Government’s own climate exercise reveals support for Green policies
The Scottish Government’s own consultation on the climate emergency has revealed widespread support for Scottish Green policies ahead of SNP positions.
The Big Climate Conversation engaged over 2,500 people in Scotland about the government’s response to tackling the global climate emergency.
The summary of responses reveals the public back more investment in public transport and active travel, the phasing out of fossil fuels while investing in alternative jobs and a shift towards local and seasonal food. All these are areas the Scottish Greens have been pushing the Scottish Government to take action on.
Responding, Scottish Green environment spokesperson Mark Ruskell said: “It is heartening that the public recognise the urgency and scale required by government to tackle the climate emergency. These views will hopefully be reflected in the Climate Change Plan, but the Scottish Government will require a major change of heart if it is to shift position on the fundamentals. It’s clear from the conversation that we need system change to tackle climate change.
“Like the other parties, the SNP has yet to recognise that the just transition away from fossil fuels needs to start now. Ministers say they prioritise public transport, but billions are being wasted on congestion-creating road expansions. And the Scottish Government’s plans for agriculture and food production have been criticised by their own climate advisers.
“The Scottish Government need to start listening to the public, and take on board what we have been telling them. Building a world class, affordable public transport system that busts congestion has to be the top goal.”