Deputy leader Wendy Chamberlain announced plans to focus on climate change initiatives, particularly in supporting research and innovation for zero-carbon technologies to boost the economy and create new job opportunities.
The Scottish Liberal Democrats have announced plans to prioritize climate change in a new industrial strategy. Deputy leader Wendy Chamberlain outlined this during a visit to a green hydrogen start-up in Harris, Western Isles. The party aims to capitalize on economic opportunities associated with achieving net zero emissions. Chamberlain emphasized that while other political parties are stepping back from climate commitments, the Lib Dems are committed to supporting science, research, and innovation, especially in small businesses and start-ups focusing on zero-carbon technologies. They plan to invest at least 3% of GDP in research and development by 2030 and support energy storage technologies such as green hydrogen, pumped storage, and batteries.
The Lib Dems also intend to continue participating in Horizon Europe, an EU research and innovation fund, and aim to join the European Innovation Council, which focuses on hydrogen technologies. Chamberlain highlighted that this approach can help create clean, well-paid jobs across Scotland and enable the UK to lead globally in innovation and climate solutions.