Dr Kate Willis is the first Scottish Green candidate to stand in council elections in Lochaber.

Full statement

She has lived in the Highlands for nearly 20 years, working as a marine ecologist, a wildlife tour guide and currently works for Lochaber Environmental Group developing projects to improve local active travel opportunities and cycling infrastructure. Many in Lochaber will know Kate from the work she is doing to deliver HIBIKE, the Fort William ebike share scheme. Kate has also campaigned for many years for government action on the climate and ecological crises and is passionate about rewilding and local food production. Kate says: "Looking to the future after COP26, we need to think longer-term and do everything we can to ensure the right decisions are made in the coming months and years to deliver a brighter future. As a Green councillor, I would work with residents and communities helping to improve democratic systems of local governance, building inclusive, resilient communities with affordable warm homes for all and improved active travel infrastructure and public transport. With a more local focus, we could concentrate on building a circular economy that supports and promotes local enterprises and jobs, while reducing waste and carbon emissions. To tackle the climate and ecological crises we need to work together to build a stronger, sustainable future and a greener fairer world for our children and grandchildren to grow up in."