As the effects of climate change become increasingly apparent in Perth and Kinross and across Scotland and world, governments at all levels are developing plans to reduce emissions. The Scottish Government Committee on Climate Change has set a national target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, in line with the IPCC recommendation that warming does not exceed 1.5 degrees above preindustrial levels.

Taking the necessary comprehensive and urgent action on climate change will require Perth and Kinross Council to work in partnership with our communities, businesses and organisations at an unprecedented scale. Climate Commissions bring together people and organisations from the public, private and civic sectors who work collaboratively to help drive, guide, support and monitor climate action

SHIFT, the Perth and Kinross Climate Change Commission, was formed May 2022 and is an independent body set up to support efforts by local government, communities, businesses, charities and individuals to address the causes and impacts of global warming locally, and to accelerate and maximise the opportunities in our journey to tackle climate change and beyond.

Their immediate focus is the Perth and Kinross region, but they also have a vital role to play in collaborating with bodies with a similar purpose in the wider Tay Cities region, in Scotland and at a UK level, and internationally.

They aim to recruit and maintain a diverse Commission membership, which reflects our region’s local communities and businesses, and offers a voice to citizens of all ages and backgrounds.

Read more about SHIFT's purpose, approach and membership on their website.