Response

The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) is bound by the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 which creates a statutory framework for greenhouse gas emissions reductions in Scotland. Police Scotland reports compliance on SPA's behalf. The SPA/Police Scotland annual Climate Change Reports are published on the Sustainable Scotland Network website. The report is approved for submission to Scottish Government by SPA's Chief Executive.

Question 1 – There is an overall target to cut total emissions, including those from business travel. In 2021 the Authority approved Police Scotland’s Environmental Strategy which aims to reduce carbon emissions by 35% within five years. Page 18 provides a travel hierarchy for staff to consider when considering each business journey. The hierarchy asks staff to always consider virtual working first, with air travel the last resort, only when other travel options (public transport i.e., bus and rail and private or hired car are not applicable).

Questions 2 and 3 – The Authority’s Corporate team has further developed the hierarchy, researching similar approaches, including partner organisations. Senior management authorisation is required before any air travel is sanctioned.

Appendix 1 highlights the policy intention to travel more sustainably for work and considerations for staff before they decide which form of travel they will take. Air travel is included in the policy and is only considered in exceptional circumstances and with senior management authorisation.

Question 4 and 5 – See Appendix 2 for SPA air and rail travel from Edinburgh/Glasgow to south-east England destinations, for the most recent 12 month reporting period, April 2022 to March 2023