That was the verdict of an exclusive consultation seminar to formally input into the Scottish Government’s discussion paper Towards a Low Carbon Economy for Scotland. Jointly hosted by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, CIFAL Findhorn and the Scottish Government, the prominent event which was held in Inverness on 18 June, provided an opportunity for high level response and influential feedback on proposals for the transition towards a low carbon economy.

John Swinney, MSP and Cabinet Secretary, Finance & Sustainable Growth started proceedings with an upbeat address to the specially invited delegates via video message. The ensuing debate, which focused on the ways in which Scotland can take a lead in securing the economic benefits of greener business, was facilitated by Willy Roe, Chairman, Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Colin Imrie, Deputy Director, Energy Markets Division and one of the leaders of the Scottish Government’s discussion paper spoke about potential and delivery. Delegates went on to discuss how they could collaborate better to take advantages of low carbon economy opportunities, and in particular how to increase the level of innovation, investment and skills.

Participants examined the vision and drivers of a low carbon Scottish economy and what significant additional opportunities offered the greatest economic potential regionally, nationally and globally. Of local interest was a discussion on the possibility of a Highlands and Islands Low Carbon Network to facilitate the sharing and dissemination of knowledge to stimulate a low carbon economic growth in the region.

The specially invited audience comprised a cross-section of participants from local authorities, public sector organisations, research and educational establishments including director level delegates from Highland Council, The Moray Council, VisitScotland, Highlands & Islands Partnership Programme, Carbon Disclosure Project, Environmental Research Institute and DTA Scotland. Private industry and community businesses were represented by companies such as CBI Scotland, Stagecoach, BRE, Sleat Community Trust and Transition Black Isle.