This generation’s challenge is climate change — arguably the greatest yet — for our actions today will have consequences on a gigantic scale.
For too long, politicians have kicked the can down the road, setting future goals largely dictated by prevailing political winds and sentiment.
The time for words has passed. There must be action — for it is our future we are gambling with.
Many remain unfazed, due to the perception that it will be a distant problem, while some are bizarrely in denial — even with the irrefutable evidence ever present in front of our very eyes, with more extreme weather happening year on year.
If we fail to take bold action, the damage climate change will have on Scotland will only get worse — with higher food prices, longer spells of water shortages and more costs for the taxpayer to adjust to rising temperatures.
Yet taking action on climate change isn’t just about preventing disaster.
It can also make life better for all of us right now.
For example, investing in clean energy is a win for everybody.
It will drive down household bills, as we can make large quantities of it here at home — without reliance on international prices.
We have seen this in recent years, with Russia’s illegal, barbaric and evil invasion of Ukraine disrupting global energy supplies and pushing up the bills of British households.
If we invest in clean energy, we can be self-reliant — ensuring we are not held hostage by geopolitics.
The benefits don’t stop with lower bills.
The fight to tackle climate change will also be one of the greatest economic opportunities we will ever have.
We have the natural resources to be a world leader in renewable energy — but building and operating new infrastructure will require thousands of high-quality new jobs.
For young people in Clackmannanshire, that’s a huge opportunity.
New apprenticeships and entry-level jobs in green industries will provide stable, well-paid careers close to home.
This will give school leavers a chance to work in a future-proof industry that is also helping to tackle the defining issue of our time.
This is entirely within reach.
The new UK Government has set up GB Energy, which will invest in producing clean infrastructure across communities and help drive economic growth.
The Scottish Government should follow suit and put real funding into renewables — not just words.
However, both governments must also ensure there is a just transition for workers.
The closure of the Grangemouth refinery is certainly a blow to the community, and the support available must be maximised.
Climate change is the challenge of our time — but it is also our chance.
Acting now will mean cheaper bills, secure energy and good jobs for young people.
Delaying this will only bring higher costs.
The correct choice — both financially and morally — is to invest in clean energy, to invest in people and communities and to invest in young people’s futures.