3 days ago
West Lothian organisation receives funding from Scottish Government to continue climate change actions
Projects range from community growing initiatives and local energy solutions to flood prevention
West Lothian Climate Action Network (WLCAN) received funding £170,985 to support local grassroots climate projects this year.
The organisation is aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy, and educate the public about climate change.
Projects range from community growing initiatives and local energy solutions to flood prevention and repair workshops.
The investment, which is part of the Scottish Government's commitment to tackling the climate emergency through community-led action, is being used by WLCAN to fund new projects this year, or develop ongoing ones.
Among the projects to benefit are, Artlink Boghall, who are developing a community garden at Boghall in Bathgate. Gardening and cooking projects support the aim of growing more food in the community.
WLCAN funds are also helping Broxburn and Uphall Growers to trial the use of electro-culture in vegetable beds at Strathbrock Community Garden, they hope to use the science to increase yields.
Ruth Plevin and Gordon Leckie from River Almond Action Group also receive funding from WLCAN to distribute water butts, allowing residents to divert rainwater, which relieves pressure on the drainage system and helps combat flooding after heavy rainfall.
Donald Stavert, Treasurer and a Director at WLCAN, said: 'We are delighted to have been awarded funding for another year of community climate action in West Lothian. We will be in every area of the district this year talking to the community and working actively with all our 80 member organisations on their development – exciting times.'
Angela Constance MSP for Almond Valley, welcomed the funding boost for WLCAN, saying: 'This £170,985 investment is fantastic news for West Lothian and a huge step forward for our communities.
"The West Lothian Climate Action Hub is doing outstanding work by bringing people together to tackle the climate emergency in ways that really matter locally – whether that's through food growing, reducing waste, or exploring low-carbon energy solutions.
'It's about recognising that real change happens when people are supported to take action in their own communities. With climate change continuing to be one of the biggest challenges of our time, local leadership is just as important as national ambition—and I'm proud to see the Scottish Government backing both.'
