The Scottish Government has laid out fresh proposals in its draft climate action plan, outlining an ambitious path to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin addressed MSPs, emphasising that Scotland is already feeling the effects of a changing climate, referencing recent flooding, heatwaves, and wildfires as a call to immediate action.
The plan recommits the government to phasing out the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, a move expected to accelerate the transition to cleaner transport across Scotland. The draft also sets a target to fully decarbonise building heat systems by 2045, alongside expanded woodland creation and a renewed push for peatland restoration, giving nature-based solutions a central role in emission reduction.
Martin highlighted Scotland’s “massive untapped potential” for renewable energy, indicating that there is scope for further development across wind, tidal, and solar resources. Stressing the importance of a “just transition”, the plan commits to supporting workers within the oil and gas sector as the economy shifts toward low-carbon jobs and industries.
Opposition MSPs were quick to criticise the draft plan, suggesting it rehashes existing Scottish National Party policies and arguing that it lacks the detail and clarity needed to instil confidence in reaching the 2045 net zero target. Calls for more transparent, actionable steps have been echoed by environmental campaigners.
Caroline Rance, representing Friends of the Earth Scotland, described the proposals as a “dreadful plan” and warned it would “barely scratch the surface” of the ambition required to effectively tackle the climate crisis.
With the public and political debate intensifying, the Scottish Government faces pressure to refine its climate strategy, address gaps in delivery, and ensure its net zero ambitions are underpinned by robust, achievable policy. Stakeholder consultation and parliamentary scrutiny will continue as the draft moves forward, keeping Scotland’s climate future firmly at the centre of the national conversation.
