Ending our dependency on fossil fuels is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build a fairer and more equal Scotland.

The Scottish Government has set demanding climate and energy targets, but plans to deliver them are not transformative enough.

Much of our progress in reducing emissions has been as a result of de-industrialisation, and policies to deliver the zero-carbon economy have failed to realise the full potential of decent work in Scotland. Meanwhile, job losses as a result of low oil prices are hurting workers and communities in the North East.

If the transition to a low carbon economy is left to market forces, we risk a repeat of the devastating social dislocation and high unemployment experienced as a result of de-industrialisation and coal mine closures.

Joint Statement on Just Transition

That’s why we are working with our partners – Scottish Trade Union Congress, Communication Workers Union Scotland, Public and Commercial Services Union Scotland, Unite Scotland, Unison Scotland, University and College Union Scotland, WWF Scotland – on industrial policies that can create a Just Transition to a Low Carbon Economy in Scotland.

We have prepared a Joint Statement calling for a Just Transition in Scotland. The Statement voices our shared concern that plans to tackle climate change have been too slow and not ambitious enough, and presses the Scottish Government for bold measures.

The Joint Statement is open to unions and civil society organisations to sign up and support.