The Scottish Government has published a new strategy to give people a bigger say in how Scotland responds to the climate and nature crisis. It was launched during Scotland’s Climate Week.
What the strategy aims to do
The Public Engagement Strategy for Climate and Nature aims to help people understand what climate change means for them, encourage local action and make sure their views shape decisions that affect them.
The government cites research showing 72% of people in Scotland agree climate change is an urgent problem. It wants to turn that concern into participation. It also notes that Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions have been cut by 50% since 1990.
Practical help for communities
For local people, the strategy points to practical help with protecting homes from flooding, restoring habitats such as rivers and peatland, and changing how people travel or heat their homes. It also promises more targeted support for those most at risk from extreme weather.
The minister’s view
Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin launched the strategy before visiting Lapwing Lodge Outdoor Centre in Paisley, which has government-backed solar panels, battery storage and an electric vehicle charging point. She said wildfires, flooding, coastal erosion and water scarcity are already affecting communities, and that people should have a real say in decisions that affect them.
What comes next
A separate Delivery Plan, due in spring 2027, will set out specific activities, partnerships and commitments. Until then, the strategy sets a direction rather than a timetable of local projects.
