Scotland Adjusts Climate Goals, Net Zero by 2045 Still in Sight

On April 18, 2024, Scotland abandoned its aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030 due to constraints from the central British government. However, the country remains committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2045.

Such a decision follows a critical report by the independent Climate Change Committee, which deemed the 2030 target unattainable. It stated that Scotland was so far behind what was needed to meet and that it was no longer credible.

Scotland cites reduced capital funding from the British government and a general decline in climate ambition as contributing factors to the setback.

While the British government has delayed certain climate targets, Scotland's goals continue to surpass those of the UK, reflecting its determination to address climate change despite economic concerns.

Scotland's 75% target - measured against a 1990 baseline level - was more ambitious than the overall Britain-wide commitment of at least 68% reduction by 2030.