NatureScot success in reducing carbon emissions

17 January 2019

NatureScot has slashed carbon emissions by more than a quarter over the past three years as the organisation steps up action to tackle climate change.

In 2017/18 NatureScot’s total emissions were 1,108 tonnes of CO₂  - a reduction of 11% year-on-year and a fall of 29% since 2014/15 when mandatory reporting for public bodies was first introduced.

The figure includes all emissions from offices, visitor centres, oil for heating, biomass, pool cars, public transport, flights and ferries.

During March 2018 staff ditched their cars to cover 23,403 miles over 1,555 journeys by foot, bike, public transport or lift-share.

The effort saved 2,689 kg of carbon emissions and put NatureScot top of our category in the Sustrans Scottish Workplace Journey Challenge.

The organisation is working towards running its pool car fleet without fossil-based fuels by 2026, with five electric cars acquired in 2017/18 and charging points installed at four sites.

Nine more electric vehicles are planned to be added to the fleet and ten more charging points installed over 2018/19.

A new, more efficient, biomass boiler has been installed at NatureScot’s Golspie office and office running costs have been lowered by reducing floor space and sharing with other public bodies as staff move towards more mobile working.

NatureScot Chief Executive Francesca Osowska said: “Climate change presents the single greatest threat to Scotland’s habitats, so it is imperative that we do all that we can to reduce our carbon footprint.

“As the organisation with primary responsibility for protecting Scotland’s nature, we are determined to lead by example and are delighted that the efforts of all our staff have paid off with this fantastic reduction.

“We are not complacent, however, and will continue to work to cut our emissions even further to ensure Scotland’s nature survives and thrives for future generations.”

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