On tomorrow’s Clean Air Day, Scotland will join a global movement to raise awareness about air pollution and its impact on health and the environment.
Protecting and improving Scotland’s environment is our primary purpose, with good air quality essential for maintaining human health and well-being, the climate and achieving sustainable economic development.
We regulate emissions from industrial activities, support local air quality management and provide public access to emissions data through the Scottish Pollutant Release Inventory (SPRI).
Education is also central to our mission, with initiatives such as providing low-cost air quality sensors to schools. Through our partnership with East Renfrewshire Council, we’ve helped pupils learn about pollution levels and advocate for cleaner air, while anti-idling patrols and banner competitions encourage sustainable travel choices.
For our colleagues, we promote sustainable commuting through our Cycle to Work Scheme, encouraging them to opt for cycling as a greener alternative to driving. This initiative supports the purchasing of bicycles and cycling equipment via salary sacrifice, making it more affordable while reducing carbon emissions and improving mental well-being.
Stay informed about air quality in your area with the air pollution map.
This interactive tool lets you check real-time air quality readings by postcode, explore monitoring sites, track pollutants and access detailed site information.
Whether you’re planning outdoor activities or keeping an eye on local conditions, this resource provides valuable insights.
As water scarcity continues, we remain committed to keeping you informed with weekly updates on water levels and conservation efforts. Below are the current water scarcity levels across the country as at 16th June 2025.
Navigating water scarcity: Insights from the Local Zero Podcast
Our Principal Hydrologist Ellie Willmott recently joined Local Zero Podcast hosts Jen and Matt, alongside Laura Major, Research Fellow and anthropologist in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Strathclyde to discuss the pressing issue of water scarcity in the UK.
Their conversation delved into the effects of climate change on water resources and the impact on communities across Scotland. Ellie provided valuable insights into the work we do to monitor water levels and promote sustainable water use.
We’re taking an important step towards sustainability by integrating electric vehicles (EVs) into our fleet. As part of our commitment to achieving our net-zero goals, we’re transitioning to cleaner transport solutions, reducing our emissions and setting an example for environmental responsibility.
During 2024/25, the proportion of EVs in our fleet grew from 25% to 34%, and marks an important step in implementing the strategic direction of our fleet and our goal of a zero-emission fleet by 2030.
By using EVs, we’re not only cutting our carbon footprint but also demonstrating leadership in sustainable operations. The approach comes from our current Corporate Plan and Annual Operating Plan, as well as Scotland’s broader climate strategy, supporting cleaner air, lower operational costs and a greener future.
With advancements in charging infrastructure and vehicle technology, our fleet transformation marks a milestone in our mission to protect and enhance Scotland’s environment.
Natural flood management: Working with nature for resilient communities
Scotland’s approach to flood resilience has evolved as we adapt to a changing climate. We’ll help create flood resilient places, ensuring that people and places are prepared for increased flooding.
Through flood risk management planning, we provide independent and evidence-based advice to help inform placemaking decisions. We work with organisations and partners to embed flood resilience within community resilience and climate adaptation planning.
We support projects such as the Eddleston Water, a long-term study that investigates the effectiveness of natural flood management (NFM) techniques and habitat restoration measures at a catchment scale. Measures have been taken to help prevent flooding, including planting trees, creating log-structures, temporary flood storage ponds and river re-meandering to reconnect channels to the floodplain. These measures slow down water flows and increase the amount stored on the landscape.
The findings suggest NFM effectiveness works well in small catchments as a climate adaptation measure and can provide good value for money. By using both observed and recorded data, results have shown reduced peak water levels downstream during heavy rain, and a delay of up to 7 hours in the timing of peaks, giving people more time to prepare and take action.
A cost-benefit analysis estimated that almost £1 million worth of flood damage (over a 100-year period) will be avoided in downstream communities by the impact of the measures already installed. The value of other benefits, including improved water quality, carbon management and biodiversity is estimated at £4.2 million.
Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions continue to decline
Scotland continues to make steady progress in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions according to recently published Official Statistics.
In 2023, the nation’s net emissions totalled 39.6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e), marking a 1.9% decline from 2022. There was a large reduction in emissions within the electricity generation sector, which was primarily driven by a large decrease in gas-fired electricity production.
Scotland has made significant progress in reducing emissions over the decades. Since 1990, overall emissions have fallen by 51.3%, with most sectors showing significant improvements. However, the International Aviation and Shipping sector remains an exception, facing unique challenges due to its global nature.
Scottish Government publishes consultation results
The Scottish Government’s consultation on single-use disposable beverage cup charges drew a wide range of perspectives from both individuals and organisations. While many supported the initiative as a way to drive positive environmental change, others expressed concerns about its financial and practical implications.
There was little consensus on the most appropriate minimum price, though £0.25 and £0.50 emerged as the most common choices among those who favoured a charge.
