Agriculture and Climate Change (Commonwealth Union) _ The Scottish Government is poised to abandon its ambitious target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030, marking a significant setback in its climate change agenda. Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan is expected to announce the decision in a statement at Holyrood, following reports of Scotland’s repeated failure to meet annual targets and the Climate Change Committee deeming the 2030 goal as “not credible.”
Described as an “abject humiliation” by critics, this move deals a blow to First Minister Humza Yousaf, who previously touted Scotland as a “world leader” in climate action. The legally-binding targets, introduced in 2019 under former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon amid declarations of a “climate emergency,” have faced mounting criticism for their unattainability.
Douglas Lumsden, the Scottish Conservative shadow secretary for net zero, energy, and transport, strongly criticized the SNP-Green Government for its failure to fulfil environmental commitments. He pointed out the glaring disparity between the government’s ambitious rhetoric and its actual achievements, underscoring the urgent need for setting realistic and actionable targets to effectively tackle climate change. Lumsden’s remarks reflect a growing concern over the gap between promises and results in environmental policy, highlighting the importance of accountability and tangible progress in safeguarding the planet’s future. As discussions on climate action intensify globally, Lumsden’s critique serves as a reminder of the imperative for governments to prioritize practical solutions and measurable outcomes in their efforts to address the pressing challenges of climate change.
The decision to abandon the 2030 target reflects broader challenges within the Scottish Government’s approach to environmental policy. Former ministers cited a “lack of realism” in setting targets, while the Scottish Greens advocated for even more ambitious goals.
The revelation comes amid growing scrutiny of Scotland’s environmental policies and its ability to lead on the global stage. With COP28 in Dubai serving as a backdrop, the Scottish Government’s retreat from its flagship emissions reduction target underscores the need for a reassessment of priorities and strategies to address climate change effectively.
