The Highland Council's Climate Change Committee has welcomed progress across the Council's Net Zero Programme, including updates on waste and circular economy activity, planning, land use and the environment, and the implications of Scotland's Climate Change Plan 2026-2040 for Highland.
Chair of the Climate Change Committee, Cllr Kate Willis, said: "Addressing climate change requires action across all areas of Council activity. The updates considered by the Committee highlight the breadth of work being taken forward across the Net Zero Programme, from reducing waste and supporting resource efficiency to advancing nature recovery, sustainable development and preparing for a changing climate.
"A coordinated, programme-led approach helps ensure we can make progress towards our climate ambitions while delivering benefits for communities across Highland."
The Committee noted publication of Scotland's Climate Change Plan 2026-2040, which sets out Scotland's national approach to addressing climate change, including a stronger focus on delivery, adaptation, monitoring and a just transition. Many of the priorities within the Plan are consistent with the Council's Climate Change, Energy and Community Resilience Strategic Approach, approved by Council in March 2026, reinforcing the importance of a coordinated approach to climate change, energy transition and community resilience.
An update on waste and circular economy activity highlighted progress in reducing waste and improving resource efficiency across Council premises. Waste audits undertaken in schools have identified opportunities to divert around 75 tonnes of recyclable material annually from non-recyclable waste bins, while expanded food waste collections are planned for around 30 additional schools and a number of Council buildings during the 2026/27 academic year.
The update also highlighted initiatives to reduce the use of single-use packaging in schools and support more sustainable behaviours. At Kingussie High School, a pilot using reusable lunch containers has reduced the proportion of single-use packaging within the waste stream from 9% to 5%.
Members also noted the success of the Highland Reuse and Repair Fund, which has awarded £546,019 to 29 projects across Highland over two funding rounds, supporting initiatives that help reduce waste, promote reuse and repair, and contribute to a more circular economy. A third round of the Fund is now open for applications.
Progress was also reported across planning, land use and environmental priorities, including ongoing work to develop Nature Networks, the development of a Greenspace Biodiversity Management Strategy, and preparation of the next Highland Local Development Plan. Evidence informing the Plan highlights the importance of climate change mitigation and adaptation, nature recovery, energy efficiency and resilience in shaping future development across Highland.
Members also noted ongoing engagement with the Scottish Government regarding future funding arrangements for flood protection and coastal resilience activity, reflecting the increasing risks facing Highland communities.
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