National Library surpasses energy targets

The National Library of Scotland has exceeded the Scottish Government’s 2020 climate change targets, and its actions have been recognised with a gold pledge award from Zero Waste Scotland.

The Government set the targets in 2009, and since then, the Library has reduced its carbon emissions by 62% – 20% more than the 42% target. Energy use has been cut by 52%, far surpassing the 40% target.

Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Roseanna Cunningham said:

“I wish the National Library of Scotland continued success in their carbon reduction efforts, and for their on-going support in contributing to Scotland’s ambitions in this area.

“The Climate Change Bill is in direct response to the Paris Agreement and will help to ensure that Scotland achieves carbon neutrality by 2050.

“Public bodies have an important role to play in the delivery of our climate change ambitions, and organisations such as the National Library of Scotland can be exemplars, leading the way and inspiring others across Scotland to follow.”

National Librarian and Chief Executive Dr John Scally said:

“We’re proud to lead the way in energy efficiency and help our partners, Zero Waste Scotland, to encourage greater savings across public sector.

“While it’s important for us as a national institution to meet these targets, it’s also vital work for the environment. Our work in reducing emissions and energy use has also led us to make financial savings. It’s a double win for us.”

Marissa Lippiatt, Head of Resource Efficiency, Zero Waste Scotland, said:

“The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 sets ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions by 42 per cent by 2020, and earlier this year announced a new target of 66 per cent reduction by 2032. That’s why it’s fantastic to see that the National Library has already surpassed their goal. They have done an amazing job of putting a realistic and measurable plan in place that involved everyone in the organisation.

“All public bodies in Scotland have a responsibility to help Scotland meet these targets and Zero Waste Scotland can help. The first step is creating a baseline before targets can be set and plans put in place – all the tools to do this can be found at zerowastescotland.org.uk.

“We would be delighted to welcome more organisations in the private, public and third sectors to become Resource Efficiency Ambassadors – showing leadership in promoting the long-term sustainability of Scottish businesses.”

To achieve the targets, the Library established a set of carbon initiatives and put a programme of work in place involving all staff. This included replacing infrastructure throughout its buildings with more energy-efficient equipment, replacing all lighting with LED across the estate, and ensuring all staff were aware of energy use and used only what was required.