Scottish Parliament has new Climate Legislation

  • 25 Sep 2019
  • Blog

Today the Scottish Parliament voted to support a Climate Bill that commits Scotland to net zero emissions by 2045 and, in a last-minute development, agreed to a 75% reduction of greenhouse emissions by 2030 (on 1990 levels ).  It is very welcome news to Stop Climate Chaos Scotland that politicians decided to support a more ambitious target, and we want to give credit to our members, and to the campaigners and climate strikers, who have campaigned tirelessly on this bill and have created the momentum that made this possible.

 

Tom Ballantine of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland said:

“This Bill sets a strong long-term target to reduce emissions to net-zero by 2045 and drive action in the crucial next decade. We were particularly pleased to see all parties coming together today to increase the 2030 target.

 

“Today’s last minute increase in ambition from Parliament is thanks to extensive public pressure, particularly the incredible youth-led climate marches last week. Campaigners should feel rightly proud of having moved Scotland’s climate action a significant step forward.

 

“Today’s new climate law is not the end; it’s what comes next that will show whether Scotland is really serious about tackling this crisis. Urgent action must follow, with these targets driving rapid and immediate action to move away from fossil fuels in our homes, transport and energy.

 

“With UN talks coming to Glasgow next year, the world will be watching, and we will continue to work with the Scottish Government, all politicians, and the wider climate movement to secure rapid, transformational action and climate justice.”