Climate change risks in Highland are already significant and are expected to intensify over the coming decades. The HCCROA provides Highland’s first regional assessment of climate change risks and opportunities from the present day to the 2080s. It covers 50 risks and opportunities across five themes: land, nature, and food; health and wellbeing; community and economy; built environment; and infrastructure. The executive summary is available in English and Gaelic.

Climate change will have potentially significant negative impacts on the Highland region equivalent to around -1.5% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) a year by the 2050s, rising to up to -3.3% a year by the 2080s. Our economic assessment provides the first Highland-specific regional economic analysis for climate change impacts. It also includes three sector reports: forestry and timber, energy, and food and drink.

The Highland food and drink sector is on the frontline of climate change, facing increasing risks from extreme weather, biodiversity loss, and shifting market dynamics. This report focuses on the role circular economy practices (like retaining resource value and shortening supply chains) can play in strengthening climate resilience across the sector. The report identifies key barriers, local case studies, and opportunities for systemic change.