regulation to balance environmental protection with economic viability, and improved regulatory enforcement. One respondent referred specifically to waste regulation, suggesting that its current application by SEPA does not adequately promote a circular economy.

Skills and workforce development

The second most prevalent theme was comments related to skills development, including reskilling, upskilling and job creation. Many respondents were supportive of the overall approach set out in the draft Strategy, noting that it presented opportunities for “green jobs” across multiple sectors. Many respondents highlighted the need to retrain workers in high-emission sectors, including the potential for compensation and retraining packages for those whose jobs may be affected by the transition. A few respondents mentioned the education system, suggesting the promotion of STEM subjects and careers at primary and secondary schools.

In addition to supporting existing workers, several respondents noted the need for skills development to capitalise on emerging opportunities. Sectors most often identified included renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, low-carbon manufacturing, energy efficiency, circular design, sustainable construction, nature and peatland restoration, landscape planning, land management and green finance. A few respondents suggested that additional support would be required for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to enable participation in training and the adoption of sustainable business models.

Rural and island areas were frequently mentioned, with some respondents emphasising the importance of targeted support for rural skills, business development, infrastructure, and investment. Several respondents referred to delivery through Climate Action Hubs, while three cited the Dumfries and Galloway College Net Zero Skills Centre as an example of effective regional training provision. Finally, attendees at the equality consultation workshop highlighted that workforce development must include opportunities and targeted support for those who are underrepresented in these sectors.

Opportunities

Many respondents identified a range of opportunities that they felt could support a Just Transition. Many referred to land management, particularly in the agricultural sector. A few respondents discussed changes to farm payments, such as the gradual reduction or removal of Voluntary Coupled Support, and linking payments to regenerative agriculture. Some respondents commented on land use, noting that certain agricultural land was not viewed as economically or environmentally sustainable, and suggested investment in regenerative practices or alternative crops such as soft fruit.

Many respondents referred to support for the agricultural sector more broadly. Suggestions included ensuring access to land and resources for young farmers, providing higher payment rates for native woodland creation and peatland recovery, removing minimum stocking densities and greening requirements, and offering annual compensation payments to assist with gradual reductions in livestock numbers.

Several respondents highlighted potential opportunities within urban land management, including urban farming, school-based growing projects, and the use of green spaces and roadside verges to enhance biodiversity and access to nature.

Community involvement was also mentioned by several respondents, who emphasised the role of communities in managing sensitive habitats and natural capital projects, suggesting that engagement was particularly important where tenancy or ownership arrangements may be complex. One respondent referred to community-based initiatives, such as venison larders, as opportunities to reinvest in rainforest restoration activities.

Other points raised under this theme included:

• A few respondents suggested introducing legislation to establish both voluntary and mandatory natural-capital schemes.
• A few respondents highlighted that the transition away from peat use in horticulture would need to be managed carefully, noting opportunities to develop peat-free alternative growing media from green and food waste.
• Only one of the two respondents who disagreed with the proposition provided further explanation. One of these respondents expressed concern that increasing land ownership fragmentation and breaking up large estates would create uncertainty, reduce economic viability and make it more challenging to achieve landscape-scale biodiversity objectives.
• Some attendees from the economy workshop stressed the need for a greater commitment to meeting the fair work standard and support for sustainable business models such as social enterprises and community-owned businesses.

Local supply chains and procurement

The next most prevalent theme concerned the development of local supply chains and the use of public procurement as a policy lever. Several respondents noted that public procurement could support supply chains for retrofitting existing infrastructure and sourcing timber for construction. Two respondents commented that procurement and investment could be used to “reward businesses that meet high environmental and social standards,” or to subsidise “sustainable and locally sourced produce”. One respondent, however, raised concerns about timber supply, noting that the United Kingdom is already the second-largest importer of wood products worldwide. They suggested that any short-term increase in timber use in construction could lead to higher imports, questioning the feasibility of establishing a domestic supply chain in the near term.

Circular Economy and waste management

Another recurring theme related to the circular economy, particularly waste reduction and resource management. Several respondents referred to the Circular Economy Act, commenting that it should drive investment in reprocessing and remanufacture and establish clear targets, measurements, plans, milestones and funding routes. Several respondents also highlighted potential opportunities within waste management, including support for zero-waste retail, investment in infrastructure to convert food waste into alternative products such as mineral fertilisers, and development of affordable biotechnologies to transform grass cuttings into products like biochar, biomethane, and compost. Many respondents noted that these developments would depend on investment, business support and systematic changes in the way waste and grasslands are managed across both the public and private sectors.

Other opportunities

Other opportunities identified included investment in public transport and green infrastructure, support for homeowners and renters, investment in renewable energy, and energy-efficiency initiatives such as a National Insulation and Retrofit Company. A few respondents mentioned community ownership of energy resources, public ownership of rail freight, and investment in carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS). One respondent highlighted that Grangemouth represents a concentration of business expertise, skills, jobs, and economic value that could play a key role in delivering a net zero economy for Scotland.

Q10. Do you have any further views on how the pathway outlined in the draft Strategy can help achieve the outcome “Scotland’s net zero, nature positive and circular economy thrives within the planet’s sustainable limits”? Please explain your answer in the text box below.

53 respondents answered this question. Respondents described a range of issues relating to how the pathway could support the stated outcome. The themes most frequently raised were investment, innovation, land management and use, and planning. Other themes included community involvement, measurement and monitoring, skills and workforce development, equality and accessibility, as well as a range of broader or divergent views.

Investment

The most prevalent theme was the need for investment and funding mechanisms. Many respondents emphasised the importance of long-term, stable funding for landscape-scale habitat restoration, including temperate rainforests, peatlands, and species-rich grasslands. Several respondents commented on the need for both public and private investment, with public funds being seen as crucial for leveraging private finance.

Some respondents highlighted Scotland’s natural capital frameworks, noting that existing mechanisms, such as the Woodland and Peatland Carbon Codes, had driven investment in specific habitats, but that equivalent structures were lacking for other habitats. Some considered the Biodiversity Investment Plan and Natural Capital Market Framework to be limited in scope, while two respondents mentioned the role of the Scottish National Investment Bank.

Land management and use

The second most prevalent theme discussed the role of land-based sectors in delivering the draft Strategy’s outcomes. Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries were described as central to carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and rural livelihoods. Several respondents emphasised the relationship between emissions reduction and land-based delivery, highlighting the importance of domestic processing, shorter supply chains, and multifunctional land use.

A few respondents noted that permanent grasslands cover a large proportion of Scotland’s land and provide multiple public benefits, yet are not currently supported by a dedicated strategy or advisory group. A few respondents also made reference to national frameworks such as the Land Use Strategy, Blue Economy Vision, and National Marine Plan, with several respondents suggesting these be more closely connected. Some respondents commented on grazing systems, integrated land management, and the role of extensive sheep farming in biodiversity and circular economy outcomes.

Planning and place-based integration

Planning was raised by many respondents. A common view was that the draft Strategy focuses too narrowly on decarbonising individual buildings, whereas a place-based approach could support wider benefits such as urban greening, carbon sequestration, improved air and water quality, and community wellbeing. Several respondents referenced National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) and the importance of aligning planning with climate and nature priorities.

There were also frequent references to Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). A few respondents expressed interest in the consistency and robustness of impact assessments, with many highlighting the impacts on biodiversity and climate-related risks throughout the lifetime of developments. A few respondents commented on the need for stronger links between planning authorities and community-led resilience initiatives.

Community involvement

Community involvement was another common theme. Several respondents emphasised the central role of communities in delivering outcomes, referencing long-term funding, access to land, and recognition of community woodlands. Some respondents suggested that local growing projects and training spaces could be incorporated into developments and public facilities to encourage local participation. A few commented on the connection between community-led initiatives and local authority planning, as well as the importance of recognising and celebrating existing community action.

Measuring, monitoring and accountability

A few respondents raised the issue of measurement and accountability. They suggested that progress should be underpinned by clear indicators, milestones, and transparent reporting. The types of measures most frequently mentioned included carbon reduction (both operational and embodied), biodiversity recovery, resource efficiency, and socio-economic outcomes, such as job creation and skills development. A few respondents also emphasised the importance of policy stability and clear rules to instil confidence in long-term investment.

Equality and accessibility

Equality and accessibility were raised by several respondents. Views included the need to ensure that single-person and low-income households are not disadvantaged by schemes designed around dual incomes, and that recycling schemes are accessible for people with mobility challenges. Some respondents discussed workforce diversity in green sectors, citing data gaps and barriers for women and underrepresented groups in STEM and energy industries. Comments included calls for gender-competent workplace policies, flexible training options, and returner programmes, as well as the importance of monitoring diversity in apprenticeships and employment across the net zero workforce.

Other views

Several respondents expressed broader or divergent perspectives. Some called for greater urgency in action, a stronger focus on stabilising rather than growing the economy, and earlier net zero targets. A few questioned or opposed net zero policies. Several responses highlighted public health and diet as relevant to sustainability outcomes, with suggestions linking plant-based diets to environmental and economic benefits. Two fishing industry respondents emphasised the sector’s contribution to low-emission food production and expressed concern about the impact of offshore wind development. Comments by a single respondent each included the role of charity retail in reuse, the importance of durable and repairable household goods, circular approaches in construction, recycling infrastructure for island communities, and the accessibility of deposit-return schemes.