Scotland

Programme Outline

00.00-00.45

Titles and commentary establish that fossil fuels have long been vital to Scotland, but that alternatives are needed.

00.45- 02.15

Film uses archive footage to sum up North Sea oil and gas exploration of 1960 (and the development of Sullom Voe as the best terminal site).

02.15-04.37

Interview with an oil terminal employee plus footage of local environment. Contrast boom time of the 1970s with lack of opportunity today.

04.37-06.30

The interview leads onto issues of lifestyle in Shetland; the short days of winter; the early dismal evenings; the need to be self-sufficient and to be careful with fuel and energy supplies.

06.30-07.26

Commentary introduces other energy sources, starting with peat cutting.

07.26-08.12

Wind power is considered by looking at one resident's system.

08.12-11.23

The scene moves to Fair Isle - an even more remote location. Commentary and footage show that peat cutting is not an option, but that wind power is more developed. The diesel generators are there for backup, but are no longer the mainstay.

11.23-11.47

A brief consideration of HEP, in the upland zone, as one 'renewable energy' source.

11.47-12.36

Shots of large wind farms and their visual impact on the Dumfries area. Commentary emphasises they are relatively unpolluting but only likely in rural areas.

12.36-14.55

Realism in coverage of a vast land-fill site near Glasgow. Ideas and practicalities of getting resources - methane - from rubbish.

14.55-17.07

Interviews with a resident from Easterhouse flats focus on conserving energy. Commentary and indoor and outdoor footage emphasise how health problems (from cold and damp) can be fought through energy conservation. Insulation and solar heating devices are examined.

17.07-18.10

Focus switches to the urban environment and research into using small-scale technologies on city buildings. Strathclyde University demonstrate mini wind and solar units.

18.10-18.45

Commentary sums up by questioning whether large-scale approaches can remain the way forward: sustainability may require more local solutions.