Perth and Kinross retains A rating for climate action

Perth and Kinross has secured its CDP A grade for climate action for the third consecutive year, strengthening its reputation as one of Scotland’s most sustainable and future-ready locations for investment, and reinforcing its position as one of the most attractive net zero investment locations in Scotland.

The international recognition places the region among a small number of global leaders delivering real progress on carbon reduction, climate adaptation and environmental governance. For businesses and investors, it is a clear signal that Perth and Kinross is not only committed to the transition to net zero, but is already creating the conditions for long-term, sustainable, economic growth.

This progress supports the ambitions set out in the Perth and Kinross Economic Strategy and Action Plan, including strengthening resilience, driving innovation and supporting inclusive growth across key growth sectors. Perth and Kinross is a proven leader in food and drink, tourism and the financial industries, while also building new Energy Transition opportunities as we look to the future.

Councillor Richard Watters, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Climate Change and Sustainability Committee, commented: “I am incredibly proud of the progress Perth and Kinross continues to make in tackling climate change and building a more sustainable future for our communities.

“Achieving an A grade from CDP for the third consecutive year reflects the commitment and hard work of our teams, our partners, and our residents.

“Over the past year, we have made meaningful strides — reducing our carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency in council homes, and launching the Climate Ready Tayside partnership to ensure a coordinated regional approach to climate adaptation.

“Our Nature Restoration Fund projects, school recycling initiatives, and the support provided to more than 1,600 households for home energy advice are all excellent examples of how local action delivers real benefits on the ground.

“There is still more to do, but this recognition reinforces that we are on the right path. Together, we will continue to build a Perth and Kinross that is resilient, climate ready, and focused on long-term sustainability.”

Turning climate leadership into economic opportunity 

Perth and Kinross is using climate action to drive competitiveness and reduce costs for both businesses and residents. A 16% year-on-year reduction in the Council’s own carbon footprint - alongside a new energy management system saving more than £100,000 - demonstrates how low-carbon investment is improving efficiency and supporting wider economic priorities.

For local companies, the transition to net zero is creating opportunities to innovate, increase productivity and access business support.

Building a climate-ready region 

Climate adaptation is being strengthened through the Climate Ready Tayside partnership, while locally the number of community resilience groups has almost doubled in the past year. This coordinated approach supports infrastructure and communities to remain productive and connected in the face of climate challenges.

Investment in schools through recycling infrastructure and energy efficiency programmes is also helping to embed behaviours and awareness that support long-term sustainability and future skills and workforce development.

At the same time, targeted support for households is reducing energy bills and improving housing quality, helping to attract and retain the workforce that growing sectors depend on, and nature-based projects are enhancing the natural assets that underpin the food and drink sector and tourism offer, supporting sustainable land use and long-term economic resilience.

Key areas of delivery over the past year include:

• More than 1,600 households supported with energy advice and efficiency improvements

• 31 businesses funded to reduce emissions and improve productivity

• 22 nature restoration projects strengthening biodiversity and natural capital

• A major expansion of community resilience groups across Perth and Kinross

• New recycling and energy-saving initiatives in schools

A strong signal for investors 

Maintaining CDP A-list status provides globally recognised validation of the region’s low-carbon credentials. More importantly, it demonstrates that Perth and Kinross is a location where climate action, economic growth and quality of life are being delivered together.

For companies seeking net zero investment opportunities in Perth and Kinross, the region offers a supportive public-private environment, strong natural assets, and a commitment to innovation and long-term sustainability — helping existing businesses to grow and attracting new investment into a resilient, future-focused economy.

www.pkclimateaction.co.uk