Scotland gets tough on greenhouse gasses

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2009-05-05
st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } The decision by the Scottish Government to set strong targets in the Climate Change bill and to put measures in place to ensure carbon reductions take place in Scotland, not through international carbon trading, has been welcomed by Lothians MSP and Climate Change Committee member Shirley-Anne Somerville. The Scottish Government’s announcement ensures Scotland’s Climate Change legislation will not only be world leading, but will have a real impact on Scotland’s contribution to cutting climate change. Ms Somerville said; “The SNP committed to bringing forward world-leading climate change legislation and that is what the Scottish Government has done. “I welcome the introduction of a target of 34% by 2020 and in particular the government’s willingness to increase this target as the EU reaches agreement on international measures. “Cutting carbon emissions and meeting our climate change targets will not be easy, but together we’ve got what it takes to meet these targets and to see Scotland lead the world in action against climate change. “The SNP has always been committed to seeing carbon reduction take place in Scotland and the Government’s proposals to limit the use of carbon credits is a welcome step.  “As we face the economic downturn we in Scotland have what it takes to get through the tough times.  Taking action on climate change gives us the potential to create jobs and boost our economy with investment in new technologies as industry takes steps to become greener. Minister for Transport, Infrastructure & Climate Change Stuart Stevenson said:   "Climate change is the greatest environmental threat facing humankind and if global action isn't taken to reduce emissions significantly the world faces an uncertain future. This Scottish Government is taking a leading role, introducing the most ambitious climate change legislation anywhere in the world.   "The Bill sets a target of reducing Scotland's greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050, including emissions from international aviation and shipping. But 2050 is a long way off and we need to be certain we are taking effective action now. That is why this Government has insisted on the inclusion of annual targets, including the addition of a new much tougher 2020 interim target.   "The actions we take today can bring clear and tangible benefits to Scotland now and in the future. In these challenging economic times we need to play to our strengths and build the low carbon economy of the future. Last week's carbon capture study shows that Scotland has the ability to safely accommodate industrial emissions generated in Scotland and North East of England for the next 200 years, confirming we are European leaders in this field.   "Achieving these targets will be challenging. But I am confident that Government, business and the people of Scotland are ready to rise to the challenge."   The Bill will establish a legal framework for emissions reductions in the run up to 2050.   The Scottish Government is currently developing a range of short, medium and long term policy options to drive the changes needed to meet our ambitious targets. These options will be published in the summer.