Scotland's Changing Climate
Learn how climate change is impacting Scotland and what it means for the future.
The impacts of climate change and extreme weather events are already here. From our natural environment, to out resources and the places where we live, we are already feeling some of these impacts. We need to become more resilient to ensure that Midlothian can prosper, and that all our communities and places can flourish.
How is our climate Changing?
Climate change might sometimes feel like a problem for future or generations or, at the very least, feel like its effects will be felt primarily across the world from us. However, we are already seeing significant changes in our weather systems in Scotland – milder but rainier winters, periods of draught in some parts of Scotland in the summers.
In Midlothian we can also feel some of these impacts. If you garden or grow food, you may have noticed some plants and vegetables growing out of season or not at all. You may have been affected by increased flooding of the Esk. Or you might have noticed a steep decline in pollinators like bees and butterflies over the years.
Scotland’s changing climate
Climate impacts in Scotland
What is causing all this?
To understand why our climate is changing, it’s important to look at what’s causing it. Human activities, like burning fossil fuels, cutting down forests, and manufacturing, release greenhouse gases that trap heat and warm the planet. These emissions are driving the changes we see in our climate today. Learning about these causes helps us understand the problem and how we can take action. Here are some great resources to get started:
NASA Climate Change Hub
Explore the science behind climate change with interactive tools, visuals, and the latest data from NASA.
IPCC Climate Change Explainer
Understand the key findings from leading climate scientists with clear, accessible summaries of the latest research.
Science Museum Group Animated Short Films
Explore the science of climate change and its impact on our world with a series of six animated short films.
Further Reading and Tools
- Greenhouse gas emissions: Which countries release the most greenhouse gases annually, and how do their emissions compare on a per-person basis?
Scottish Greenhouse Gas Statistics 1990-2022: Greenhouse gases released within Scotland, such as from industries, transport, and energy.
Scotland’s Carbon Footprint 1998-2020: Basd on emissions caused by what people in Scotland buy and use, including goods made in other countries.
Local Climate Adaptation Tool
Discover how local climates are changing, the health and community impacts at stake, who is most vulnerable, and the adaptations we can prioritize to build resilience together.
Local Authority Climate Explorer
Explore projected climate changes, sea level rise, and detailed reports for your local authority with interactive graphs and tools—empowering you to understand and prepare for the future.
Carbon Brief's Daily Briefing
Stay informed with expert climate and energy analysis delivered daily to your inbox—your morning briefing on media coverage and key research to start the day.
