Why engaging with citizens is key to a just and fair green transition

In this episode, Liam Middleton, Head of Critical Energy Infrastructure & Commercial Projects for the Scottish Government, talks to presenter and reporter Kait Borsay about using citizen input, investment and innovation to deliver its Just Transition plan. He also shares exciting examples of innovation from around the country and highlights the transformative potential of hydrogen technologies.

Joining the discussion is Philip Milne, Partner, Corporate Finance, Government & Transport, Ernst & Young LLP, based in Scotland. Philip sets out Scotland’s advantages, including natural renewable resources and a highly skilled workforce, and explains why oil and gas will remain a key component of its green transition.

Key takeaways:

• Co-designing an energy transition plan with citizens ⏤ particularly those in carbon-intensive industries ⏤ will expose the possible benefits, challenges and risks of moving to net zero.
• Huge public and private investment, plus a pivot on the part of business, will be needed to make the shift to renewables.
• Tapping into a country’s strengths, such as a skilled workforce in oil and gas or innovation in its rural regions, will help to attract inward investment and create new jobs in the green economy.

The series is also available to listen to on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music and Podbean.

If you’d like to read more, a full text transcript of this podcast is available. Read the transcript.