The motion, which was supported by the majority of councillors, asked the council to write to Strathclyde Pension Fund calling on it to divest from fossil fuels as soon as possible and for the council to develop a Responsible Investment Policy of its own.  

This summer many of us witnessed the catastrophic events of climate change on our own doorstep from excessive heatwaves and droughts in Scotland, to wildfires across Europe and the Americas, and floods in Pakistan. The Climate Crisis has never been more apparent.

South Lanarkshire must use its money for positive change.

The current cost of living crisis stems from our over reliance on fossil fuels, and on the damaging business practices of the fossil fuel industry. Divesting from fossil fuels would free up those funds to drive community wealth building and to invest in ventures that seek climate and ecological action. We need these investments for a brighter future. In short, improving the lives of the people of South Lanarkshire.

Cllr Robb commented after the debate: “I brought this motion to help secure a safer and better future for pension fund members and future generations. Ensuring our pension and council funds are invested responsibly, in projects that address the climate and ecological crisis and other local positive changes, rather than fueling the problems, is key. I’m delighted to have secured the support of the majority of Councillors to help achieve this.”