On 28 May 2025, members of the Public Sector Climate Adaptation Network (PSCAN) gathered for their bi-annual meeting in a hybrid format, with over 50 participants joining from across Scotland. The day brought together public sector professionals to reflect on progress, explore new research and practical examples, and discuss future priorities for climate adaptation.
Reflecting on Progress
The morning sessions focused on where we are now in Scotland’s adaptation journey. Iain Thom and Sarah Chalmers from the Scottish Government opened with an update on national developments, including progress on implementing the Scottish Climate Change Adaptation Programme.
This was followed by highlights from the latest research from ClimateXChange (CXC), presented by Kay White. Her session explored emerging themes from new studies and what they mean for adaptation policy and practice.
Practical Insights from Across Scotland
Before lunch, participants heard from two speakers sharing place-based experiences of adaptation in action. Dr Eleanor Gourevitch from NatureScot discussed how the organisation is building internal skills and confidence to communicate effectively about climate change and adaptation. Her insights underscored the importance of clear, values-led messaging and internal capacity building.
Claudia Cowie from Aberdeenshire Council shared the process and lessons learned from developing their local Climate Change Adaptation Plan. The presentation offered a practical look at the opportunities and challenges of embedding adaptation in local authority planning and decision-making.
Exploring Adaptation Tools and Innovations
The afternoon sessions shifted to future-facing tools and platforms. A team from the Maximising UK Adaptation to Climate Change (MACC) Hub – including Shruthi Krishnamoorthy, Shona Koren Paterson, Ruth Butterfield and Rosie Witton – introduced their collaborative work to co-create a UK-wide adaptation platform. Their presentation explored how systems thinking, participatory research and new digital tools are being used to support more transformational approaches to adaptation.
Later, Emma Bruce and David Fadipe from SEPA shared updates on the agency’s latest flood risk maps, which provide more detailed, up-to-date information for local planning and resilience-building efforts.
Shaping the Future of PSCAN
The day concluded with a forward-looking session inviting members to help shape the future direction of PSCAN. Through a mix of small group and whole-network discussion, participants reflected on the value of the network and shared ideas on how it can continue to support shared learning, collaboration and action.
Adaptation Moments of Joy
What sparks joy in the world of climate adaptation? We asked PSCAN members to share a moment, big or small, that reminded them why this work matters. Here’s what they had to say.
About PSCAN
The Public Sector Climate Adaptation Network (PSCAN) supports Scotland’s public bodies to respond to the climate crisis by connecting people, sharing practical knowledge, and strengthening collective action.
