It was great to sponsor an event hosted by the Coal Authority last week in the Scottish Parliament.

This was an opportunity for councillors and MSPs from across Scotland to come together to hear more about Mine Water Heat initiatives the Coal Authority are undertaking around the UK.

Making better use of our natural resources is something I have long advocated for in my time as an MSP. I spoke in the Heat Networks Bill that passed through the Scottish Parliament in 2020, I expressed how vital it is for Scotland to tackle our need to decarbonise heating systems as we face a global climate emergency. This remains even more relevant as we not only face a climate emergency but find ourselves facing challenging circumstances in the current cost-of-living crisis.

We must not ignore what lies on our doorstep here in Scotland. In my constituency Midlothian North and Musselburgh, we have an abundance of flooded mine shafts which present great potential for geothermal energy from the water they contain – the same goes for many of our former coalfield communities.

Not only will the development of geothermal energy help Scotland move towards it goals of achieving Net Zero, but it will offer additional benefits to our local economy as well as providing jobs.

If we want to tackle both the climate crisis and the cost-of-living forcing many into fuel poverty, it is essential Scotland leads the way in using the resources it has readily available. We must not sit on our hands and let these opportunities escape us.

Finally, turning to world news, the scenes we have witnessed over the last few days from Türkiye and Syria are heart wrenching. This devasting earthquake has caused a significant loss of life and severe damage to homes and infrastructure.

The Scottish Government is providing £500,000 in humanitarian aid to the DEC Appeal to support those affected with medical care, shelter, food, and clean water. Members of the public can also pledge support and make donations to the DEC Appeal. My thoughts go out to all impacted by this tragedy.