Calum Watkins

No doubt aside from Coronavirus, the climate crisis is very much in the headlines thanks to significant efforts to increase climate literacy in schools, communities, workplaces and Government. But this is more than headlines, the tangible impacts of climate change are being felt around the world as the adverse effects of our human activities continue unabated. Negatives aside, Glasgow Community Energy are committed to empowering people from all walks of life to be engaged, informed and share what they learn with others in the hope that the collective action of many people can transform our communities and restore our planet.

So, what’s our role in this grand vision, and what can you do?

Our programme of outreach is very diverse, but we start with engaging with schools, where we have provided more than 15 solar energy workshops to date. Our hope is to encourage the next generation of climate conscious thinkers by exploring the nature of energy access in developing countries and how energy can be used to improve our lives. It’s wonderful to see young people questioning their understanding of the world through the hands-on sessions and passionately pursuing STEM subjects. We’re always looking for invites to more schools so do get in touch!

We have also participated in Climate Conversations (a government initiative to help communities grapple with the challenges of creating a more sustainable world) and hope to facilitate more this year.

Some of you will be aware of the upcoming COP26 (UN Climate Change Conference) in November this year which will be held in Glasgow. Glasgow Community Energy will be involved in the Year of Climate Action in the lead up to COP26, as we hope to educate and inspire others whilst encouraging local policy makers to champion environmental action. This year is highly significant as it marks a point at which societal pressure, political will and economic development need to align if we are to achieve the goals set out by the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement and meet new Net Zero Emissions targets. We’d encourage anyone to find out more about the COP26 and get involved!

Our climate crisis is an emergency, but it is not a quick fix. If we want to guarantee the welfare of generations to come, we need a sustained commitment, where everyone has a part to play.

Guest blog by Calum Watkins
Director, Glasgow Community Energy