Challenges in Implementing Net Zero Policies
As John Swinney gears up to announce his Programme for Government, the focus is expected to be on addressing the key concerns of the Scottish public. His priorities of ‘people, prosperity, public services, and the planet’ highlight the importance of taking action to tackle climate change and its impacts. However, despite the growing public support for policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing net zero policies comes with its own set of challenges.
Public Support for Net Zero Policies
Recent research from Ipsos and the Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations (CAST) indicates that supporting home energy efficiency improvements is the top net zero policy priority for the public. This policy, which involves providing assistance to individuals to make changes, has garnered the support of around 70% of the population. Additionally, policies like phasing out the sale of gas and coal boilers have also received significant public backing.
While there is widespread support for net zero policies, there are signs that public concern about climate change may be waning. Despite 77% of the UK public expressing worry about climate change, recent polling shows a five-percentage-point decrease in concern between 2022 and 2024. This shift in priorities can be attributed to more immediate issues such as the NHS, economy, and cost of living taking precedence over climate change in the public’s mindset.
Challenges in Maintaining Public Support
Although public support for net zero policies remains relatively high, there has been a decline in backing for certain measures over the past two years. For instance, support for phasing out the sale of gas and coal boilers dropped by 14 percentage points between 2022 and 2024. This decline may be influenced by factors like the cost-of-living crisis and deteriorating public services, which have shifted the public’s focus away from climate and environmental concerns.
Maintaining public support for net zero policies is crucial for the government to meet its climate targets. For example, reducing carbon emissions from home heating systems is essential for Scotland’s climate goals. However, achieving this transition to ‘clean’ heating systems like heat pumps or heat networks presents significant challenges, including slow progress and low uptake of government incentives.
Addressing Challenges in Implementing Net Zero Policies
To overcome the challenges associated with implementing net zero policies and maintaining public support, several key strategies can be employed. Firstly, it is essential to reassure the public about the convenience of making changes. Providing adequate support and clear communication about the benefits of transitioning to cleaner energy sources can help alleviate concerns about potential disruptions or inconveniences.
Emphasizing the financial benefits of adopting net zero policies can also help garner public support. Highlighting how changes can lead to cost savings for individuals, especially in light of increases in energy prices and means-tested winter fuel payments, can make these policies more appealing to the public. Demonstrating that alternative heating systems have lower running costs than traditional gas boilers can incentivize individuals to make the switch.
Lastly, clear messaging about available options, their personal impacts, and how to access them is crucial for successful implementation of net zero policies. Home energy efficiency and heating solutions can be complex topics, so simplifying the information and making viable alternatives easily accessible to the public is essential. Engaging openly with concerns about costs and addressing any technical barriers can help facilitate the transition to cleaner energy sources.
In conclusion, while public support for net zero policies remains strong, there are challenges that need to be addressed to ensure successful implementation. By focusing on convenience, financial benefits, and clear communication, the Scottish Government can effectively navigate these challenges and deliver on its commitment to achieving net zero emissions.