The Scottish Parliament is inviting people across Scotland to share their views on the Scottish Government’s draft Climate Change Plan which sets out how the country aims to cut emissions between 2026 and 2040.
Holyrood is calling for responses from individuals, community groups and organisations by 25 January 2026.
The draft plan outlines the steps the Scottish Government intends to take to meet emission reduction targets across key sectors as Scotland works towards becoming a net zero nation by 2045.
Holyrood’s Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee will lead the cross parliamentary scrutiny of the plan during a 120 day examination period.
Committee Convener Edward Mountain MSP said the scale of the challenge means it is vital that people across Scotland feel able to contribute their thoughts and concerns.
“Climate change affects us all, so it’s crucial that the voices of the people of Scotland are heard on this pivotal local, national and global issue.”
“The Scottish Parliament is now scrutinising the Plan, and this is your chance to get involved to tell us what you think should be done to improve it.”
“Do the proposals make clear the changes we all need to make in our lives to help Scotland reach its net zero targets?
“Is the approach being taken transparent, so that we can see where progress is being made?
“Is there enough detail?
“Only credible and transparent policies, with public buy in, will drive the emissions reductions needed to secure Scotland’s success.”
The scrutiny process will cover a wide range of areas including residential and public buildings, transport, waste, energy supply, agriculture, forestry, nature, biodiversity, land use and marine policy.
Committees will now begin formal evidence sessions, outreach and visits ahead of publishing their findings by 5 March 2026.
The Scottish Government has said it will publish its final Climate Change Plan before Parliament dissolves for the 2026 election.
The Parliament has also published information to help people understand the draft plan including a SPICe Hub with analysis and a Climate Change Plan blog.
In 2024, the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee convened a People’s Panel made up of 25 people selected from across Scotland to discuss policy development and explore how government decisions affect communities.
The consultation now taking place uses the four themes identified by the People’s Panel which are participatory and community led solutions, transparency and accountability in climate action, accessible and relatable climate policy for everyone and support for households to reach net zero.
A call for views held over the summer invited feedback from members of the public, experts and stakeholders on what should be included in the new plan and the responses have been grouped and published by topic.
The Scottish Government is running its own consultation on the plan which means people can choose to respond to Holyrood, the Government or both.
Holyrood says the views gathered through the parliamentary consultation will play a central role as MSPs examine the draft plan during the coming months.
