About Us

Who are we?

The Midlothian Climate Action Network began with a simple idea: that local communities should be at the heart of responding to the climate and nature crises. Founded by local groups who wanted to support each other and do more together, MCAN has since grown into a diverse coalition of 50 community organisations across the region.

To support this growing network, the Midlothian Climate Action Hub was established, hosted by Midlothian Community Action. With funding from the Scottish Government, the Hub provides practical support, coordination and resources to a network made up of people and groups who bring local knowledge, passion and energy.

Midlothian faces unique challenges. As the fastest growing region in Scotland, pressure from development, infrastructure and population growth risks further loss of local nature and rising emissions. But we also see opportunities for stronger communities and real potential for action.

2025-06 Community Meal (7)

Together, we aim to create fairer, more sustainable and resilient communities across Midlothian, led by people who know and care about the places they live.

What We Do

The Hub and Network work together to support and grow community-led climate action across Midlothian. Here’s how:

We believe that real change happens from the ground up. Whether it’s restoring natural habitats, creating community gardens, reducing waste, or exploring local renewable energy, we support and empower communities to take climate action in ways that matter to them.

We focus on four core areas shaped by our members:

Part of a Bigger Picture

We are proud to be part of a national network of 24 regional Climate Action Hubs, covering every corner of Scotland.

Funded by the Scottish Government, this programme ensures every community urban or rural can access place-based support to help navigate the transition to a climate-ready future.

The hubs bring together local knowledge, national expertise and ensure communities have a voice in shaping local and national climate policy and action 

This joined-up, regional approach ensures no community is left behind in the transition. The work we do here in Midlothian is part of a bigger, national effort to create a climate-ready Scotland that is fair, inclusive and community-led.

Meet The Team

Abi Wardlaw (She/Her)

Hub Manager

Abi comes to the role from our host organisation, Midlothian Community Action, where she led the Capacity Development and Communication team. Previously, she has worked in international development overseeing projects in a variety of countries, as well as working on Disaster Management and Disaster Risk Reduction. 
Email Abi

Bruno Santos (He/Him)

Community Engagement Officer
Energy & Heat Reuse, Share & Repair
Bruno joins the team from Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, where he coordinated the Climate Fringe platform and the Scotland-wide community-led Climate Fringe Festival. He is currently the Logistics officer for the Edinburgh Climate Festival and has been active in various projects around migrant rights, food justice and climate action in the past.
Email Bruno

Cory MacCormack (He/Him)

Community Engagement Officer
Biodiversity Food
Cory joins the team having recently completed his ecology and environmental science degree. He has previously worked for SOS UK, building climate action in schools. He comes from a background of community activism, bringing a passion for community - led action to the role.
Email Cory

Our Steering Group

Our Hub is guided by a Steering Group that provides strategic direction and advice on our work. Our Steering Group is comprised by community group volunteers with relevant knowledge, experience and passion to make a positive impact in Midlothian, it’s communities and environment. Currently, our Steering Group is formed by:

Penicuik Development Trust

Representatives: Chris Sydes
Penicuik Community Development Trust uses the skills, energy and enthusiasm of local volunteers to make Penicuik a better place for all, young and old, for business to flourish, and visitors to enjoy.
Website

Mayfield and Easthouses Development Trust

Representatives: Sharon Hill
Mayfield and Easthouses Development Trust supports the local community through projects tackling poverty and promoting wellbeing, including a community pantry, café, garden, uniform recycling, and foodbank.
Website

One Dalkeith

Representatives: Douglas Strachan
One Dalkeith is a Community Development Trust owned by local people, working to regenerate the area socially, economically, and environmentally. It supports the community by providing facilities, activities, and opportunities to build connections.
Website

Become a member

The Midlothian Climate Action Network is shaped by local communities. That means you!

We bring together community groups and organisations across the region to share skills, support one another, and take action on the climate and nature crises. By becoming a member, you’re joining a growing movement for a fairer, more sustainable and resilient Midlothian.

Membership is free and open to any not-for-profit group based in Midlothian.

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