Net Zero and climate action in the South of Scotland

‘Net Zero’ in a nutshell means cutting our net greenhouse gas emissions to as close to zero as possible, to help mitigate the global emergency of climate change.

Every business and community needs to do their bit. In Scotland, we’re already seeing the impacts, including summer heatwaves, flooding, and higher winter temperatures.

The Scottish Government has set an ambitious target for Scotland to become ‘Net Zero’ by 2045. SOSE is committed to supporting this, by helping businesses and communities to learn, adapt and benefit. See SOSE's Powering Change plan, which was developed for the region together with local and national partners. 

Some Net Zero adaptations may be handled at regional level. Others can be achieved by communities, organisations, businesses and individuals in their local area - and that includes you!

Whatever stage you're at on your Net Zero journey, SOSE can work together with you to support your aims, and identify opportunities. 

Powering Change - calling the South of Scotland to action

SOSE support for a just transition to Net Zero

SOSE is helping people in Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders to play their part in a just transition to Net Zero – see our Case Studies for inspiration. Our dedicated Net Zero

team includes specialists for businesses, communities, and social enterprise. They’ll help you to integrate Net Zero into your planning and processes, to ensure that you’re well geared up

for future sustainability. Team SOSE can also alert you to emerging opportunities and partnerships to benefit your project. Typical themes may include:

• circular economy
• waste reduction
• skills training
• energy transition
• active travel
• making the most of natural assets.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and priorities and funding streams change, so it’s best to keep in touch with your adviser.

Net Zero information

Net Zero is a complex topic with many dimensions. These sites give a clear, practical overview for communities and businesses, and policy documents for anyone who needs a

strategic overview. For SOSE's action plan for the South of Scotland, see Powering Change.

Scotland's Climate Week toolkit                                       

Scotland’s Climate Week Toolkit, specially created for public, private and third-sector organisations to provide key information on how to get involved.

Adaptation Scotland                                       

Advice and support for communities and organisations on adaptation and climate change resilience.

Zero Waste Scotland

Helping Scottish businesses to accelerate the circular economy and use resources efficiently.

Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener

UK Government strategic and policy documents on UK Net Zero targets.

 South of Scotland Net Zero Inward Investment Guide 

A new guide has been launched which aims to help the South of Scotland become the UK’s first Net Zero region.