Climate Change Taskforce

20 April 2012, , Correspondence

Letter to European Energy Ministers on Energy Efficiency Directive

LINK, along with other environmental NGOs from Europe, have signed up to letter for European Energy Ministers on Energy Efficiency Directive entitled Achieving the 20% energy savings target: time to turn promises into action.

10 April 2012, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Parliamentary Briefings

LINK Parliamentary briefing on Scotland's Climate Change Adaptation Programme

Scotland needs to plan now for the consequences and impacts of our changing climate. LINK is concerned that there is considerable work to be done to develop policies in order to meet the challenges and be worthy of inclusion in Scotland's Adaptation Programme. LINK is concerned that the Scottish Government's development of the Programme is not sufficiently prioritized or following adaptation principles and that the funding in opaque.

9 February 2011, LINK, Parliamentary Briefings

Climate Change and the EU Briefing

We believe there are strong arguments that Scotland’s approach to emission reduction targets should be followed by the EU if we are to be serious in our approach to tackling Climate Change.

10 March 2010, ,

Oral Evidence on the Forth Crossing

Aedan Smith (RSPB) represented Scottish Environment LINK to the Scottish Parliament's Forth Crossing Bill Committee as they took evidence on the impact of the construction and operation of the bridge on designated sites and wildlife, air quality, the marine and terrestrial environment and the environment that is enjoyed by local residents and businesses.

17 November 2009, , Parliamentary Briefings

Oral Evidence on European Union Budget Review Inquiry

LINK gave oral evidence to the Scottish Parliament European and External Relations Committee for their inquiry into the European Union Budget Review.

See also our written evidence: Inquiry into the EU Budget Review and EU Budget Reform Inquiry, Additional Evidence

4 September 2009, LINK, Parliamentary Briefings

EU Budget Reform Inquiry, Additional Evidence

LINK believes that the EU budget must be adapted to tackle emerging policy challenges, many of which have arisen due a failure in applying the principles of sustainable development in a coherent and effective way. The major of impacts of the failure of the sustainability agenda are anthropogenic climate change, degradation of terrestrial and marine ecosystems and, linked to these, the continuing loss of biodiversity. These now seriously threaten not just our environment, but our economy and ultimately societal stability.

The future EU budget should therefore be targeted at policies which will move the EU and Scotland rapidly towards a sustainable economy; where environmental limits are not exceeded; where there are sustainable patterns of production and consumption; and where ecosystems are in a state of recovery rather than degradation.

See also our original evidence to the inquiry from December 2008

30 April 2009, LINK,

LINK Energy Emissions 2006-09

An analysis of LINK's carbon emissions and energy costs in Perth HQ over the period 2006 to 2009, showing the positive effect of insulating the building and replacing some electrical storage heaters with extended gas central heating
 

20 February 2009, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Parliamentary Briefings

Muirburn

LINK provide evidence regarding muirburn to the Scottish Parliament's Rural Affairs and Environment committee, during their examination of the Climate Change Bill.

3 February 2009, LINK Woodlands Taskforce, Parliamentary Briefings

Forestry Proposals in the Climate Change (Scotland) Bill

LINK has repeatedly expressed its view that the best way to respond to climate change is to first reduce green house gas emissions by moving away from carbon based energy production, reducing energy consumption and energy loss. We see carbon sequestration as one of the secondary responses that feature further down the list of the multiple benefits forestry provides.

The plans proposed in the recent consultation and the enabling powers in the Climate Change (Scotland) Bill are controversial and as yet, they have not been fully explained or costed. Our detailed concerns on these proposals are presented below...

30 January 2009, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Consultation Responses

The Consenting Process for Thermal Power Stations in Scotland

We are concerned by proposals for new unabated coal capacity in Scotland, as coal is the most carbon intensive of all fossil fuels. LINK believes that, given the climate change targets to deliver an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, it is not justifiable to allow the building of any new fossil fuel power stations in Scotland which do not have full-scale Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) installed and operating from the outset...

A response to the Scottish Government consultation on the guidance note on Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 under which Scottish Ministers determine consents for proposed thermal power stations, from the LINK climate taskforce

30 January 2009, LINK Woodlands Taskforce, Consultation Responses

Climate Change and the National Forest Estate

Consultation on forestry provisions in the Scottish Climate Change Bill

In principle we welcome the fresh look at how the FCS can deliver for climate change but we are particularly uncomfortable, as we have highlighted before1, with woodland creation for carbon sequestration becoming the primary driver for the government and the National Forest Estate (NFE). LINK has repeatedly expressed its view that the best way to respond to climate change is to first reduce green house gas emissions by moving away from carbon based energy production, reducing energy consumption and energy loss. We see carbon sequestration as one of the secondary responses that feature further down the list of the multiple benefits forestry can provide...

15 December 2008, LINK, Parliamentary Briefings

Inquiry into the EU Budget Review

Response to the Scottish Parlaiment's Europe and External Relations Committee inquiry into the EU Budget Review.

As a general principle, LINK believes the majority of the EU budget should be targeted at protecting and improving public goods. This will require investment in ‘environmental and social capital’ including initiatives which encourage a shift towards truly sustainable consumption and production. Substantial efforts are required to align the EU budget to better deliver public goods and to tackle the twin threats of climate change and biodiversity loss in Europe and Scotland. Climate change and biodiversity loss are key policy priorities for the EU yet spending in these crucial areas has not yet reflected the rhetoric.

16 September 2008, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Position Papers

Time to Act on Climate Change

A clarion call from Scotland’s environmental movement.

This statement sets out LINK's views on the main issues to be addressed if climate change is to be tackled effectively in Scotland.

28 May 2008, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Parliamentary Briefings

Climate Change Debate

Briefing paper from the Scottish Environment LINK Climate Task Force for the Scottish Government Debate on Climate Change, Wednesday 28th May 2008.

25 April 2008, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Consultation Responses

Proposals for a Scottish Climate Change Bill

LINK believes that Scotland needs urgent action on climate change and have been calling for greenhouse gas reductions to be delivered in a sustainable manner and for adaptation measures to be put in place to help secure our natural and cultural heritage.

The Scottish Climate Change Bill should contain a duty on all public bodies to deliver climate change reductions in a sustainable manner in line with the national target.

Response to the Scottish Government Consultation on Proposals for a Scottish Climate Change Bill

6 January 2008, LINK Woodlands Taskforce, Position Papers

Forestry Policy and Carbon Sequestration in Scotland

LINK believes that carbon sequestration should not be a primary driver of forestry policy, management of the National Forest Estate, and grant spend in Scotland. Whilst we accept that trees do sequester carbon, and through this process can make a small contribution to combating climate change, primary focus should continue to be on ensuring delivery of multiple public benefits such as enhanced biodiversity, improved access and health opportunities, landscape and historical environment enhancement and rural economic development. LINK does not therefore support any shift in resources away from existing policy priorities towards support for ‘sequestration forestry’ per se.

14 December 2007, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Position Papers

Abolition of Bridge Tolls (Scotland) Bill

We are very concerned by a amendment to the Bill which would remove the power of bridge authorities to introduce road user charging on any bridge in Scotland. We consider this would be an enormously retrograde step, and we are writing to urge MSPs not to support such an amendment at stage three. We have supported proposals for reductions in Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions and feel such an amendment would significantly limit future policy options for delivering this target.

16 August 2007, LINK Woodlands Taskforce, Position Papers

Woodland Creation Grants

Scottish Environment LINK was surprised by the recent launch of the Woodland Creation Grants for 2007-2008 application year. Having read through the Support for Woodland Creation in the 2007/08 Planting Season document there are a number of issues that give us some concern and where we seek clarification...

18 July 2007, Joint LINK, Position Papers

Bioenergy in the UK
Turning Green Promises into Environmental Reality

This paper sets out the measures Link believe need to be taken by national and devolved governments, and associated agencies and public bodies, to ensure that UK bioenergy production and use develops in a sustainable way, achieving signifi cant greenhouse gas (GHG) savings, whilst avoiding damaging impacts on the natural and historic environment.

A policy paper by the Joint Links; Wildlife and Countryside Link ,Wales Environment Link, Northern Ireland Environment  Link and Scottish Environment LINK

6 June 2007, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Consultation Responses

Response to DEFRA Consultation on the Draft UK Climate Change Bill

The UK Government should develop its targets in full consultation with devolved administrations and ensure adequate representation on the Committee for Climate Change. Additional legislation at country level will be required by devolved administrations who may wish to set more ambitious targets, or make provision for specific mitigation measures.

Joint response from LINK and Stop Climate Choas Scotland

13 May 2007, LINK Sustainable Scotland Taskforce, Parliamentary Briefings

Greener Scotland Debate

Managing our environment well is integral to successful governance, as a rich and diverse natural and cultural heritage is the cornerstone of a high quality sustainable economy. If done properly, looking after our environment and preserving our natural resources can enhance economic activity. For example, maintaining healthy seas ensures a sustainable fishing industry and enhances wildlife tourism. On land, the Scottish countryside is a major attraction for tourists and brings in £3.6 billion in revenue annually. In some cases, such as tackling climate change, investment is essential and can kick start new industries – such as the renewable energy industry.

Briefing for the Executive 'Greener Scotland' debate

6 May 2007, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Position Papers

Ten Principles for Tackling Climate Change Sustainably

Climate change is the most serious environmental problem facing the globe. In Scotland it will mean more unpredictable weather, more storms and rising seas, leading to floods, drought, failed harvests, the spread of disease and whole species being wiped out.Here we outline the 10 principles needed to tackle climate change sustainably.

13 July 2006, LINK, Consultation Responses

Scotland's National Transport Strategy

In its current form this strategy will do little to halt the growth in road traffic and the damaging environmental impacts made by carbon emissions, increased road building and air travel. We call on the Executive to produce a finished strategy that is a far-sighted and inspiring programme of measures to tackle oil dependency, reduce road traffic, protect the environment and improve the health of the nation and, in so doing, position Scotland at the forefront of eco-friendly transport in Europe.

Response to the Executives 'Scotland's National Transport Strategy: A Consultation'

5 June 2006, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Parliamentary Briefings

Climate Change Action Plan Debate

Scottish Environment LINK welcomes the setting of a Scottish Target for reducing carbon emissions and the commitment to report annually to the Parliament on progress. In order to ensure the effective implementation of the Climate Change Programme, LINK would also like to see:

• Annual targets and annual reports on progress towards current targets on greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency and % of electricity from renewables.
• Clear sectoral targets for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and energy conservation/efficiency
• Continued commitment to achieving the target to stabilise road traffic levels at 2001 by 2011, and annual targets and an action plan to achieve this

30 March 2006, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Press Releases

LINK Welcomes Climate Targets

We welcome the Government's announcement to set Scottish targets to reduce emissions. We have long argued that this is a key part of ensuring that Scotland makes progress in tackling climate change.

"We will now be keeping a close eye on the implementation of the strategy to ensure that it results in real cuts in climate emissions from Scotland."

22 February 2006, LINK Woodlands Taskforce, Parliamentary Briefings

Developments in the Biomass Industry

The Committee’s interest in the development of biomass is welcomed. Electricity represents approximately 20% of all the energy used in households in Scotland, leaving around 80% as energy generated for heat. The generation of an increasing proportion of this energy from sustainable sources, such as biomass, in conjunction with targets for emission reduction, stabilisation of energy consumption and energy efficiency will contribute significantly to Scotland meeting aspirations for a 60% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050...

Written submission to support oral evidence.

1 December 2005, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Position Papers

Electricity in Scotland – Transmission and Distribution

An examination in public, either through Strategic Environmental Assessment or by a Planning Inquiry, must be undertaken by Scottish Ministers before significant upgrading of the electricity transmission system in Scotland. Major expansion of the grid should not take place without a clear policy context and proper integration with sustainable development principles.

12 October 2005, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Press Releases

Cross-party Position on Global Warming

LINK welcomes the joint proposal from the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats for cross-party consensus on countering global warming and new measures to cut greenhouse gases.
 

30 September 2005, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Position Papers

LINK Climate Change Action Plan

LINK member bodies believe that Scotland needs urgent action on climate change and highlight the 10 key points
 

31 March 2005, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Consultation Responses

DEFRA consultation on the review of the UK Climate Change Programme

LINK members view climate change as the most serious problem facing the globe.  Urgent action is required to reduce the anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change if we are to avoid the worst consequences.
 

31 March 2005, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Consultation Responses

Scottish Executive consultation on the review of the Scottish Climate Change Programme

LINK members view climate change as the most serious problem facing the globe. Urgent action is required to reduce the anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change if we are to avoid the worst consequences.

28 February 2005, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Parliamentary Briefings

Written Evidence to the Environment and Rural Development Committee Inquiry on Climate Change

LINK Climate Change Action Plan calls on the Scottish Executive to develop, implement and resource a detailed Scottish Strategy on Climate Change which brings together social, environmental and economic interests to reduce emissions and improve quality of life.

 

28 February 2005, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Position Papers

LINK Concern Paper for the Environmental Advisory Forum For Renewable Energy (EAFRE)

In LINK’s energy policy statement and in the evidence LINK submitted to the parliamentary inquiry into renewable energy in Scotland we highlighted our concerns and sought action from the Scottish Executive.
The 13 key points arising from these papers and based on the experience of LINK member organisations are given.
 

5 October 2004, LINK Wildlife Taskforce, Consultation Responses

Scottish Biodiversity Strategy ‘It’s In Your Hands’

The LINK Biodiversity Taskforce welcomed the launch of the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy ‘It’s In Your Hands’ (SBS) and supports the concept of its focused delivery through detailed Implementation Plans. LINK members have been heavily involved in developing the Implementation Plans through the various working groups. While we believe the groups have succeeded in identifying what needs to be done, the plans still require a significant amount of further work to determine exactly how each issue is to be addressed.

1 July 2003, LINK Climate Change Taskforce, Position Papers

LINK Energy Statement July 2003

Scotland can do much more to meet the climate challenge. Members of Scottish Environment LINK propose 11 measures.
 

1 March 2003, LINK, Position Papers

For Better or Worse? Environment Policy in the First Four Years of Scotland’s Parliament.

The establishment of the new Scottish Parliament in 1999 brought not only new political institutions to Scotland, but also new aspirations and expectations of what might be achieved through the devolution settlement. Certainly the principle of devolution, and the specific powers vested in the Parliament, meant that it could address issues of importance to Scotland quicker than was previously the case, and with policies tailored specifically to Scottish needs and priorities.

This report, with input from many of the key players such as the Minister and Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural Development, examines the way in which the Scottish Parliament and Executive have risen to the particular challenges posed by the issues of Environment and Sustainability, whether through legislation, policies, strategies, initiatives, action plans, reports or debates.