Research published by the think tank Future Economy Scotland shows that between 2017 and 2019, the richest 5% of households in Scotland contributed 4.1 times more CO2 than the poorest 5% of households.

The analysis, undertaken in partnership with Dr Anne Owen of the University of Leeds, also looks at CO2 emissions associated with the consumption of different goods and services. It finds that: 

Commenting, Future Economy Scotland Co-Director Laurie Macfarlane, said:

"This research is the first of its kind in Scotland, and it shows the huge disparity in the carbon footprints of high and low income households. In areas such as transport and hospitality, high-income households are consuming more than ten times more carbon than low-income households. 

"Climate change and inequality are inherently linked. Those on higher incomes contribute disproportionately to climate breakdown, while those on lower incomes are disproportionately impacted by it.

"The Scottish Government has committed to delivering a just transition to net zero by 2045. Despite some progress, policymakers must take bold steps to accelerate decarbonisation across the economy – particularly in sectors such as transport, housing and industry. 

"Given the clear link between household incomes and carbon footprints, it is essential that the costs of decarbonisation are shared in a way that is fair and just. Future Economy Scotland will be doing more work on this in the months ahead as part of our just transition project."

Ends

[1] The report containing the full findings and methodology can be found here.

[2] Future Economy Scotland is a new non-partisan think tank that aims to create a new economy that is democratic, sustainable and just. The organisation does not have a formal stance on Scotland’s constitutional future, and is not aligned to any political party or any politician. The organisation is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee operating with charitable principles. For more information, visit: www.futureeconomy.scot

[2] To book an interview with a spokesperson, or for any other questions, please contact press@futureeconomy.scot or call 0790910789

[3] The Scottish Government has set out a bold ambition to deliver a just transition to net zero by 2045. Over the next two years, Future Economy Scotland is undertaking a major research project that aims to develop bold but credible policies to achieve this goal. 

[4] The Herald on Sunday covered an exclusive of the new data on 8th October. A link to the article can be found here.