Zero Carbon Bus Tour Event – Outcomes

In October 2021, Perth was one of the flagship stops of the Zero Carbon Bus Tour, a series of events showcasing the amazing efforts being undertaken – both locally and globally – to aid in the transition to a net zero carbon economy.

The event aimed to bring together a range of businesses to illuminate notable initiatives taking place in the region, and an objective to foster further connections within the community in support of the Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan, established in 2019.

Perth & Kinross Council assembled a group of captivating speakers to provide insight and showcase actions local businesses are taking to reduce emissions and reach net zero targets. The audience, predominantly made up of regional stakeholders - small businesses, action groups and council staff - were welcomed by the Provost of Perth & Kinross Council, Dennis Melloy, and were provided with the opportunity to learn from the following organisations: Aviva, SSE, Stagecoach, Binn Eco Innovation Park and Highland Spring.

Each of the presentations explored a variety of initiatives that these organisations are undertaking as part of their sustainability journeys. The audience was privy to these companies’ learnings - the challenges of implementing decarbonisation measures, as well as the wins - all hugely helpful in developing their own carbon reduction plans and establishing net zero targets. It was particularly useful hearing from locally based organisations/companies operating in and around Perth. One of the main takeaways was the repeated emphasis on the importance of close collaboration with stakeholders – local and national government, industry groups, LEPs, even supply chains in order to facilitate change. Attendees also benefited from Q+A’s and thoughtful discussions during the session, as well as the opportunity to network during the lunch at the conclusion of the event.

We were witness to a number of locals admiring and photographing the Carbon Battle Bus over the course of the day. A photo-shoot beside the bus also enabled attendees to further promote the event and its outcomes on social media. Overall, the response from the audience was incredibly positive, demonstrating the balance and content of the day was on point and of real interest to the attendees.