A distinguished climate scientist and former chief executive of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency has been appointed as the independent chair to lead the Isle of Man’s climate change action plan.
Professor James Curran, who was awarded an MBE for his services to the environment in 2007, will lead the Climate Emergency Consultative Transformation Team (CECTT). The team will be made up of MLC Mrs Jane Poole-Wilson, MHK Mr Ralph Peake, representatives of government departments and climate change specialists.
In June, Tynwald unanimously agreed to set up a dedicated climate emergency transformation team.
The CECTT will be responsible for producing a climate change action plan that will go to Tynwald in January 2020. The team will also inform the Climate Change Bill due to be introduced next year.
Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:
‘I’m delighted that we have Professor Curran leading the CECTT team. His breadth of knowledge, passion and significant experience in this field will be fundamental in driving forward the climate change action plan which will lay out the necessary steps and targets for the Isle of Man to achieve net zero carbon emissions.’
Professor James Curran, said:
'I am very impressed with the resources available in the Isle of Man, not only the natural resources but the commitment of the people I’ve met and the degree of optimism and enthusiasm.
'We are facing a climate and an ecosystem emergency. There are real opportunities here to tackle both simultaneously and deliver co-benefits to society, environment and the economy.'
Professor Curran currently chairs the climate adaptation committee for the Glasgow City Region (Climate Ready Clyde) and has extensive climate science expertise, understanding of the economic and social aspects of climate change, and proven leadership in the public sector and with non-governmental organisations.
Professor Curran has a PhD in meteorology, is a meteorologist and has been an honorary professor at the University of Stirling. He was also a member of the Scottish Government’s Climate Change Delivery Board.
Professor Curran and the CECTT team will meet with a broad range of stakeholders in advance of the action plan being presented to Tynwald.
