First Outer Hebrides Climate Conference Sparks Action and Awareness 

OH-COP1 calls for urgent climate action across the Western Isles 

On Tuesday, 24th September, the Outer Hebrides witnessed a landmark moment in its fight against climate change with the inaugural Outer Hebrides Climate Conference (OH-COP1), organised by Climate Hebrides and the Outer Hebrides Climate Hub. This was the largest climate-focused event ever held in the islands, bringing together over 80 in-person attendees at An Lanntair and 35 more via livestream. 

OH-COP1 offered a platform for inspiring and educational presentations addressing the specific climate issues faced by island communities, in which young voices played a leading role throughout the day. In the opening session, representatives from the Young Islanders Network, the Scottish Youth Parliament, the Youth Local Action Group, and UHI made an impassioned case for urgent climate action and education, setting the scene for the rest of the conference. 

Following this, experts from The Met Office, the Scottish Government, and Climate Hebrides addressed the urgent climate risks faced by the islands, including flooding, coastal erosion and infrastructural threats. Several speakers highlighted the Our Climate Story project (OCS) in these discussions – a digital mapping tool that captures the lived, climate experiences of local residents. With hundreds of submissions detailing climate impacts across the islands, OCS offers powerful insights into how climate change is already affecting local communities.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious, locally sourced lunch provided by The Niseach Chef before diving into a series of presentations from NatureScot, NHS Western Isles, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Hebridean Housing Partnership, and the Open University. Various innovative projects were shared with the audience, all of which aimed to make the Outer Hebrides more sustainable for people and the environment. 

In the afternoon session, the Peatlands Restoration team (from the Carloway Estate), Islands Centre for Net Zero and Climate Hebrides presented potential projects to decarbonize the islands, including the restoration of peatlands and emissions reduction. The conference concluded with a dynamic panel discussion on how to implement these new projects and develop of a comprehensive adaptation plan for the Outer Hebrides—work that is already underway. 

Reflecting on the success of OH-COP1, Brian Whitington, Chief Executive of Climate Hebrides and the Outer Hebrides Climate Hub, expressed his enthusiasm: 

“OH-COP1 successfully fostered communication, collaboration, and innovative ideas to combat climate change on our islands. Once again, it was the young people who led the charge, demanding the urgent action our communities need. Their voices resonated throughout the day, shaping the direction of our discussions.” 

Looking ahead, Brian added: “We’re developing plans for action from the conference, already planning for OH-COP2, and we encourage everyone to join the Outer Hebrides Climate Hub to be part of this ongoing movement for change.” 

As the Outer Hebrides continues to face the challenges posed by climate change, OH-COP1 has ignited a renewed sense of purpose and collaboration across the islands. The event highlighted the importance of collective action, showcasing the potential of community-driven solutions. As momentum builds, the road ahead is clear: the islands are not only ready to adapt, but to lead in the global fight against climate change. 

Join The Hub today to stay updated on all things OH-COP.