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Good morning, panel.

At last week’s meeting, we talked at length about the need for more education of and information for the public; we have touched on those again this morning. A significant part of the transition to net zero concerns energy efficiency improvements in existing buildings. It appears that that will be key.

Emma Harvey mentioned raising awareness of the benefits of green mortgages and how green bonds can encourage participation in green agendas. What more do you feel can be done to encourage home owners to make such changes?

There was a lot in there, and it was really helpful. I am sorry, Emma, but I am directing this question to you again, based on your earlier answers. What sources of private capital are available to current home owners to fund retrofitting work? You have spoken about the role that local authorities can play to attract finance into individual areas; perhaps you could expand on that and advise us whether there are other opportunities for attracting capital. I am happy to bring in other panel members following Emma.

It is interesting that you brought communities into that, too, because they are a key part of that. From my experience of being a councillor, I know that the public are generally supportive and sympathetic to green agendas, but their participation is key. In my experience, with regard to biodiversity, communities did not like measures being forced on them, but their reaction when they actually got the chance to be involved was completely different—they felt more empowered.

How well do you feel that your organisations and councils involve local communities in decision making on such projects and support community-led initiatives? I will come to Nick Halfhide first, but I also want to bring in a few of the other witnesses.

Absolutely. Actually, my next question was going to be on consultation. As you have said, there is no use in just asking people for their opinion on proposals, but the committee has also heard a lot about consultation fatigue or, indeed, consultations not always reaching everyone. Do you agree that we need to find new ways of interacting and engaging with communities?

I know that we are short of time, so, unless any other witnesses want to come in, I am happy to pass back to the convener.

I apologise, Ben.

Absolutely. I will come to Julie Waldron next.

Thank you, Emma; that was a very helpful and thorough response. Jeremy, do you have anything to add?

Good morning to the panel. This morning, we have chatted about the impact on citizens when it comes to cost and disruption. Evidence suggests that people are more motivated than ever to make changes to their lifestyles in order to transition towards net zero. The statistic that I heard this morning was that 40 per cent would like to move into a more energy-efficient home. What pressure do you feel from customers for such homes? Does that factor currently define choice in the purchase of a new home?

I appreciate that. Thank you. In moving towards any aspect of a more environmentally friendly life, there are always added cost implications, so it is important to keep that conversation going with people who are in poverty.