Since 2019, over 100 people from the Home Energy Scotland network have participated in Climate Emergency Training, including frontline advisors from all areas of the service.

Home Energy Scotland’s expert advisors offer free, impartial advice on installing energy efficiency measures such as low and zero-emissions heating systems, active travel and sustainable transport options, energy-saving behaviour change, cutting water waste and more, with the aim of tackling climate change and addressing fuel poverty.

The training sessions explored the science and impacts of climate change and highlighted practical steps to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Home Energy Scotland staff began by reviewing their own carbon footprint. They also learnt new constructive approaches for discussing the climate emergency with householders and helping them make the connections between saving energy, money on their energy bills and reducing the carbon emissions that cause climate change.

Participants were asked to select both an individual and a group action to reduce carbon emissions, demonstrating their learning and understanding of carbon emission sources and solutions. Those who pass will receive a Carbon Literate accreditation.

Harry Mayers, head of Home Energy Scotland, said: “Our advisors, specialists and support teams already do an incredible job helping people across Scotland to reduce their energy use and keep warm at home. This training consolidates their knowledge in the context of carbon saving and gives them assurance to relate this advice to tackling climate change.

“We recognise the vital importance of this training and are excited to continue our partnership with Keep Scotland Beautiful to develop our future capacity to deliver accredited Climate Emergency Training in-house.”

Catherine Gee, deputy chief executive for Keep Scotland Beautiful, added: “We are delighted to have developed bespoke Climate Emergency Training for Home Energy Scotland.

“The climate crisis and Scotland’s journey to net zero is going to require all of us to develop new skills and knowledge, so we are extremely pleased that so many Home Energy Scotland staff have participated in this training and can apply it to their roles.

“We look forward to working with Home Energy Scotland further and helping them embed Climate Emergency Training in their operations.”