Scotland’s Climate Week 2023

This week is Scotland’s Climate Week. Throughout the week Net Zero Scotland will be encouraging individuals, businesses and communities across Scotland to reduce their carbon emissions. We have already made some great progress and it’s important that we keep going to ensure we can achieve net zero together.

This year’s theme is taking action in the areas that will make the most impact. In Scotland this means tackling our two biggest sources of carbon emissions – transport and home heating. For Scotland’s Climate Week this year, consider the ways you can cut down how often you use the car and how you can improve your home heating. The great thing about these measures is they’re not just good for the environment – they can also save you money.

How can you reduce your transport emissions for Scotland’s Climate Week?

Did you know that 41% of Scotland’s transport emissions come from cars? The majority of journeys made in Scotland are still made by car. It’s no wonder that transport is our biggest contributor to climate change.

The best way to cut down your emissions is to opt for active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) when you can – especially for journeys less than 5km. According to Sustrans, this saves 440,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. Consider opting to use the car less for Scotland’s Climate Week.

If you’re thinking about getting an ebike (they’re great for tackling hilly streets) you can check out Energy Saving Trust’s new and used ebike loan: https://www.homeenergyscotland.org/funding/ebike-loan/

For those longer journeys consider getting an electric vehicle. The network of chargepoints is growing – and with the Used EV Loan you can also receive a grant for getting a home chargepoint: https://www.homeenergyscotland.org/funding/electric-vehicle-loans/

Of course, we understand it can be more difficult to reduce your transport emissions during winter. The colder months are nearly upon us, so check out our blog for ways to reduce your emissions as the days get shorter: https://www.homeenergyscotland.org/winter-transport/

What about home heating emissions?

Around one fifth of Scotland’s emissions come from how we heat our homes and buildings. The good news is that making your home more energy efficient also means you’ll spend less money in the long run. Research your options for Scotland’s Climate Week this year.

Not sure where you begin? Our Home Energy Check is a great tool for getting bespoke advice based on your property. You can give it a go here: https://homeenergyscotland-advice.est.org.uk/HEC

You can also find out what funding is available in your area with our Funding Finder tool: https://homeenergyscotland-advice.est.org.uk/FundingFinder

We also understand that rural homes have some unique challenges when it comes to energy efficiency and keeping warm. Check out the following blog for some advice for those living in rural areas: https://www.homeenergyscotland.org/support-for-rural-homes-in-scotland/

What else can I do for Scotland’s Climate Week?

Transport and home heating will make the biggest impact – but smaller changes also help. Visit Net Zero Scotland to learn more about what other actions you can take to help the planet. You can also follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram where we will be sharing ideas throughout the week.

Want more advice on what you can do outside of the home? Business Energy Scotland can offer help if you run a business and want to cut your emissions, whilst Local Energy Scotland helps communities across the country.

For free and impartial advice on how you can reduce your emissions, save money on your energy bills and keep your home warm give us a call on 0808 808 2282. Prefer to keep in touch online? Fill in our contact form for advice via email, or send us a private message on Facebook.