My role at Community Energy Scotland is to support the island communities of Cumbrae, Islay and Raasay to carry out a climate accounting exercise and develop a climate action plan to become carbon neutral by 2040.
The climate and fuel crises are two of the biggest issues we face right now. I look forward to getting to know people and working with local communities to take more positive steps to becoming more resilient in the face of the climate crisis, particularly through developing community energy initiatives. I am excited by the scope of this local action to couple with other projects to have a national and global impact.
I have worked in various community-building roles and enjoy developing relationships and working in creative ways tailored to the community need and expertise. Most recently running a canal boat based community project on the Union Canal: providing opportunities for nature connection, wellbeing and environmental stewardship. Previously working for the RSPB in inclusion, my role was to create opportunities for more diverse groups of people to enjoy the beauty and the environment of Cairngorms National Park. Working with people with additional needs at Gorgie City Farm in Edinburgh gave me an understanding of the importance of everyone having agency within their lives. These experiences have crystallised my feeling that local collective community activity can provide support and connection and build networks. I’m hopeful that Community Energy Scotland initiatives can act as a platform for community cohesion and growth.
Whilst working, I did an Open University degree in Environmental Sciences, gaining an understanding of the challenges and possible ways of mitigating the climate crisis. I am keen to bring this learning to the climate accounting and creating action plans to support the diverse island communities. I’m from Glasgow, currently live in Edinburgh, and have been lucky to live both in Orkney, the Highlands and other rural places. I always find the resilience and knowledge base within local communities inspiring.
I’m happiest when walking up hills to enjoy the exercise, the views and fresh perspective!
anna.philbrick(at)communityenergyscotland.org.uk
Phone: 07852 538792
