To achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, Scotland needs to support and encourage communities to make transformational change to deliver a just transition.
In response to a review of the Climate Challenge Fund programme, the Scottish Government launched the Climate Action Hub Programme. This programme aims to support the development of a network of regional hubs to support community climate action.
The Scottish Government commissioned Changeworks to research similar existing models of community climate action hubs in the UK and internationally. We explored a range of hub case studies from the rest of the UK and beyond and identified lessons that can be applied to the Climate Action Hub Programme in Scotland.
Research methods
- Desk-based research to identify example models of community climate action hubs
- Interviews with seven stakeholders from six climate hubs
- Qualitative analysis of the interviews
Read the full report below
Key findings
Approach and structure
Hubs are generally established from networks of people who have worked on local climate action projects and delivered by existing or new third sector organisations. They sometimes work with local authorities on specific projects. They tend not to have a specific strategic plan because they are led by the interests of the community.
Outcomes and aims
Hubs often collect data on carbon counting and other areas relevant to their overall aims. Methods for measuring impact should be proportionate to the scale of the project so they don’t impede delivery.
Successes
We identified several key factors for success for climate action hubs:
- Having a paid member of staff
- For hub networks, having a core team of staff who maintain regular contact with each hub to facilitate networking, knowledge sharing and effective use of resources
- Early engagement with the local community to align with local priorities
Challenges
We identified several common challenges for climate action hubs:
- Balancing a focus on the climate emergency with trying to engage members of the local community who are outside of the “climate bubble”
- Sometimes, projects are not fully aligned with hubs aims
- Staff need strong mediation skills to manage conflict between partners
- Funding is often short-term and project-based, making it difficult for climate action hubs to create a lasting programme with ongoing impact