Looking ahead to a greener future
The green ambitions of Highland Council were highlighted by leader Margaret Davidson ahead of its meeting on October 28.
Speaking prior to last week’s Highland Climate Change Conference she said: ‘I am delighted there was cross chamber support at our meeting of Highland Council on September 9 for a Future Highlands Strategy, with the development of a Green Energy Hub in Highland at its heart.
‘The Highland Climate Change Conference and COP26 in Glasgow next month sets the scene for people and nations to come together to focus on the ecological emergency facing us.
‘A report to the council this week will set out more detailed plans for a green hub for Scotland here in Highland.’
Cuncillor Davidson said the ambitious plan would involve working collaboratively with key partners to put the Highlands at the forefront of addressing climate change and sustainable energy requirements in Scotland, deriving value from waste, attracting green businesses and affordable energy efficient homes.
‘We will also be giving our full support to the development of a green port in Highland,’ she added.
‘The Opportunity Cromarty Firth (OCF) Consortium is waiting for the chance to bid for green port or free port status which would have significant benefits for the whole of the Highlands. A co-ordinated, innovative approach between all public and private sectors will maximise the benefits, including the regeneration and sustainability of communities.’
The council is working with a number of partners through the OCF consortium to promote projects that aim to reinforce and optimise Highland’s ongoing contribution to climate action at national and regional level.
Deputy Leader Councillor Alasdair Christie added: ‘Achieving the vision of a Green Hub for Scotland in Highland will bring enormous opportunities to our population.
‘One of our biggest challenges is depopulation and young people moving away from the Highlands. We need to provide clear opportunities and affordable, quality housing is essential to encourage inward migration and tackle recruitment and retention.
‘Fuel poverty is another enormous problem for our communities. By developing a green hub for renewable energy, we can lay the foundations for a more sustainable and brighter future for everyone.’