The Scottish Government's world-leading legislation to tackle climate change has been passed by MSPs in the Parliament.

The Bill sets a target of reducing emissions by 80% by 2050, including emissions from international aviation and shipping. It also sets an interim target for a 42% cut in emissions by 2020.

Climate Change Minister Stewart Stevenson said: "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.


"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."

Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger also gave his backing to the Bill.

He said: "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.

"Scotland's ambitious and comprehensive targets encourage other nations to step up to the plate as we look toward an international agreement in Copenhagen, and it sends a message to the world that we must act now and we must act swiftly."

More than 21,000 responses were received to the Scottish Government's consultation on a draft Climate Change Bill.

(GK/JM)