Scotland must increase investment in low carbon infrastructure by at least 20 percentage points to meet its climate change targets, according to a new report.
The research commissioned by the Low Carbon Infrastructure taskforce acknowledges the Scottish Government’s “ambitious” emissions targets but warns of “critical weaknesses” in the current approach to infrastructure planning.
It argues that more public and private investment in infrastructure such as heating systems, public transport, walking and cycling networks and the low carbon economy will help eradicate fuel poverty, improve health and create jobs.
The report said: “International comparisons suggest that Scotland’s public investment in low carbon infrastructure needs to increase by a minimum of 20 percentage points just to be in line with average global levels of investment and more if Scotland is to meet its climate change targets.
“Failing to invest in low carbon infrastructure will lock in high emissions and vulnerability to the multiple impacts of climate change, leaving a legacy of buildings, roads, energy generation and more which will be expensive to adapt in the future.
“Instead, Scotland can seize the opportunity now to increase investment in low carbon infrastructure, gaining the benefits in terms of climate change, but also economic progress and social welfare for years to come.”
The report highlights strong progress in areas such as renewable energy but says transport, heat and domestic energy efficiency pose “significant challenges”.
These areas would benefit from “transformative” new low carbon infrastructure projects, it concludes.
Sara Thiam, taskforce chair and director of the Institution of Civil Engineers, said she hoped the report would inspire young engineers to take up the challenge.
She said: “As Scotland prepares to spend billions of pounds over the coming decades to upgrade our ageing infrastructure, it’s essential we invest wisely for the future, building infrastructure that improves our economy, environment and quality of life for the people of Scotland in the 21st century and beyond.
“I’m delighted to be playing a part in this exciting new project which I hope will inspire the next generation of men and women into the profession to build on the legacy of famous engineers of the past including Telford, Watt, Arrol and Stevenson.
“They have the potential to build a better world by getting involved in 21st century engineering projects that will stand the test of time, as the Forth Bridge has done.”
Dr Sam Gardner, taskforce member and head of policy at WWF Scotland, said: The report shows that Scotland’s climate action plan must be matched by an infrastructure plan that ensures we build the foundations for a low carbon future.
“Securing the benefits of a low carbon Scotland will mean shifting the focus from projects that lock in high carbon emissions to the essential fabric of a low carbon economy such as energy efficiency, district heating and sustainable transport.”
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “This report provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing challenge of tackling climate change and building a low carbon economy in Scotland.
“We acknowledge WWF’s recognition of the Scottish Government’s achievements in areas like renewables, but recognise the need for comprehensive approach to low carbon infrastructure.
“We continue to develop our understanding of Scotland’s long-term infrastructure requirements in this area.”
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