PLANS to cut greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland by 90 per cent over the next 28 years could lead to some people in rural communities being disadvantaged, according to the results of a major public consultation.
More than 19,000 people, including hundreds of companies, public bodies, charities and other groups replied to the Scottish Government’s call for views on the proposed Scottish Climate Change Bill.
Some of those who took part feared that people living in remote areas could be left disadvantaged by their failure to access public transport and the roll out of a ‘district’ heating scheme to promote low carbon and renewable technologies.
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Analysis of the responses found a few highlighted geographical differences have a potentially greater impact on the ability of those living in remote communities to meet climate targets than for people living in other areas of the country.
In its submission, an unnamed public body called for ‘full recognition to be given to the additional constraints and challenges faced by island communities.’ Although responses cited the potential for a low carbon economy to cut fuel poverty and give people more disposable income, a few pointed out remote areas such as the Highlands and Islands are more dependent on carbon-based energy and fuel than others.
Elsewhere, some respondents believed the Bill provided a lack of ‘meaningful insight into the potential impacts on Scotland’s people' with the beneficial health benefits cited.
Respondents called for a commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Gail Wilson, of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, said the “range and depth of concern about the impact of climate change is far-reaching and diverse.”
A government spokesman: “We support the Paris Agreement aspiration for global emissions to reach net zero levels in the second half of the century, and are taking time to fully consider all responses to the public consultation."