In 2025, we are likely experiencing one of the hottest years on record. This trend continues a worrying pattern—the last decade has seen all the hottest years in history. A key driver of this warming? Our reliance on fossil fuels.
This increase in temperature brings severe weather: blizzards, tornadoes, floods, droughts, heatwaves, wildfires, and tropical storms. Scotland and the UK are feeling the effects, too. A prolonged dry spell has led to water shortages and the worst harvests some farmers have ever faced. Wildfires in places like Dava and Carrbridge are devastating.
Globally, the Arctic ice is melting at an alarming rate. It’s now at its lowest level ever recorded, indicating broader implications for the planet.
Despite clear evidence of climate change, misinformation is rampant. The political landscape remains deeply divided on how to tackle these pressing issues.
Financially, many households are struggling. Rising energy bills are pushing more people into fuel poverty. The main culprit? Fluctuating global oil and gas prices. Meanwhile, jobs in Scotland’s workforce are at risk, particularly in the oil and gas sector. Reports indicate that around 13,000 jobs tied to this industry were lost last year alone, with significant closures like that of the Grangemouth refinery and the Mossmorran petrochemical plant in Fife.
The government has pledged £120 million to support operations at Grangemouth, but criticism remains about the lack of substantial job opportunities in green sectors.
Over the past year, there have been mixed signals regarding emissions reduction. The UK Government’s decision to ban new oil and gas exploration has been welcomed by environmental activists. Retaining the windfall tax on oil profits, influenced by geopolitical events like the Ukraine conflict, is another positive step.
However, not all news is encouraging. In Scotland, the Heat in Buildings Bill has been put on hold, sparking frustration. Also, the once-promising goal to cut car usage by 20% by 2030 has been officially scrapped.
Globally, some progress is being made. A landmark ruling from the International Court of Justice asserts that countries must take action on climate change, allowing for potential legal action against inaction. Additionally, renewable energy sources like wind and solar are now leading in electricity generation, surpassing coal for the first time.
As we look towards the new year, what should be done? A coalition of over 70 groups in Scotland, Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS), suggests five key actions for 2026:
- Develop a strong Climate Change Plan to benefit both people and the planet.
- Promote community-owned renewable energy to ensure local benefits.
- Cancel plans for new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea and support workers transitioning to green jobs.
- Introduce a tax on private jets to curb pollution from luxury flights.
- Secure climate justice funding for developing countries severely affected by climate change.
With the upcoming Holyrood elections in spring, voters will be keenly watching how political parties address these concerns. Many current representatives are stepping down, leading to a wave of new politicians who will need to engage with climate issues head-on.
As Dr. Mike Robinson of SCCS puts it, “We all want a world that is safe, healthy, and fair.” It’s vital to act now to create a brighter future for everyone.
For more insights, check out [the latest climate report by the UN](https://www.un.org/en/climatechange).
