THE Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF) has called for more industry-informed environmental targets, following the Scottish Government’s decision to abandon its 2030 greenhouse gas emissions ambitions.
Fiona Hodgson, chief executive of SNIPEF, now wants to see a ‘comprehensive reset’ of policy, engagement, and targets.
She said, “The 2030 targets, which always seemed more driven by the pursuit of headlines than establishing a meaningful, step-by-step roadmap towards the 2045 climate goals, were sadly and predictably abandoned due to their unrealistic ambitions and the lack of a realistic plan to support them. This approach has inevitably led to their failure and fostered uncertainty among businesses and the public about the feasibility of future targets.”
Hodgson is urging the Scottish Government to adopt a more inclusive approach by incorporating all relevant stakeholders, including industry experts and community representatives, from the beginning of the planning process.
“To prevent further setbacks and foster an investment-friendly environment, the government must systematically overhaul the target-setting process,” she advised.
Hodgson highlighted the need for future targets to be based on detailed, sector-specific knowledge that addresses practical realities, including the necessary infrastructure from power generation to consumption.
“These targets should not be arbitrary or merely top-down, reverse-engineered mandates but should be collaboratively developed, realistic, and achievable objectives with clear steps and milestones,” she explained.
Reaffirming SNIPEF’s commitment to Scotland’s environmental aims, Hodgson added, “We remain fully committed to advancing low-carbon heating solutions. Through thoughtful planning, robust collaboration, and consistent government support, we are confident that significant strides can be made towards the 2045 net zero target.”
