The Scottish island of Islay has received a £1 million funding boost to help it achieve its ambitious goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2040.

As part of the Scottish Government's Carbon Neutral Islands (CNI) project, Islay is one of six islands aiming to lead the way in sustainable living. The funding will support various initiatives, including the expansion of a local tree nursery and the installation of renewable energy systems in community buildings.

Islay Energy Trust, in partnership with Community Energy Scotland, has been working to develop a Community Climate Action Plan and promote local energy generation. The new funding will help to implement key actions outlined in this plan.


The initiative aims to reduce the island's carbon footprint and create a more sustainable future for its residents.

The Council's Policy Lead for Climate Change, Renewables and Net Zero, Councillor Luna Martin, said: "We are committed to tackling climate change and the communities on Islay are to be congratulated on their already impressive efforts in helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and  deliver more sustainable energy on the island.

"This CNI Capital funding is vital in enabling even more projects to happen. The two successful projects will help to reduce carbon emissions and reduce running costs for community run organisations, supporting jobs, promoting local growing and contributing to the national 2045 net zero commitment."

Tom Skinner from Islay Energy Trust, said: "The Carbon Neutral Islands project is giving us a fantastic platform to help Islay's transition into the new era of carbon free energy."

The other Scottish islands included in the CNI project, which were identified following consultation with councils and island representatives, are Hoy, Great Cumbrae, Raasay, Barra and Yell.

Tom Skinner from Islay Energy Trust, said: "The Carbon Neutral Islands project is giving us a fantastic platform to help Islay's transition into the new era of carbon free energy."