Kate Hopper joined NFU Scotland this week, taking on the role of Policy Manager for Climate Change.
Her role will be to influence legislation, regulation, commercial practice, and public debate around climate change issues in order to secure a sustainable future for Scottish agriculture.
Kate graduated from Heriot Watt University in 2002 with a Masters in Town and Country Planning, and completed a Masters degree in Climate Change in 2011. She started her career in consultancy before joining the City of Edinburgh Council in 2004, specialising in climate change impacts and mitigation, renewable energy, and communicating and advocating for change in environmental policy.
Looking at her new role within NFU Scotland, Kate said: “I am delighted to be joining NFU Scotland at this critical time in Scotland’s Green Recovery from COVID-19. The twin crisis of climate change and biodiversity loss, along with the security of our food supply are crucial issues in delivering a sustainable future for Scottish agriculture”.
“I look forward to communicating the needs of Scotland’s farmers and crofters as we seek to reduce emissions whilst supporting resilient and productive agricultural businesses”.
Commenting on Kate’s appointment, Head of Policy Team Gemma Cooper added: “I am excited to welcome Kate to the policy team at NFUS. She brings with her a wealth of experience of stakeholder engagement and policy development as well as a passion for food production and rural Scotland”.
“With a Masters degree in climate change, she is in an ideal position to work with our members to ensure that policy reflects the fact that farmers are part of the solution to climate change”.
