Programme for Government: First Minister Humza Yousaf rapped over ‘deeply disappointing’ plans to tackle climate crisis

“We are seeing the devastating impacts of climate change, particularly on the world’s poorest, with increasing frequency,” First Minister Humza Yousaf said as he unveiled the document that sets out the actions to be taken in Scotland over the coming year and beyond.
By Ilona Amos
Published 6th Sep 2023, 04:55 BST
Updated 6th Sep 2023, 08:06 BST
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“This is the existential threat of our times and we have a moral duty to respond to the climate and nature crises. The stakes could not be higher.

“We do not underestimate what this change means for daily life, particularly during these tough times. However, this is the time for climate leadership, not for playing politics while the planet burns, and my Government will continue to show the leadership required.”

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Despite these words, the new Programme for Government, which comes following a series of missed annual climate targets, seems light on environmental action, especially considering the SNP’s power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens.

Opposition MSPs and campaigners have said it is just “more of the same” from “a continuity First Minister with a continuity agenda”.

One notable announcement was a potential ban on disposable vapes, which as well as posing a risk to health, particularly among young people, cannot be recycled and are creating a massive litter problem.

Another is a coming sector deal aimed at boosting expansion of onshore wind, with a promise to alter planning regulations to speed up consenting time, and implementation of a hydrogen action plan.