Local Development A core aim of Moray’s Local Development Plan 2020 is to encourage efficient use of land and promote low carbon and sustainable development. Specific principles are in place requiring developers to design for low and zero carbon emissions and to avoid development on carbon rich soils.
Community Action The council is a member of Moray Climate Action Network (Moray CAN), which is hosted by Tsi Moray. Moray CAN is a collaborative initiative funded by the Scottish Government as a designated climate hub. This dynamic network connects individuals and organisations in the Moray region to advance climate action and sustainability. With funding allocated for climate-related projects, Moray CAN facilitates knowledge exchange, project collaboration, and commissioning opportunities, aiming to address gaps in climate action and build upon existing efforts within the community.
Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) The council is developing a new long term plan to improve energy efficiency and decarbonise heat in Moray homes and buildings. Large scale action will be required in order to meet Scotland’s targets for reducing both carbon emissions and fuel poverty and the LHEES will ensure this is delivered in a way that is locally led and specific to the needs of communities.
Home Decarbonisation Support is available to make certain homes warmer and more energy efficient through a Scottish Government funded scheme. Improvements for eligible properties are delivered for the council by Changeworks and include installation of solar panels and battery storage, internal or cavity wall insulation and air source heat pumps.
Education Moray schools deliver Learning for Sustainability as an important part of the curriculum, supporting understanding of climate change within our communities. Improvements to school buildings and grounds to further support outdoor learning are ongoing across Moray.
Sustainable Travel The council promotes active and sustainable travel through a number of initiatives. The transition to zero and low carbon forms of transport are being supported through infrastructure improvements as well as working with schools and communities to encourage behaviour change.
Local Economy The council recognises the importance of vibrant and resilient local businesses in building a sustainable, low carbon economy for Moray. Our procurement strategy reflects the Council’s commitment to community wealth building and increasing the opportunity for local suppliers to secure or participate in public contracts. Improved engagement with local businesses and enhanced supplier development initiatives are being progressed to support these objectives.
Hydrogen Strategy The rapid reduction of carbon emissions we need to make will involve adoption of new and innovative technologies in addition to other measures. The Moray Hydrogen Strategy sets out how the development of a green hydrogen economy in Moray could support the transition away from burning fossil fuels and create quality local jobs. The strategy was updated in 2024 and is available here.