Edinburgh’s Past Holds Lessons for a Greener Future

Scottish Climate Week has sparked important conversations about how we adapt to a changing climate reshaping our cities. Across Scotland, communities, councils, and campaigners have showcased practical ways to build resilience. Now, as we take stock, it’s worth reflecting not only on the future we are planning, but also on the lessons of our past.

Much of Edinburgh’s historic built environment predates the era of cheap energy. Stone tenements, narrow closes, communal greens, and sloping courtyards were shaped by necessity, climate, and community life. These were not just aesthetic choices. They were practical responses to place and environment, models of resourcefulness with lessons that resonate today.

Take the tenement. Thick stone walls offered natural insulation long before central heating. Shared walls reduced heat loss, while the compact Old Town streets allowed people to live, work, and shop within walking distance. This pattern of life reduced the need for transport and encouraged resource-sharing, principles now echoed in today’s talk of 20-minute neighbourhoods.

Edinburgh’s Old Town also reveals subtle but ingenious infrastructure. Steep wynds and courtyards once channelled rainwater. Buildings were oriented to catch natural light and airflow, what we now describe as passive design. Materials such as sandstone, slate, and lime mortars were not only locally sourced and low-carbon, they were repairable and reusable. What we call the circular economy today was once simply the craft of building well with what was close at hand.

Case Study: Canongate Tenements

Between 2015 and 2020, three historic tenements on the Canongate underwent a major conservation programme led by Edinburgh World Heritage and Historic Environment Scotland. Original stonework, sash and case windows, chimney heads, roofs, gutters, and rainwater goods were repaired, while red lime harling was reinstated to restore the buildings’ character. This project shows how conservation and resilience go hand in hand: traditional materials and methods not only preserve historic fabric but also prepare buildings to withstand future challenges. It is a reminder that retrofitting heritage does not erase character, it strengthens it.

Of course, historic buildings also present challenges, and retrofitting for energy efficiency must be done with care. But too often conservation is cast as a brake on climate action, when in fact it can be a catalyst. Edinburgh’s architectural heritage is not just something to shield from climate change; it is a resource that can help us adapt to it.

As we reflect on Climate Week, let’s look again at the wisdom already hidden in plain sight. The past cannot solve the climate crisis on its own, but it can guide us towards living more wisely with its consequences. By seeing our city differently, through the lens of resilience rather than nostalgia, we open ourselves to forms of climate action that are grounded, culturally rich, and deeply connected to place. After all, sustainability is not only about new technology and targets. It is also about tradition, ingenuity, and the enduring lessons of how communities once thrived by working with what they had.

Further Reading

• Edinburgh World Heritage: The Canongate Tenements – A case study showing how traditional materials and conservation practice can support resilience.
• Historic Environment Scotland: Climate Change and the Historic Environment – An overview of how HES is tackling climate impacts across Scotland’s historic environment.
• Guide to Energy Retrofit of Traditional Buildings (HES publication) – Guidance on improving energy efficiency in traditional buildings while preserving historic fabric.
• Saving Energy in Traditional Buildings (HES advice for owners) – Practical tips for homeowners on draught-proofing, insulation, and efficient repairs.
• Net Zero Nation – Scotland’s Climate Week – A hub of practical actions, toolkits, and events for individuals, schools, businesses, and communities across Scotland
• Edinburgh: Our City, Our Heritage, Our Future – Cockburn Association Book – Our recent publication exploring the city’s past, present and future challenges.

New from ECCAN: ClimateJam Podcast

To celebrate Scottish Climate Week 2025 ECCAN launched  ClimateJam, ECCAN’s new podcast. Each episode explores climate, community, and Edinburgh with guests who bring their insights and experiences to the conversation.