Settargetsnow

With COP26 looming and our government falling behind on meeting emissions targets it should be moving to ensure it gets back on track. COP26 aims to achieve global net zero emissions by mid-century and keep warming below 1.5C, protect communities and natural habitats and raise at least $100 billion. This is underpinned by Greta Thunberg’s mantra to work together to deliver based on the evidence. As she says we should listen to the science rather than her.

Given its history of missing its targets, the government needs to be held to account to stay on track to meet its 2045 goal of net zero and consider additional measures such as in the following key sectors before 2032:

Transport: Proper vehicle tax traffic light system based on emissions, ranging from £0 to £2,000 per year. Domestic air tax where there are greener alternatives of 20p per mile, £120 to London return.

Biodiversity: plant at least 25,000 ha of native woodland per year from 2024 on land that is not suitable for agriculture or peatland. Protect habitats from mismanagement by sporting estates and encourage natural regeneration.

Power: 100 per cent generation by renewables, up from 50 per cent, a greater mix of wind, wave, solar and hydro with funding to replace all fossil fuel boilers such as gas.

Agriculture: move meat and dairy production to low emission breeds with grants to move livestock inside and for methane capture to power buildings.

Manufacturing: Materials including for building, packaging and furnishings to be recyclable.

Scotland can do this but it requires better collaboration between governments and the public and private sectors now. If we fall behind then our children will be left to pick up the consequences. NEIL ANDERSON

Edinburgh