Scotland Loves Local Climate Town Award
Winner: Nairn Business Improvement District, Nairn Community and Arts Centre, Green Hive and Nairn Bowling Club
An alliance leading the charge towards net zero is blazing a trail for other towns to follow.
Nairn’s success in reducing their carbon footprint – and helping others to do the same – saw the community lift the Scotland Loves Local Climate Town Award.
The accolade recognises the work ongoing in response to the climate emergency and in forging a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future.
Judges said: “Nairn is a fantastic example of what teamwork can achieve.”
Nairn Business Improvement District (BID), Nairn Community and Arts Centre, Green Hive and Nairn Bowling Club have been on the frontline of the town’s drive towards net zero.
Together, they have taken action to show the difference that the likes of installing solar power, energy efficient windows and eliminating single-use plastics, as well as encouraging the use of electric vehicles makes. They are now supporting other local businesses to reduce their emissions.
Interviewed as part of the Scotland Loves Local Awards showcase, Nairn BID manager Lucy Harding said: “The example we are setting by improving the sustainability of this building is noticed by the whole community.
“The bowling club, community centre and Green Hive have all worked with Zero Waste Scotland to reduce their carbon footprint. The EV point here at the community centre is a really important resource for people with electric vehicles.”
On the wider impact of work to support the town, she added: “The things we have been able to achieve around Nairn this year have been stunning. We have put in new signposts, new maps, cycle paths and active travel.
“It has really enhanced the environment of Nairn to make it much more attractive for locals and visitors alike. Nairn is a great place to live, work and visit.”
Runners - Up
Greener Kirkcaldy: Since 2010, the organisation has helped its community to save more than 130,000 tonnes of carbon with initiatives including reducing energy use and waste and growing food. It says 40,000 people have taken part in its projects, with work including a community bike shop to encourage greener travel and improvements to green spaces.
LEAP, Greater Glasgow: The charity provides befriending services, a free handyperson service, activities to people aged 50 and over. It also operates clothing swap shop boutiques to extend the life of clothing and stop them going to landfill. Revolve Recycle is said to be unique in reducing waste while promoting swapping, sharing, mending and making. Its work involves operating three swap shops as well as other initiatives.
Climate Town was sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland and Collective Architecture
