‘Zero carbon buildings’ role for Scottish Greens co-leader

MINISTERIAL responsibility, within the Scottish Government, for ‘zero carbon buildings’ has been awarded to one of two Scottish Greens MSPs.

Patrick Harvie, co-leader of the Scottish Green Party, also has been given responsibility for ‘active travel’ and tenants’ rights. Along with fellow co-leader, Lorna Slater MSP, he was brought into government following a deal struck between the SNP-led government and the Greens, to help ensure a solid working majority in the Scottish Parliament.

At the recent Scottish Parliament elections, in May, the SNP fell just short of an outright majority.

Lorna Slater will take on the role of Minister for Green Skills, Circular Economy and Biodiversity.

Says a Scottish Government announcement (here): “Mr Harvie’s responsibilities will include driving policy changes that shift Scotland away from reliance on high carbon modes of transport and heating and towards greener alternatives – essential as part of the push towards a net zero economy by 2045.

“Ensuring fairness during that transformation will also be key, and Mr Harvie will lead on delivering a new deal for tenants, and ensuring building standards are fit for purpose.”

It adds: “Ms Slater will drive a Green Industrial Strategy, helping people access training and opportunities as part of a net zero Scotland, and ensuring our economy is supported through a just transition to net zero.

“Supporting biodiversity and protecting our national parks and natural heritage will also form part of Ms Slater’s role.”

Pictured: Scottish Parliament, Picture credit: Place Design Scotland