Climate / Government announces ambitious plan to turn Yell carbon neutral by 2040
YELL is one of six Scottish islands that have been chosen by the Scottish Government to become carbon neutral by 2040.
Announced by rural affairs and islands secretary Mairi Gougeon in parliament today (Tuesday) the Carbon Neutral Islands project aims to share good practices and learnings from the project with all other Scottish islands.
The other five islands destined to be carbon neutral in 18 years’ time are Hoy, Islay, Great Cumbrae, Raasay and Barra.
North Isles councillor Ryan Thomson said he hoped the community would take ownership of the ambitious project.
“This is a really exciting development,” he said, “I’m delighted to see Yell being chosen by the Scottish Government as one of the six islands chosen to be a Carbon Neutral Island project.
“I look forward to meeting and working with the Carbon Neutral Island team during the coming weeks to ensure the journey to carbon neutral status is driven by the community of Yell with the help and support it requires.
“Finally, while each island in Shetland is unique, the CNI project will be able to offer lessons and inform other islands on how it can reach their own goals.”
Gougeon said a report on the project would be published over the summer.
“Scotland is at the forefront of climate change mitigation and adaptation at the global level, and I’ve always believed that our islands will contribute significantly to the country’s net zero commitment,” she said.
“This project is another testament to Scottish islands being in the vanguard of innovation, leading the way in the journey to net zero while supporting other areas across Scotland.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.