Dundee experts join projects powering a net zero future in Scotland

Funded by Scotland Beyond Net Zero – a coalition of leading climate and sustainability experts from Scotland's universities – the Dundee initiatives form three of eight new research collaborations aimed at accelerating Scotland’s transition to net zero. 

Each project involves cross-sector collaborations to address sustainability challenges in energy, finance, food, the built environment, natural systems, and transport. 

Professor Lisanne Gibson, Vice-Principal of Research at the University of Dundee and Chair of Scotland Beyond Net Zero’s seed fund committee, said, “Scotland’s ambitious net zero targets demand a bold and integrated approach. The seed fund was designed to strengthen cross-institutional research partnerships between Scotland’s universities and external organisations, including community groups, government bodies, and the private sector. This will ensure robust research directly informs industry practice and innovation.” 

“These projects are a crucial step in our journey towards a more sustainable and equitable future, not just for Scotland, but globally.” 

One of the Dundee projects will see the University work with Wester Ross UNESCO Biosphere, Dundee City Council, Dundee International Women’s Centre and the University of Edinburgh to explore the lived experiences of women in deprived communities in Tayside. The study will then use the findings to inform a just transition in Scotland.

Dundee experts will also work with partners to develop a strategic framework for utilising green bonds to finance Scotland’s transition to a net zero economy, while another project will develop a performance framework for circular economy practice in Scotland.

Other funded projects include the piloting of electric wallpaper in 12 tenement properties in Glasgow to assess its effectiveness as a clean heat source, and a project to study hydrogen energy production from plastic waste. This project aims to reduce waste from plastics and advance the development of a circular energy economy.

To find out more about each of the eight projects, please visit the Scotland Beyond Net Zero website: www.scotland-beyond-net-zero.ac.uk