Comrie set to rise to carbon challenge

Nov 14 2008 by Lynn Duke, Strathearn Herald

COMRIE’S carbon challenge could potentially reduce the village’s CO2 output by 1350 tonnes and collectively save residents £300,000 if everyone gets on board with the energy audits.

These consist of an interview with householders on their energy use, the fabric, heating and insulation of their house, and the way utilities are used. From there a plan is drawn up of what could be done to make the house more efficient.

Improvements are not obligatory but many households will be eligible to have environmental enhancements carried out for free while others will receive grants of up to 60%.

To see the change in Comrie’s carbon footprint following the energy audits, thermal images will be taken before and after the scheme is implemented.

Scottish Green Party MSP Patrick Harvie believes that where Comrie leads, the rest of Scotland will follow. He said: “Properly insulating our homes is the best way to tackle fuel poverty, improve health, and beat climate change all at the same time.

“There is much that government can do, but the secret with projects like the Climate Challenge Fund is to draw on and support good ideas from visionary communities like Comrie, to bring in appropriate partners, and to use those ideas to inspire others and bring about wider change.”

Comrie Development Trust is keen for local people to be trained to carry out the audits and for local firms to carry out the necessary improvement works.

CDT chairperson Cathy Tilbrook, added: “This project is a crucial part of our plans for Comrie Carbon Challenge. Not only will it reduce the village’s energy consumption, but it will cut people’s fuel bills and provide employment for local contractors. What more could you ask of a project!”

The full remit of Comrie’s Challenge also includes the sustainable development of Cultybraggan and wider village projects, such as a local transport plan and community composting.

Giving a warm welcome to the proposals, MSP Roseanna Cunningham said: “The Comrie Carbon Challenge represents the fruits of a community bursting with ideas, commitment and get up and go. I am delighted that this project is being backed by the Scottish Government but more than that, I am proud of the initiative and ambition being shown by the community of Comrie in blazing this trail for the rest of Scotland.”