Reflections from Lewis: Learning from Our North Atlantic Neighbours
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending the North Atlantic & Arctic Neighbours: Building Sustainable Futures for Island Communities event in Stornoway, hosted by Nordic Atlantic Cooperation (NORA) and the Islands Book Trust, and held at UHI North, West and Hebrides and Lews Castle.
Representing the Highlands and Islands Climate Hub, I joined participants from across Scotland, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland, and coastal Norway, all gathered to explore how island communities can build sustainable and vibrant futures in the face of shared challenges.
As someone based in Shetland, the conversations resonated deeply; from depopulation and centralised decision-making to energy transition, climate resilience, and the future of our industries and infrastructure.
Shared Challenges, Local Wisdom
It was both humbling and energising to hear how different communities are tackling similar issues in ways rooted in their own landscapes, cultures and governance models. Despite the geographical distances, many of the challenges felt familiar: how to attract and retain young people, manage housing pressures, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure that local voices shape local futures.
Climate change, of course, was at the heart of many discussions, not only as a threat, but as a catalyst for action. We talked about renewables, food and energy sovereignty, sustainable transport, and the role of community-led initiatives in driving adaptation and resilience.
Galston Estate: Community Power in Action
The highlight of the event for me was visiting Urras Oighreachd Ghabhsainn (The Galson Estate Trust) - a powerful example of what community land ownership can look like in practice.
Learning that 80% of Lewis is now under community ownership was incredibly inspiring. The Galson Estate is more than just land management; it’s a long-term vision for community wellbeing, local economy, and environmental stewardship, driven by the people who live there. The way they’re using their autonomy to benefit future generations felt particularly relevant for places like Shetland, where local ownership and decision-making could unlock similar potential.
A Network of Possibility
This event reminded me why collaboration matters. At the Highlands and Islands Climate Hub, part of our mission is to build stronger networks between communities so that we’re not each reinventing the wheel. Events like this offer more than ideas, they spark relationships, trust, and shared purpose.
Huge thanks to the organisers and hosts for creating such a welcoming, insightful space. I came home with fresh perspectives, new connections, and a deeper appreciation of what’s already happening across the North Atlantic, and how much we can learn from one another.
