The ambitious target will require all homes across Scotland, whether owned or rented, to be energy efficient and for most households to have switched to renewable energy sources.

Scottish Housing Day provides an opportunity for organisations, tenants, residents and communities to talk about the impact of the climate emergency and what needs to be done locally and nationally to make Scotland a world leader in tackling climate change. Organisations are also encouraged to signpost tenants and residents to sources of information, advice and support.

You can take part by signing up as a supporter online, writing a blog, hosting an event or sharing thoughts, stories and pictures through social media using the hashtag #ScottishHousingDay. There are plenty of resources online to help you get involved.

You can also join special guest speaker Shona Robison MSP, cabinet secretary for social justice, housing and local government at an online event on 15 September 14:00 – 15:30 to hear about Scottish Government priorities for energy efficiency and renewables.

Speaking about Scottish Housing Day, Ms Robison said: “I am pleased to be taking part in this year’s Scottish Housing Day. With Glasgow set to host COP 26 in a matter of weeks, Scottish Housing Day is an opportunity to highlight the ways in which the housing sector can help meet our ambitious target of ending Scotland’s contribution to climate change by 2045.

“The Scottish Government is committed to making Scotland’s housing more energy-efficient and responsive to the challenges of climate change and the transition to net zero, ensuring that we also reach our statutory fuel poverty targets. We are taking action to make sure new homes are fit for the future, with zero emissions heating systems and that we adapt and retrofit existing homes so that the people who live in them can benefit from improved energy efficiency and decarbonised heating, which will in turn help drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth.”

Ashley Campbell, policy and practice manager at CIH Scotland, said: “Everyone has a role to play in tackling climate change and while we face some big changes in how we use energy in our homes, small actions can also make a big difference. We’d like to see as many people as possible taking part in Scottish Housing Day this year and talking about the importance of taking action against climate change now. Whether that’s through installing energy efficiency measures in homes, remembering to switch off lights and appliances or reducing waste through community sharing projects – big or small, we want to hear what you are doing to tackle the climate emergency!”

You can register to attend the free online event for Scottish Housing Day on the CIH website – book your place now.