Race Equality Environmental Project (REEP)

Tackling Racial Inequality in Scotland’s Environmental Sector

At the heart of the Race Equality Environmental Programme (REEP) is a powerful mission: to build an environmental sector in Scotland that is anti-racist, inclusive, and truly reflective of all communities.

Funded by the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and delivered by CEMVO Scotland, REEP supports public and third sector environmental organisations to go beyond tick-box exercises — embedding racial equity and inclusion in ways that are meaningful, measurable, and sustainable.

The Challenge in

Numbers

3.1%

Only 3.1% of people working in the environmental sector come from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Environmental Sector

The environmental sector is the second least diverse in the UK (after agriculture).

Climate Justice Movement

Despite the rise of climate justice movements, ethnic minority voices remain excluded from decision-making, policy development, and green employment.

(Source: Esmee Fairbairn Foundation, ‘Addressing the Lack of Diversity in the Environment Sector’)

About

What We Offer EM community groups:

Collaboration is central to our work. REEP is proud to work in partnership with Scottish Environment LINK, the Ethnic Minority Environmental Network (EMEN), and a wide range of community-led organization to build a more cohesive integrated approach. These relationships help us bridge the gap between environmental policy and racial justice, amplifying the voices of those historically marginalised from green spaces, funding, and leadership.

Together, we co-create solutions, share learning, and push for systemic change across Scotland’s green sector — recognising that the climate emergency cannot be solved without equity at its core.

Our Support – Three Key Areas

1. Bespoke Consultancy
We work directly with organisations to co-design tailored strategies and solutions, including:
– Inclusive recruitment and retention practices
– Equity-centred community engagement
– Policy reviews and anti-racism audits
– Race equality data collection and analysis
2. Trainings & Sector-Wide Workshops
We offer learning sessions and workshops, often delivered in partnership with EMEN, LINK members, and grassroots organisations, covering:
– Racial equity and environmental justice
– Rights-based approaches to environmental work
– Race, climate, and the right to a healthy environment
3. Toolkits & Briefings
Our upcoming Race Equality Toolkit, blog series, and good practice briefings are designed to improve racial literacy, showcase community voices, and support the sector to move from intent to impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the programme?
Any public or third sector organisation working in or alongside Scotland’s environmental or green sector.

Is the support fully funded?
Yes — the programme is fully funded by the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation.

Ready to Take Action?

Join REEP and help reshape Scotland’s environmental sector into one that’s equitable, inclusive, and just. Whether you’re a funder, policymaker, community group, or green employer, there’s a role for you in building a sector that serves everyone — and leaves no one behind.

Key Contact

Get in touch today:

info@cemvoscotland.org.uk virginia.toyi@cemvoscotland.org.uk