Axel Piper

The Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde and Deloitte have embarked on a year-long collaboration, Driving Growth: Innovation and Sustainability in Scotland, with the aim of shaping the future of Scotland's economy. Their focus? Digital innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the energy transition. The initiative has already started producing insights that could position Scotland as a global leader in high-tech sustainable solutions. The Role of AI and Digital Innovation in Scotland Scotland has long been a hub for technological advancements, and recent research underscores its potential. The latest report from the collaboration reveals that businesses in digital…

A 33-year-old man has been charged following damage caused to Donald Trump's Turnberry golf resort earlier this month. The vandalism, which included red paint splattered on a building and pro-Palestinian graffiti on a green, is being investigated by police, with inquiries still ongoing. Damage at the Prestigious Golf Course The incident took place on March 8 at the Ayrshire resort. Vandals dug up part of the golf course and painted the words "Gaza is not for sale" on one of the greens. Additionally, red paint was splashed across a building at the luxury property, which is owned by former U.S.…

Scottish authorities are weighing an expansion of the country's landfill ban on biodegradable municipal waste (BMW), seeking input from businesses, environmental groups, and the general public. The proposed move could extend the ban to include non-municipal biodegradable waste, raising questions about infrastructure readiness and alternative waste processing solutions. The Scottish Government has launched a call for evidence to gauge the impact of a broader ban, inviting stakeholders to weigh in by June 17. The feedback will help determine if landfill remains the best option for certain types of waste and assess the unintended consequences of a wider prohibition. Waste Industry…

From glowing sunsets over bridges to swans gliding on tranquil lakes, Scotland has once again shown off its breathtaking landscapes. Between 21 and 28 March, photographers from across the country captured a variety of stunning scenes, each offering a glimpse into the nation's natural beauty and everyday moments. A Bridge Bathed in Color Alan Findlater's snapshot of the Connel Bridge near Oban stands out with its vibrant palette. The sky transitions smoothly from deep blue to fiery red, mirrored beautifully in the river below. The iconic structure, silhouetted against the colorful backdrop, adds to the striking composition. Scotland’s west coast…

The next generation of renewable energy leaders in Scotland has been named, with more than 30 young professionals shortlisted for this year’s Young Professionals Green Energy Awards. The highly anticipated event, scheduled for May 1 at Glasgow’s Radisson Blu Hotel, will celebrate the achievements of those pushing boundaries in the industry. Recognizing Innovation and Dedication More than 300 attendees are expected to gather as the brightest talents in the sector are recognized across eight competitive categories. The awards, organized by Scottish Renewables, highlight individuals who are driving forward new ideas and innovations in Scotland’s transition to clean energy. Among the…

The Scottish government has failed to meet its legal targets for reducing child poverty, with newly released figures showing progress but falling short of the interim benchmarks. Despite efforts to curb poverty through social security programs, the data raises concerns about whether the country can meet its long-term goals by 2030. Child Poverty Rates Drop, But Not Enough New figures for 2023-24 show Scotland’s relative child poverty rate at 22%, while absolute poverty stands at 17%. These numbers reflect a slight decrease from the previous year but remain above the government’s target of getting relative poverty below 18% and absolute…

Scotland could see some of the cheapest electricity prices in Europe—if a major shake-up in the UK’s energy pricing system goes ahead. That’s the view of Octopus Energy’s boss Greg Jackson, who argues that bills should be calculated regionally rather than at a national level. The Case for Zonal Pricing Right now, electricity prices across the UK are set based on the costliest form of energy being used anywhere in the country at a given time. Since gas is still a major source of power, bills remain high—even in places like Scotland, where renewable generation is abundant. Jackson believes a…

The cargo vessel Solong, involved in a collision with the oil tanker Stena Immaculate in the North Sea, is being towed to Aberdeen for further assessment. Authorities have confirmed that the vessel will arrive at the Scottish port later this week. Salvage Efforts Progress as Solong Heads to Aberdeen The UK Coastguard has been closely monitoring the situation. Chief Coastguard Paddy O’Callaghan stated that salvage operations have advanced, ensuring Solong can be safely relocated to the Port of Aberdeen for secure berthing. Meanwhile, the Stena Immaculate remains in a stable condition at sea, with salvage efforts ongoing. While no major…

The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), a subsidiary of NatWest Group, is ramping up its support for UK entrepreneurs. Over the next three years, RBS will collaborate with up to 10 UK universities to establish new business accelerators, further embedding itself in the country’s innovation ecosystem. Aiming for 10,000 Entrepreneurs by 2025 NatWest Group is setting an ambitious target: bringing 10,000 entrepreneurs into its Accelerator community by 2025. This initiative is part of the bank’s broader strategy to support the UK’s economic growth through targeted investment in high-potential businesses. Since its inception in Birmingham in 2015, the RBS Accelerator has…

Scotland is set to transform mental health care with the introduction of its first-ever network of walk-in support hubs. Spearheaded by the charity Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH), the initiative aims to provide immediate assistance to those struggling with mental health issues—eliminating the barriers of referrals, appointments, and waiting lists. No More Waiting Lists: Immediate Mental Health Support SAMH’s ambitious new project, The Nook, is designed to end the "waiting list misery" experienced by tens of thousands seeking mental health services. Unlike traditional support systems, which often require lengthy waiting periods and bureaucratic hurdles, The Nook will offer a…