New proposals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90%

The Scottish Government is to launch a public consultation as it plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 90% by 2050.

Climate change secretary Roseanna Cunningham said the proposed Climate Change Bill will see Scotland’s status as an international climate change leader reinforced by further raising its already world-leading emissions reduction targets.

Ms Cunningham announced details in the Scottish Parliament during a statement on the publication of 2015 statistics which show Scotland met its annual target for the second consecutive year.

She also set out measures the Scottish Government will take to support these climate change ambitions.

These include:

Ms Cunningham said: “Our proposals to reduce emissions by at least 90% by 2050 clearly indicates to the people of Scotland that we remain resolutely committed to the fight against climate change.

“Scotland has long punched above its weight on this issue. Moving towards new targets in our proposed Climate Change Bill will strengthen our position at the forefront of the global transition to a low carbon economy.

“As a country which has an international reputation as a climate change leader there is now a huge opportunity to reap the economic and social benefits of our efforts and for us to become a more sustainable economy. We are determined to seize this opportunity, and fulfil our moral obligations to future generations.”