The Edinburgh Communities Climate Action Network (ECCAN) was initiated in May 2022 following the Scottish Communities Climate Action Network (SCCAN)’s success. ECCAN’s purpose is to develop community-led action in Edinburgh, to address the climate and nature emergency, working for a just, thriving and resilient city: by nurturing a vibrant, community-driven network that empowers individuals and community groups; by providing resources, support, and opportunities for meaningful climate and environmental action
Please read the Mission Statement for ECCAN setting out the ECCAN Purpose, Outcomes and Values.
ECCAN has 214 committed members, 74 group members and 140 individual members, as of March 2024. Building upon these registered members’ expertise in resource sharing, signposting, and advisory sessions has allowed ECCAN to run wide networking activities and community consultations, mapping work, envisioning events and multiple network gatherings (reports here). This diverse network includes grassroots initiatives, community groups, and various organisations working towards climate goals in Edinburgh.
Strengthened and refounded with a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) application now approved by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR), an inaugural members meeting of ECCAN was held in November 2023.
The ECCAN 2023 Summer Garden Party brought together a wide range of climate action groups to network, showcase initiatives and discuss policy at one of our members at Leith Community Croft.
ECCAN recognises the importance of mapping community groups and supporting local groups through shared services. The commitment to inclusivity and accessibility has fostered collaboration and empowered individuals and organisations to take meaningful climate action.
In July 2023, ECCAN conducted a consultation survey to gather views on the priorities for the planned network. 223 survey responses, including responses from 81 community organisations provides a fascinating picture of a network of many well established groups that have been working on climate issues for some time.
As survey responses show, survey respondents came from most areas of the city and included many non-climate related organisations as well as those already engaged. This diversity is an important priority in shaping the network based on community input.
ECCAN has established regular communication channels, organised networking events, and effectively disseminated information to the community through a monthly newsletter, a website, and a membership network.
You can read the trustees’ biographies here. The ECCAN elected trustees have links with the Clean Heat Edinburgh Forum, The Open University, Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council, Scottish Parliamentary Staff and the Trust Fund but to name a few organisations. The trustees have the power to co-opt 3 additional trustees which will be done shortly after the trustees’ skills audit.