CXC Newsletter: January 2025
ClimateXChange
We're Scotland's centre of expertise on climate change, connecting research and policy.
Our first LinkedIn newsletter of 2025 features news on a podcast episode on food systems, four newly published reports and an impact case study on reducing car use.
1. Transforming food systems fairly
In our latest podcast episode, we chat with Zarina Ahmad, a climate communicator, member of the ClimateXChange Directorate and PhD researcher at the University of Manchester’s Sustainable Consumption Institute, about transforming food systems fairly.
Zarina discusses rethinking all aspects of food production and consumption in ways that are fairer for everyone. This includes producing energy from food waste, affordable veg boxes and considering farmers as civil servants.
2. Building evidence on how to reduce car use
The Scottish Government aims to reduce the number of car kilometres by 20% by 2030, compared to 2019.
Findings from three studies commissioned by CXC have informed the development of an updated car use reduction route map, and have provided evidence to inform discussions at local and national levels.
3. Using metered energy consumption data on Scottish EPCs
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) provide current and potential homeowners and tenants information on the energy efficiency of homes.
This report explores evidence and arguments for and against the inclusion of metered energy consumption data in EPCs and outlines two ways in which this data could be useful for occupants and potential occupants to make informed decisions.
4. A fair distribution of costs and benefits in Scotland’s Just Transition
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This report presents findings from deliberative public engagement, which gathered public views on how to ensure the transition to net zero is fair for all.
This included views on specific policy options for three sectors: transport, built environment and land and agriculture.
5. Carbon Calculator for wind farms on Scottish peatlands
The Scottish Government’s Carbon Calculator for wind farms on peatlands was developed in 2008 and last updated in 2014.
Considering recent policy updates and advancements in science, our latest report recommends the Carbon Calculator should be updated.
6. Economic potential of energy crops
Energy crops have the potential to generate income for farmers and land managers in Scotland, according to this report.
The most economically and environmentally advantageous approach is likely to be site-specific and determined by local circumstances.
That's all for now - make sure to subscribe to get next month's update on LinkedIn.
You can also view and subscribe to our longer emailed newsletter, which includes a selection of external developments and opportunities relevant to climate change research and policy in the Scottish context. ClimateXChange newsletter
ClimateXChange is Scotland's centre of expertise on climate change. We provide a research, advice and analysis service to policy teams and associated public agencies. We are funded by the Scottish Government.