Politicians must get behind low-carbon infrastructure proposals, says Gail Ross
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
North MSP Gail Ross has called on politicians from across the Highlands to get behind plans for a £1.8 billion capital investment in low-carbon infrastructure.
Earlier this month, the Scottish Government announced plans to commit around one per cent of GDP in this year’s budget to reduce Scotland’s carbon emissions.
The budget also proposes to increase support to help transform manufacturing, transport and household energy use as Scotland aims to meet its world-leading target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.
Mrs Ross, the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, said: “Given the increasing impact of climate change both here in Scotland and around the world, it is crucial that we lead by example.
“That’s why the SNP has taken the historic step to commit £1.8 billion in this year’s budget to invest in low-carbon infrastructure across the country.
“This is huge news for my constituents here in Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, and people across Scotland, as we’ll not only reduce our carbon footprint but save cash too by making our homes more energy efficient.
“The SNP is committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2045 and recognises the importance of renewable energy in powering Scotland’s future as a world leader in tackling the global climate crisis. It’s time for MSPs of all parties to take a stand and get behind these proposals.”
Scotland's measures have been backed by Chris Stark, chief executive of the Committee on Climate Change, which gives independent advice to government on building a low-carbon economy and preparing for climate change.
He said: "We’re pleased to see climate change taking centre stage in Scotland’s budget. Scotland has committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2045, five years earlier than the UK as a whole, so funding for difficult-to-decarbonise areas such as heat and agriculture is welcome.
“Ahead of the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow in November, Scotland and the UK must demonstrate that they can lead the world in tackling climate change. Turning ambitious targets into fully funded policies which deliver real emissions cuts are part of that story. These announcements show that Scotland is serious about the scale, and importance, of the net-zero challenge.”
