Monday 5 July 2021

Scottish wheel of fortune?

Scottish Canals’ pledge to reach net zero by 2030 has been boosted by a £250,000 investment into the Falkirk Wheel to make it more sustainable.

The Public Body announced its green funding today, installing 85 new solar panels, which it claims will save 5.5 tonnes of carbon emissions per year. In addition to the solar panels, heat pumps will be installed on the attraction with sub-metering to track renewable energy generation in real time.

As well as its investment, Scottish Canals has begun its transition to a fully electric fleet – set to save 15 tonnes of carbon emissions in the first year alone.

In 2023 Scottish Canals will be opening a new low carbon canal centre of excellence in Falkirk.

Catherine Topley, CEO, commented: “Our canals were once the lifeline of the industrial revolution transporting coal and other materials to power factories and industries in cities. Now Scottish Canals are at the forefront of the green revolution. Our ambition is matched only by our determination to deliver a cleaner, greener future than that which we inherited.

“Our canals were one of the very first sustainable transport networks in the country, using only 20% of the energy required to travel on land. 250 years on from their creation they remain a beacon for sustainable transport, tourism and economic growth on land and water.

“Our journey to net zero is practical and collaborative, we are working with our partners to create change within communities where carbon reduction, nature-based solutions and health benefits are at the forefront of our plans and not in hindsight.”