The Scottish Government passes its most aggressive climate change legislation to date

26 June 2009

The Scottish Government has passed new legislation to tackle climate change, committing itself to slashing emissions by 80 per cent by 2050.

The new law also sets an interim target for 42 per cent cut in emissions by 2020.

Climate Change Minister Stewart Stevenson said, ‘Scotland can be proud of this Bill, the most ambitious and comprehensive piece of climate change legislation anywhere in the world. As a country we are leading global action and expect others to follow our lead as we look to the international summit in Copenhagen this December.

‘While climate change is a threat, it should also be seen as a real opportunity. Harnessing the energy related opportunities presented by Scotland’s natural capital can create tens of thousands of jobs and help us emerge from the current global economic downturn on the back of a strong green economic revival.’

Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger also expressed his support of the Bill, describing it as encouraging to other nations as we approach an international agreement in Copenhagen.

‘Climate change is a global problem that requires a global solution. California has set aggressive greenhouse gas reduction targets, but we need the help of the world to tackle the most pressing environmental issue of our time. (This bill) sends a message to the world that we must act now and we must act swiftly,’ Schwarzenegger added.

Copyright © 2009 NewNet

Tags: climate change

This story was published on Friday, June 26th, 2009 at 12:24 pm and is filed under Europe, energy efficiency, policy. You can follow any responses to article entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

One Response to “The Scottish Government passes its most aggressive climate change legislation to date”

1. Ben Risk says:

   29 June 2009 at 9:12 am

   I’m very pleased to hear that Scotland are taking the lead on climate change. The Scots have always been a pioneering bunch! It certainly adds a bit of muscle having Schwarzeneger back it up too! What ar their new environmental policies? Can the average household take part?

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