Fair ways to tackle eco crisis

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and broadcaster David Attenborough look at a projection of planet earth during the launch of the COP26 Climate Summit

IAN BUNTING

People and businesses in Monklands are being encouraged to share their opinions on how Scotland can end its contribution to climate change as fairly and justly as possible for all in society.

The Just Transition Commission was set up to advise the Scottish Government on how to manage a fair transition to a net-zero economy by 2045; and recently published its interim report, which outlined 12 initial recommendations to help achieve this goal.

Now, as part of a nationwide call to action, members of the public and organisations in Airdrie and Coatbridge are asked to offer their insights by submitting evidence to the commission by May 28. The evidence received will help inform its full report, scheduled to be given to the Scottish Government in January 2021.

Professor Jim Skea, chairman of the Just Transition Commission, said: “Our goal is to ensure the benefits of the transition to net-zero are felt across society and all sectors of the economy.

“The costs cannot fall disproportionately on those who are least able to manage them or on those who are directly or indirectly affected as the economy shifts and changes.

“Many communities have suffered injustices in the past, for example with the decline of coal mining, and we must learn from these mistakes.

“But we must also ensure we maximise the many social and economic opportunities that the move to net zero emissions offers.

“We do not have all the answers, noone does, therefore we need people to help identify the various challenges and opportunities they may be aware of.

“In order to achieve a just transition, it’s important that we hear from a wide cross-section of society and businesses from all sectors.”

To submit evidence to the Just Transition Commission, visit www.gov.scot/groups/ just-transition-commission/

Time for action