More than 150 islanders came together in-person and online last week for the Outer Hebrides Climate Hub’s second annual conference, OH-COP2, held at An Lanntair, Stornoway. The gathering brought together community members, schools, businesses and local leaders to share ideas and take action on the climate emergency.
“We must plan, prepare and work together”
Opening the conference, Cllr Paul Steele, Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, warned of the urgency of the climate crisis:
“The impacts of climate change are already being felt across our islands, and they’re only expected to intensify. We must plan, prepare and work together to build resilience.”
Cllr Paul Steele
The event also received messages of support from the Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, who praised islanders for helping deliver “a sustainable and climate-resilient future,” and from HRH The Lord of The Isles, Prince William, who highlighted “the need to combat climate change – recognising that the Earth is at a tipping point and the moment to act is now.”
Highlights from OH-COP2
Conference sessions covered a wide range of local and national perspectives:
How businesses across the islands are embedding sustainability in their practices
The role of crofting, food, and local resilience
Preparing communities for climate threats such as coastal erosion and extreme weather
Expert input from local authority representatives, community groups, researchers, energy specialists, and national figures such as Chris Stark, Head of the UK’s Mission for Clean Power by 2030
The conference also shone a spotlight on young people and community groups through the Climate Cup Awards.
Projects recognised included school-led beach cleans, biodiversity studies, and cycling initiatives. Seven island schools received awards, alongside groups such as North Harris Trust, HebCelt Festival, and the Isle of Barra and Vatersay Science Festival, for their commitment to sustainability.
Sgoil An Rubha receiving a Climate Cup for their sustainability efforts
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on OH-COP2, Brian Whitington, CEO of Climate Hebrides, said:
“OH-COP2 represented the unique opportunity for the Outer Hebrides to showcase innovation, share knowledge, and lead the way in climate action across our island chain. As we move towards the next stage for the Community Planning Partnership Climate Change Group, involving people from all walks of life and communities across the Outer Hebrides, it is essential that we press on together as islanders.”
Brian Whitington Climate Hebrides CEO presenting at OHCOP2
Building Resilience Together
Funded by the Scottish Government, the Outer Hebrides Climate Hub supports islanders to adapt, innovate, and build resilience in the face of climate change. With almost 300 members across the islands – including individuals, businesses, and community groups – the Hub is at the heart of a growing movement for local climate action.
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