Experts appointed to the Scottish Just Transition Commission

The full membership of the new Scottish Just Transition Commission has been announced. 

The Commission will feature 12 Parliamentary-term Commissioners who, working alongside Commission Chair Professor Jim Skea, will scrutinise, advise and report annually on the progress Scotland is making to ensure a greener future. 

Four further, fixed-term Commissioners have also been appointed to provide expert industry advice and insight on the Just Transition Plan for the energy sector.

Additional Commissioners providing specialist experience and insight will also be appointed for the duration of each sectoral just transition plan. 

Just Transition Minister Richard Lochhead said: ‘Ensuring our journey to net-zero is just and fair for everyone is critical, and the appointment of the Just Transition Commission membership marks an important step in this progress.

‘The Parliamentary-term membership of the new Commission brings a wide range of skills, expertise and views to help shape and steer our approach to just transition in the coming year, and I’d like to thank the Commissioners for agreeing to undertake the vital work that lies ahead.

‘Our approach in appointing additional Commissioners to support work on our first specific plan for the energy sector demonstrates our commitment to partnering with those who stand to be most impacted by the transition to net-zero, ensuring they are given a voice in determining their future. I want to be clear that we will listen to, and engage with, stakeholders and workers across the sector to ensure a just transition for everyone on the journey to net-zero.’

Professor Skea added: ‘Over the next four years, the Just Transition Commission will draw on a deep well of experience and expertise from across the industry, business and finance, trade unions, environmental and community groups, and academia.

‘I’m grateful to each of our new Commissioners for agreeing to take on the task that lies before us all: a transition to net-zero that is truly just and makes our country resilient for the challenges ahead.

‘We in Scotland have talked the talk on the need for a just transition. Now it’s time to deliver. Obviously, that must mean tough choices, hard work, and careful planning based on the best evidence.’