December Project Update

Highland Adapts – December 2024 Project Update

As we close out another impactful year, Highland Adapts is reflecting on the progress we’ve made while looking ahead to the opportunities and challenges of 2025.

Highlights from 2024

1. Economic Assessment of Climate Change Impacts – Published in September

A major milestone this year was the publication of the Economic Assessment of Climate Change Impacts on the Highland Region in September. Authored by Paul Watkiss Associates, the report highlights the significant economic risks and opportunities posed by climate change.?This analysis provides a critical evidence base to inform adaptation strategies across sectors, helping stakeholders better understand and respond to climate risks while identifying opportunities for future growth and resilience.

2. Advancing the Circular Economy and Resilience Research

Building on the Economic Assessment’s findings, Highland Adapts is working with Zero Waste Scotland to explore how circular economy principles can support climate adaptation and vice versa. This ongoing research is examining supply chain risks in key sectors and identifying synergies that promote resilience, sustainability, and economic opportunity. The final report, expected in Spring 2025, will provide actionable insights to shape decision-making at local and regional levels.

3. Supporting Community Climate Action

Throughout 2024, Highland Adapts continued to champion community-led initiatives across the Highlands. Notably, the Highland Charter for Climate, Nature, and Health was launched earlier this year in partnership with the Highland Green Health Partnership, Highlands and Islands Climate Hub, and the Highland Environment Forum. The charter is helping to inspire action on the interconnected challenges of climate change, nature restoration, and health.

4. Highland Climate Risk and Opportunity Assessment – Progress Update

The development of the Highland Climate Risk and Opportunity Assessment remains a key priority for Highland Adapts. This comprehensive assessment, set to be published in 2025, will identify over 60 risks and opportunities associated with climate change in the region. Importantly, we are ensuring this work incorporates lived experiences and local insights gathered through the Highland Weather and Climate Story Map. We extend our thanks to everyone who has contributed their personal stories, helping to bring real-world context and nuance to our data.

5. Planning for the Future – Governance and Sustainability

To ensure the long-term success of Highland Adapts, we initiated an in-depth review of our governance structure and funding model. Independent consultants are currently working with our partners to develop a future-proofed legal structure and identify a diversified funding strategy. This work will enable us to transition into a new phase of growth, with a greater focus on catalysing climate resilience projects across the region.

Looking Ahead to 2025

This past year has brought plenty of challenges, but it has also been a time of growth, learning, and shared achievement. Working in partnership is not without its complexities—it requires ongoing effort, trust, and open communication—but it is also what makes transformational progress possible.? In 2025, our priorities will reflect both the progress we have achieved and the work still to be done.

A Note of Gratitude

We would like to thank our partners, stakeholders, and the wider community for your continued support and collaboration. Building a climate-ready Highland requires collective effort, and your contributions are vital to our shared success.

Here’s to a resilient 2025!

The Highland Adapts Team