Assynt plans

Leaving Lochinver as the sun crept over the snow capped mountains and the day broke was stunning. The journey was peaceful, swift and smooth – I was the only passenger on the bus. We followed the school bus ( with spaces on it) and I admired the scenery whilst pondering the poor use of resources – a warm bus shared with school children would not have been a hardship - for me anyway.

I have just returned from meeting people in Lochinver. Transport was one of the issues raised by the people of Assynt during discussions about their bid to the Climate Challenge Fund. People are aware that the resources are not always used to the best.

It is hoped through the Climate Challenge Fund to; employ someone locally to support an Energy Audit and insulation programme; look at the feasibility for renewable energy for clusters of housing; and ways to reduce food miles including processing more food locally.

The other issue raised was how to maximise a natural carbon neutral resource on their door step - wood.

Most of the communities that JMT is involved with have at least some wood available to them. Planning now for the future means planting trees that can then be coppiced thus providing a long term sustainable source of fuel. 

One issue to consider is plans contained in the Climate Change Bill to lease out 25% of the forest estate to private investors.  If you are concerned about this write to liz.kirk@forestry.gsi.gov.uk BEFORE 27th Jan 2009 or sign the petition here

Meanwhile – congratulations to the communities that have successfully bid for Climate Challenge Funds through Community Energy Scotland's Powerdown initiative. They are Knoydart Foundation and Galson Community Trust.