Delivering NPF4 Policy 2: A Workshop for Scottish Planners and Stakeholders

Join planning officers, policy experts, and industry leaders during this Fringe event to unpack Scotland’s National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) Policy 2. We will be exploring how whole-life carbon assessment and (digital) tools can support credible, consistent delivery of net zero planning.

This half-day workshop will help planning officers and stakeholders understand what “good” looks like under Scotland’s NPF4 Policy 2 - from interpreting the guidance and defining proportionate evidence to exploring practical approaches for implementation. Through expert presentations, interactive roundtables, and group discussions, delegates will gain clarity on WLC requirements, learn from pioneering local authorities, and explore how digital tools such as PACER can support consistent and efficient policy delivery.

Join us to unpack the implications of Policy 2, share experiences, and shape the next chapter of low-carbon planning in Scotland!

An Overview of NPF4 Policy 2

Scotland adopted the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) on the 13th of February 2023, making national policy central to everyday planning decisions. On the 5th of June 2025, the Scottish Government issued official guidance for Policy 2: Climate Mitigation and Adaptation, clarifying how proposals should address emissions and resilience across the development lifecycle.

Policy 2 asks that development proposals contribute to net zero and adapt to climate risks, with a proportionate, evidence-based approach. It integrates with wider NPF4 policies (place, nature, heat and transport) and reinforces a plan-led system.

At the heart of Policy 2 is whole-life carbon (WLC): assessing and minimising emissions “as far as possible” across all lifecycle stages - from materials and construction through operation, maintenance, and end of life. The guidance promotes early consideration and a four-step process supported by recognised standards and proportionate evidence.

The Impact on Scottish Local Planning Authorities

These requirements raise expectations for applicants and are set to stretch planning skills and capacity. Getting to grips with WLC is essential for Scottish Local Planning Authorities to implement the Policy 2 requirements into their Local Development Plans, make consistent planning decisions, achieve better outcomes, and ensure credible progress towards net zero.

About the Workshop

This half-day workshop for Scottish Local Planning Authorities and other key stakeholders aligns planning delegates on what "good" looks like under Policy 2. We will:

• Set the scene on NPF4 and the new Policy 2 guidance.
• Clarify WLC requirements and proportionate evidence at each stage.
• Outline the UK and European context and what leading councils are doing.
• Signpost key standards and tools, showcasing the Planning Application Carbon Evaluation and Reduction (PACER) platform as an example of a digital WLC review workflow.
• Facilitate roundtables, followed by a panel and Q&A to surface practical takeaways.

The workshop sessions will be followed by networking drinks at a nearby pub from 17:00 onwards.

The full programme will be emailed to registered participants and will include speakers from pioneering Local Authorities who have successfully implemented WLC monitoring and reporting systems. We will also be joined by policy experts and industry representatives for a truly collaborative working day focused on solutions and lowering barriers to delivering better outcomes for the communities and environment of Scotland.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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