The island Eriskay in the Outer Hebrides faces many challenges common to many rural communities: population stagnation, environmental degradation, and a struggle to preserve its cultural heritage.  

However, this community is tackling these challenges with the formation of Comann Eachdraidh Eirisgeidh (CEE), or Eriskay Historical Society, a community-led group that is committed to preserving Eriskay's heritage. The group is transforming the island's old schoolhouse into a local heritage museum while putting sustainability, and people, at the heart of the development. The initiative is a shining example of the Just Transition in action.  

They also won the Accelerate to Zero Just Transition Award in 2023. 

The background 

Initially Eriskay was one of the few islands in the Outer Hebrides without a Heritage Centre. Recognising the need to preserve Eriskay's cultural legacy, a group of islanders formed CEE. Their mission was to preserve materials of historical value to Eriskay, for the benefit of the community and visitors. But what began as a grassroots effort evolved into a multifaceted approach that integrated heritage preservation with climate action. 

Creating a cultural centre 

In 2021 the organisation purchased the island's closed-down schoolhouse, to turn it into a local history and heritage museum. The schoolhouse was a historical building on the Island, built around the year 1870 and finally closed in 2013. The redevelopment of the Eriskay School into a fully carbon-neutral building is ambitious and community members are leading and helping with the delivery.  

They are documenting the progress of 'Ionad Eilean na h-Òige' online on their Facebook. 

Community Climate Action Plan 

The work is underpinned by the community’s climate action plan. CEE's developed one of the first-ever ‘Community Climate Action Plans’, using it to guide its plans. It used community input as its foundation.  

Part of the Community Climate Action Plan is the measurement of Eriskay's carbon load as an island. Another part of the plan is using data-driven decision-making, with CEE forming partnerships with the British Science Association and the University of St Andrews to map climate changes on Eriskay. Also central to the plan's objectives is the proposal for complete community renewables, a significant step towards making Eriskay Net Zero.  

How CEE is achieving an actual Just Transition 

CEE's methodology for achieving a just transition is rooted in community empowerment, equity, and sustainability. At the core of their approach lies the principle of inclusivity, ensuring that all members of the Eriskay community have a voice in shaping the island's future. Through open dialogue, collaborative decision-making, and meaningful engagement, CEE has fostered a sense of ownership and pride among residents, laying the foundation for an actual transition that respects its people. 

CEE is also focussed on job creation and economic opportunities by creating employment opportunities for its residents. Recognising the importance of knowledge and expertise in driving climate action, its plan includes provisions for upskilling and training. Staff, both current and new, will be equipped with the necessary tools to champion climate goals. 

Moreover, the establishment of a community energy trust ensures that the benefits of renewable energy projects are equitably distributed among community members, addressing issues of fuel poverty and inequality. 

Impact 

The impact of the initiative on Eriskay and its residents has been profound in empowering members of the community to make positive change. CEE is helping grow the island, while also strengthening community resilience to the social and environmental challenges that it faces.