Climate champions become carbon literacy experts

One of the key priorities of the Council Plan is to tackle climate change and support the Council to become a net zero local authority by 2030.

Across our services, a number of colleagues have been stepping up to support our sustainability efforts via the Council’s Climate Champions network.

The volunteering opportunity is for climate-conscious colleagues who want to spread their knowledge and help others to become more environmentally responsible.

Leading the group, Robert Graham, Energy Awareness Officer shares: “In short, Climate Champions are the living extension of the Sustainability team’s mission to drive awareness, enable action and foster a community built on shared environmental responsibility.”

Better, yet, our Climate Champions have got something to celebrate…

In December, 14 members of the Sustainability team and Climate Champions from across North Ayrshire Council successfully completed Carbon Literacy Training and achieved official accreditation from the Carbon Literacy Trust.

The Carbon Literacy Trust is a charitable organisation that aims to “advance the education of the public in the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural environment.”

After an inspiring day of learning, the Climate (and Carbon Literacy) Champions each made two pledges – one personal and one as a group – to help reduce carbon emissions.

The pledges included:

• switching off the power supply to the mains socket of workstations every evening
• reviewing the teams filing structure to reduce server energy demands
• cutting down on car use and using public transport and walking instead
• sharing sustainability tips and eco actions with colleagues
• setting up a climate group in schools to support pupils who may be anxious about climate change

These pledges were assessed and approved by the Carbon Literacy Trust and certificates have now been awarded to the colleagues who are showing real commitment to making a difference.

Certificates have now been awarded, and our champions are ready to spread the word.

Feedback from the training was also great with school counsellor Lucy Watkins sharing: “the Carbon Literacy Training was thoroughly enjoyable and informative.”

Lifelong Learning Assistant, Heather McNaught also shared: "The Carbon Literacy Trust training was very thought provoking and the pledge assignment at the end has made me look at my habits carefully and hopefully make changes for the better!"

Even more good news! Carbon Literacy training is available every month throughout the year, with in-person sessions to fit your diary. Read the Carbon Literacy Training Staff News article for sign-up details and join us in building a more sustainable future.

Huge congratulations to all our colleagues on this fantastic achievement – together you are all making a real difference!

What it means to be a Climate Champion

As a Climate Champion, you’ll play a vital role in supporting sustainability efforts across North Ayrshire. You’ll be encouraged to:

• actively support local sustainability and climate action initiatives
• share your ideas, get involved in community projects, and inspire others to take action
• develop and communicate your passion for climate change and sustainability with colleagues and the wider community

Time commitment and involvement:

• flexible involvement that fits around your existing schedule
• opportunities to contribute online or in person at local events and initiatives Why It Matters

Why it Matters

By becoming a Climate Champion, you’ll directly contribute to the Sustainable North Ayrshire Strategy (2024–2027) and be:

• educating and supporting your team and local communities
• promoting sustainable initiatives and helping to drive behaviour change
• acting as a key contact for feedback, helping shape ongoing development
• supporting North Ayrshire’s Biodiversity and Nature Restoration Plans by encouraging local engagement and using your knowledge to help restore and protect nature.

Benefits of Joining:

• gain valuable experience and skills, including the opportunity to become Carbon Literate, certified by the Carbon Literacy Trust
• join a growing community of environmental advocates working for positive change
• be recognised for your contributions to sustainability and climate action

How to Get Involved:

It’s easy to sign up – simply contact the Council’s Sustainability Team. Email us at Energy and Sustainability to express your interest, request more information, or join the mailing list. Together, we can make a real difference for North Ayrshire and our planet.