SCCS calls on Ministers to strengthen climate change legislation

Date: 20 September 2010

Climate campaigners today called on Ministers to use their powers to strengthen Scotland's world leading climate legislation.


Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) welcomed a consultation on draft guidance to public bodies on their new climate change duties, which come into force in January.

The duties say that public bodies must consider climate change in all they do and act in the ways best calculated to help deliver the tough targets on cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Public bodies must also adapt to future changes in the climate in a sustainable way. But the reporting regime is only voluntary, meaning it may have gaps and so may not provide sufficient information to help monitor what action is being taken across Scotland by the public sector.

SCCS said that Ministers should use their statutory powers under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 to set up an effective mandatory annual reporting system. This would underpin the success of the new duties and should include proper scrutiny of the reports.

Tom Ballantine, Chair of SCCS, said: "Early action on cutting emissions is vital to preventing runaway climate change. If we don't get the reporting system right from the start, we could lose valuable time and Scotland would be at risk of a dangerous early delay in meeting its world leading targets.

"This would damage confidence at a time when the public sector and the Scottish Government should be leading by example and driving forward the policies to deliver the targets."

Dave Watson, UNISON Scottish Organiser, said: "We have ample evidence from other reporting regimes that not only do voluntary measures not deliver the information you need, but the organisations themselves would also welcome a reporting template which they can incorporate into their existing annual reporting mechanisms. The guidance should provide this."

SCCS will be submitting a response to the consultation that also argues for more emphasis in the guidance on involving the workforce and the general public in what their local councils, health boards and other public bodies are doing to protect the planet.

Dave added: "We won't achieve these targets without bringing on board everyone in Scotland and the public sector has a crucial role. The guidance must make that clear and encourage a bottom up approach, not a top down one.

"The most important thing that is needed is a step change where all public bodies incorporate climate change into their business planning so that it is routinely taken into account in decision-making.

"If that is happening, it will be straightforward to report on what the organisation is doing to comply with the duty. With mandatory annual reporting and proper monitoring we will be able to effectively assess the overall picture to see if we are on course to meet the targets."


ENDS


Notes to editors


The Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Consultation can be viewed online on the consultation web pages of the Scottish Government website at www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/09/16112110/0


Stop Climate Chaos Scotland is a diverse and growing alliance with over 60 Scottish members representing more than two million supporters, ranging from environment and international development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies and many more.

www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

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The Wave floods into Glasgow to demand action on climate change

For Immediate Release Sat 5 Dec

THE WAVE FLOODS INTO GLASGOW TO DEMAND ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE

8000 joined The Wave, Scotland’s biggest ever demonstration to demand action on climate change

The people of Scotland sent a strong message to world leaders today (Saturday 5 December) ahead of vital climate change talks in Copenhagen next week.

The Wave, a family-friendly march through the streets of Glasgow, demonstrated the concern felt by ordinary people that world leaders meeting in Copenhagen for the forthcoming UN summit should share Scotland’s ambition on climate change, that the poorest must be protected and that nations must act fair and fast to address the problem.

Those who marched from Bellahouston Park to Kelvingrove Park enjoyed a range of entertainment from speeches and live music to events specially laid on for the many children present.

The Wave was organised by Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS), which represents over 60 organisations and 2 million people across Scotland - including Oxfam, Christian Aid, SCIAF and WWF - the largest civil society coalition since Make Poverty History in 2005. There were simultaneous Waves in Belfast, Dublin, London, Paris, Brussels and Berlin.
Mike Robinson, Chair of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland said:

“I am delighted so many people braved the December weather to take a stand against climate change. Scotland has the strongest climate legislation in the world and the turn out today shows why – people care. Leaders meeting in Copenhagen over the next two weeks should be in no doubt, the eyes of the world are on them and we must see the western world in particular, setting the scale and immediacy of targets we know we need to prevent runaway climate change.”


Selina Shelley, an Oxfam Global Campaigner from Bangladesh, who spoke
at The Wave march, said:
“In my home country of Bangladesh, people are struggling every day to cope with
the impacts of climate change. Floods, natural disasters and severe weather events
are robbing families of their children and taking homes, jobs, food and water.
“World leaders meeting in Copenhagen next week must strike a fair and binding deal
to cut emissions and prevent people living in countries like Bangladesh suffering
further from climate change.”

Stuart Housden, Director of RSPB Scotland, said:

"RSPB believes that birds and wildlife are already showing visible signs of how our climate is changing around us. Like the canary in the coal mine, they are alerting us to the dangers ahead. These signs of rapid environmental change are already upon us, with, for example, our sea-bird cliffs along North Sea coasts in summer a pale shadow of their former glories, as birds like puffins and kittiwakes struggle to find the food they need.

"The politicians in Copenhagen must show courage and come up with a binding agreement to cut our emissions and reliance on carbon fuels. Our best hope for averting dangerous climate change is by acting now."

Ends

Notes to Editors

[1] Key demands of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland

Share Scotland’s ambition - Earlier this year, the Scottish Parliament passed the most progressive climate change legislation in the world. This Act sets vital international precedents and is an example that other wealthy nations must follow. SCCS wants to see the UK government ensure that developed nations commit to at least the same ambition as Scotland.

Protect the poorest - SCCS calls on the UK and other wealthy governments to provide their fair share of the resources needed, on top of existing aid commitments, to help people in poor countries adapt to climate change. This means ensuring that the EU commits to delivering at least $150 billion new and additional public financing from 2012 which is vital if developing nations are to be protected from the devastating impacts of climate change caused by others.

Act fair and fast - SCCS calls on the UK Government to push urgently for a fair global deal in Copenhagen, which limits global warming to under 2 degrees C. The UK must commit to reducing its carbon emissions by at least 42% by 2020 through domestic action, and call on other rich countries to do the same.

[2] At the UN Copenhagen Climate Change Summit Dec 7-18, world leaders will agree a new international climate deal that will come into force when the first phase of the Kyoto treaty expires in 2012. http://en.cop15.dk/

[3] Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS), which represents over 60 organisations and 2 million people across Scotland http://www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland
For more information on The Wave www.the-wave.org.uk/scotland

SCCS welcome for stronger climate change focus for water industry

MEDIA STATEMENT

Attn: Newsdesks, political & environment correspondents

Immediate release Thursday 26 November 2009

WELCOME FOR STRONGER CLIMATE CHANGE FOCUS FOR WATER INDUSTRY

Climate change campaigners today welcomed moves to ensure Scotland’s water industry contributes more to the country’s world leading greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets.

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is pleased that the Scottish Government and the Water Industry Commission for Scotland have moved to make climate change a higher priority in Scottish Water’s objectives and investment plan.

This follows criticism from SCCS and pressure from members of the Scottish Parliament’s Transport Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee.

Mike Robinson, Chair of the SCCS coalition, said: “We strongly welcome the fact that climate change objectives for Scottish Water have now been moved from priority two to priority one, as priority two objectives were unlikely to be funded.

“At this crucial time in tackling global warming, it is important that public bodies such as Scottish Water help lead the way in protecting the planet and contributing to the important Scottish targets of reducing emissions by 42% by 2020 and 80% by 2050.”

Dave Watson, Scottish Organiser, UNISON, said: “As one of the biggest electricity consumers, Scottish Water has the potential to make huge savings in energy costs.

“Work on tackling leaks will help reduce electricity consumption and was already properly being prioritised, but it is right that Scottish Water’s objectives now reflect the new climate change duties on public bodies which will come into force in January 2011.

“All public bodies should be looking now at how they will ensure they comply with the new duties.”

Lloyd Austin, Head of Policy at RSPB Scotland, said: “We are pleased that today’s Final Determination from the Water Industry Commission for Scotland has taken account of concerns raised by SCCS and others and now has a stronger focus on the importance of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

The Water Industry Commission for Scotland’s Final Determination for 2010-2015 was published today (26 Nov), setting price limits on water charges, which determine Scottish Water’s investment plan. www.watercommission.co.uk/UserFiles/Documents/Final%20Determination%20document.pdf

All public bodies will soon have new duties under the world-leading Climate Change (Scotland) Act to contribute to greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and to plans to adapt to deal with flooding and other problems caused by global warming.

SCCS urged the water industry to prioritise new climate obligations in responding to the Water Industry Commission for Scotland’s (WICS) Draft Determination on 22 September 2009 www.stopclimatechaos.org/node/2126

Sir Ian Byatt, WICS Chairman, was quizzed on the Draft Determination on Tuesday 22 September at the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee at the Scottish Parliament. The Committee Chair subsequently wrote to Climate Change Minister Stewart Stevenson whose response is at www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/917/0089248.pdf

Information on the new public bodies Climate Change Duties is at www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/climatechange/scotlands-action/climatechangeact/publicsector

The Wave - Scotland’s biggest ever demonstration in support of action on climate change – takes place in Glasgow on Saturday 5 December 2009, timed to coincide with the crucial UN climate summit in Copenhagen. Tens of thousands of people will gather in Glasgow and London. The Wave is organised by Stop Climate Chaos Scotland. www.the-wave.org.uk/scotland/

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 60 Scottish members, representing more than 2 million supporters (40% of the Scottish population), ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. SCCS was instrumental in securing a strong climate act for Scotland. For full details visit http://www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

Climate change is a health and safety issue for the planet – trade unions call for strong Copenhagen deal

Below, left to rt: Grahame Smith (STUC), Mike Robinson (SCCS) and Matt Smith (UNISON).

'Mexican Wave' video is at www.the-wave.org.uk/with/383/

Date: Tues 24 November

Scottish trade unions warned today (Tue 24 Nov) that climate change is an urgent health and safety issue for the planet and its people, and called on world leaders to reach a strong deal in Copenhagen.

The are also urging their members to support The Wave, Scotland’s largest ever climate change demonstration, in Glasgow on Saturday 5 December.

Scottish Trade Union Congress General Secretary Grahame Smith said that it is vital that the UN talks in Copenhagen in December (7th-18th) secure an ambitious, just and legally binding deal to cut greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.

He joined UNISON’s Scottish Secretary Matt Smith and Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) Chair Mike Robinson in leading a Mexican Wave the UNISON staff conference, to support The Wave event.

The family friendly ‘Wave’ demonstration is organised by SCCS, the largest civil society coalition since Make Poverty History in 2005. Similar events are being run in London and around the world to show the strength of public support for a strong UN climate deal.

Grahame Smith said:
"Climate change is a trade union issue – an urgent health and safety issue for the planet and its people.

"Trade unionists internationally want world leaders to agree a deal that is fair to developing countries, whose people are already being hit the hardest, and fair to working people by ensuring a just transition to a low carbon future. That is why our members will be supporting The Wave."

Matt Smith said:
"UNISON Scotland worked hard with other members of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland to lobby for the world leading Scottish Climate Change Act that we hope will be an example to other countries at these crucial talks.

"Trade unions also want to see action on climate change in every workplace across Scotland."

Mike Robinson said:
"The Wave on Dec 5th promises to be a great demonstration of support for a strong climate deal in Copenhagen and Stop Climate Chaos Scotland welcomes trade union support.

"We want to encourage thousands of people across Scotland to join us and send a clear message to world leaders at these crucial talks.

"We need a safe planet for people to live on. It is vital that other industrialised nations share Scotland’s ambition by making substantial cuts to their greenhouse gas emissions. We have a responsibility to protect the poorest and those most affected and that means committing to fair and fast action to prevent dangerous climate change."


ends

Notes to Editors:

The Wave will start at 11am in Bellahouston Park on 5 December, with a march to Kelvingrove Park where there will be a rally with live music, speakers, face-painting, kite-making and stalls. Full details on The Wave are at: www.the-wave.org.uk/scotland ‘Mexican Wave’ videos showing supporters of The Wave are at: http://the-wave.org.uk/

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse and growing alliance with over 60 Scottish members representing more than two million supporters, ranging from environment and international development groups (SCIAF, Oxfam, WWF, etc) to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more (see www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland).

UN Copenhagen Climate Change Summit: world leaders will agree a new international climate deal that will come into force when the first phase of the Kyoto treaty expires in 2012.

The STUC/Scottish Government 2009 communiqué on climate change is at: www.stuc.org.uk/news/643/stuc-and-scottish-government-issue-joint-communique-on-climate-change



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Water industry must prioritise new climate obligations, says SCCS

MEDIA STATEMENT

Attn: Newsdesks, political & environment correspondents

Immediate release

Tuesday 22 September 2009

Water industry must prioritise new climate obligations


Climate change campaigners today urged Scotland’s water industry regulator to ensure that it and Scottish Water prioritise complying with new climate change legislation.

The call is a response to the Water Industry Commission for Scotland’s consultation on its draft determination (proposal), which sets price limits on water charges. The Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) coalition is concerned that the resulting current investment plan for Scottish Water, one of the country’s biggest electricity consumers, would only finance climate change objectives ‘if possible’.

The draft determination for 2010-2014 concentrates on Priority 1 objectives set by the Scottish Government, while climate change is Priority 2.

Yet all public bodies will soon have new duties under the world-leading Climate Change (Scotland) Act to contribute to greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and to plans to adapt to deal with flooding and other problems caused by global warming.

SCCS, which includes unions, environmental and international development organisations, said that excluding action on climate change objectives from the business plan that runs halfway to 2020 makes no sense when urgent early action is required to achieve the Act’s interim target of 42% emission cuts by 2020.

SCCS Chair Mike Robinson said: “The Scottish Government and wider public sector should be leading by example to help meet the important 42% target.

“It is extremely disappointing that Ministers set climate change as only a Priority 2 objective for Scottish Water, while limiting charge rises in a way that severely restricts options for spending on Priority 2 objectives.

“We have written to the Water Industry Commission for Scotland urging it to make funds available to Scottish Water so it can meet climate change objectives and new duties under the Act in this investment cycle.”

Lloyd Austin, Head of Policy, RSPB Scotland, said: "As one of the biggest electricity consumers, Scottish Water has the potential to make huge energy savings which will help reduce the long term costs to consumers.

"Early action on climate change adaptation and mitigation will not only help achieve statutory requirements but also ensure the long-term future and viability of the water industry."

Dave Watson, Scottish Organiser, UNISON, said: "There is a lesson here for all public bodies as their new climate change duties will come into force in less than 18 months.

"In planning ahead and preparing budgets, they should be ensuring they can comply with the new duties.

“At Scottish Water there is potential for huge savings in energy costs and this requires strategic planning and prioritisation of investment that the regulator must allow for. The overall objective is to protect the planet for future generations. People expect the public sector to take a lead on this crucial issue."

ENDS




Notes to Editors

1. The deadline for commenting on the WICS Draft Determination is Wed 23 Sep. The Draft Determination is at www.watercommission.co.uk/view_Determination.aspx
2. Sir Ian Byatt, WICS Chairman, is giving evidence on the Draft Determination today (Tuesday 22) to the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee at the Scottish Parliament.
3. SCCS believes that the Ministerial objectives on climate change as already given to Scottish Water are essential in fulfilling the new duties but without investment they risk not being achieved. Obviously objectives which are required by European Law must be met, and we have no argument with including, for example, Drinking Water Quality as a Priority 1. To reduce electricity consumption, investment is needed to help reduce leaks and encourage consumers to use water more wisely, thereby avoiding pumping water unncecessarily. Scottish Water’s energy demand is currently rising by one and two per cent each year. See www.scottishwater.co.uk/portal/page/portal/SWE_PGP_ABOUT_US/SWE_PGE_ABOUT_US/FIND_ABT_CLIM
4. Information on the new public bodies Climate Change Duties is at www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/climatechange/scotlands-action/climatechangeact/publicsector
5. The Wave - Scotland’s biggest ever demonstration in support of action on climate change – takes place in Glasgow on Saturday 5 December 2009, timed to coincide with the crucial UN climate summit in Copenhagen. Tens of thousands of people will gather in Glasgow and London. The Wave is organised by Stop Climate Chaos Scotland. www.stopclimatechaos.org/thewavescotland
6. Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 60 Scottish members, representing more than 2 million supporters (40% of the Scottish population), ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. SCCS was instrumental in securing a strong climate act for Scotland. For full details visit http://www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

Royal Assent for Scotland's world leading climate legislation

Attn: News Desks
Immediate Release
5th August 2009

QUEEN APPROVES SCOTLAND’S WORLD-LEADING
CLIMATE CHANGE LEGISLATION

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II today made history by giving Royal Assent to The Scottish Climate Change Bill, the strongest piece of climate change legislation in the world.

The world-leading Act sets vital international precedents and an example for other wealthy nations to follow ahead of the UN’s climate change talks in Copenhagen in December, which will agree a replacement to the Kyoto Protocol.

The new legislation enshrines in law Scotland’s obligation to reduce the country’s greenhouse gas emissions by at least 42 per cent by 2020 and 80 per cent by 2050. Other rich countries need to adopt similar cuts to their emissions if catastrophic climate change is to be averted.

Queen Elizabeth signed the historic Act during a visit to her estate in Balmoral in Scotland. The Climate Change (Scotland) Bill was unanimously voted through the Scottish Parliament on 24th June this year.

Leading elements of the Scottish Act include:

· At least a 42% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 (based on 1990 levels)
· At least an 80% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 (based on 1990 levels)
· Emissions from international aviation & shipping included from the start;
· Commitment to report annually on consumption-based emissions;
· Strong duty across the public sector to play a full part in tackling Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Cardinal Keith O’Brien, Scotland’s most senior Catholic clergyman and climate change campaigner said:

“Scotland is setting a crucial example to the rich countries of the world in efforts to prevent the unnecessary suffering of millions of innocent people through ever-worsening climate change. The scientific consensus is clear; unless rich nations make early and deep cuts to their emissions, as Scotland has agreed to do, the situation will get much worse.

“Wealthy countries have an unequivocal moral duty to reduce their own emissions and help developing countries who are already suffering the consequences of our profligate use of fossil fuels for economic gain.

“Scotland has had the courage to set a vital international precedent with its Climate Change (Scotland) Act. Others must follow this lead now if we are to have a long, safe, and prosperous future for humanity on earth.”

Stewart Stevenson, Minister for Climate Change in the Scottish Government, said:

“The Scottish Government recognises that climate change will have far reaching effects on Scotland's economy, its people and its environment and is determined to play its part in rising to this challenge.

“The world-leading legislation introduces targets to reduce emissions by at least 80 per cent by 2050, and will drive new thinking, new solutions and new technologies putting Scotland at the forefront of building a sustainable low carbon economy.”

Mike Robinson, chair of the Stop Climate Chaos Scotland coalition, which includes Oxfam, Christian Aid, SCIAF, WWF, Friends of the Earth, as well faith organisations and trade unions, said:

“It is now enshrined in law that Scotland will do its fair share to tackle the causes of climate change. The world-leading emissions reduction targets provide a vital lead to other wealthy nations ahead of the UN’s climate talks in Copenhagen in December. Other rich countries must now follow Scotland’s lead and match the commitment to cut their emissions. I hope they will sit up and take notice.

“The scientific consensus is clear: unless developed nations reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by at least 42 per cent by 2020 and 80 per cent by 2050 the problem of dangerous climate change will become irreversible.”


Ends

Notes to editors:

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 60 Scottish members, representing more than 2 million supporters (40% of the Scottish population), ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. SCCS was instrumental in securing a strong climate act for Scotland. For full details visit http://www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

In December world leaders will gather in Copenhagen to agree a new UN international climate deal that will come into force when the first phase of the Kyoto treaty expires in 2012. For more info see http://en.cop15.dk/

For more info on how the Scottish Act can make a difference in Copenhagen, see http://www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

On Saturday December 5, tens of thousands of people will gather in Glasgow and London to call for action on climate change. For more info see http://www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NB: UNISON Scotland is a member of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland. For further information on UNISON's climate change and environment work see the Green Workplace pages on our website. www.unison-scotland.org.uk/greenworkplace

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The Herald: MPs back target to reduce emissions by 42%

MPs back target to reduce emissions by 42%

Robbie Dinwoodie, Chief Scottish Political Correspondent
Date: 25 June 2009

Scotland yesterday made itself a world leader in the battle against global warming, as MSPs gave unanimous backing to a bill enshrining a 42% cut in carbon emissions by the year 2020.

It means that abroadScotland will be lauded as the most forward-looking nation in the world in the run-up to the Copenhagen environmental summit later this year. But behind the rhetoric at Holyrood it was accepted that there were many caveats to the commitment.

Green MSP Patrick Harvie said the climate change legislation was a good thing, and a victory for campaign groups. "Without this overwhelming pressure from outside parliament, we would not have made the progress that we've made, as we've seen this bill develop in the last few months," he said.

But He conceded that a degree of "posturing" had taken place across political parties and added: He added: "My message on where we go from here is primarily to the campaigners, to the activists, because its their work that will continue to be vital if we're going to make the commitments we've made a reality."...

Scotland leads the world in fight against climate change, says SCCS

MEDIA STATEMENT

Wednesday 24^th June 2009

SCOTLAND “LEADS THE WORLD” IN FIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE

Scotland today laid down a challenge to the rest of the world, including the UK Government, by passing the most ambitious climate change targets in the industrialised world.

The Scottish Parliament unanimously agreed to cut the country’s emissions by 42% by 2020, and at least 80% by 2050, setting the benchmark for the rest of the world at this year’s UN Climate Change summit at Copenhagen.

The outcome represents a huge victory for the Stop Climate Chaos Scotland coalition, a diverse coalition of 70 organisations campaigning on climate change and representing around 40% of Scotland’s population.

Mike Robinson, Chair of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland said:

“This is a truly momentous day. The Scottish Parliament has voted for legislation that will be held up as an example to the world ahead of climate talks in Copenhagen in December.

“At a vital time ahead of the UN’s talks to put in place an agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol in Copenhagen, world governments have been set an example by Scotland which we would urge them to follow if we are to avoid catastrophic climate change.”

“In particular, this presents a challenge to the UK Government. By supporting this bill, Labour MSPs at Holyrood have been much more ambitious than their government colleagues at Westminster. If the Labour Party believe it is the right thing for Scotland, it must surely be the right thing for the UK as a whole.

“Uniquely, Scotland’s targets are guided by science as opposed to political expediency. They are based on what we have to do, rather than what we feel we can do. This is a positive and rational response to a global challenge, and we are calling on governments across the world to follow suit.”

Leading elements of the bill include:

• At least a 42% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 (based on 1990 levels)

• At least an 80% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 (based on 1990 levels)

• Emissions from international aviation & shipping to be included from the start

• Strong duty across the public sector to play a full part in tackling Scotland’s greenhouse gas emission.

• Commitment to report annually on consumption-based emissions – note 1

Ends

1 – Consumption-based emissions are those that arise from a country’s consumption patterns, as opposed to the actual amount of greenhouse gas arising in the particular country. This means reporting will therefore include emissions relating to imported goods & services.

Notes to editors:

- Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 60 Scottish members, representing more than 2 million supporters (40% of the Scottish population), ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. For full details visit www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

- In December world leaders will gather in Copenhagen to agree a new UN international climate deal that will come into force when the first phase of the Kyoto treaty expires in 2012

Scots climate bill on verge of leading the world, says SCCS

MEDIA RELEASE

sent on behalf of STOP CLIMATE CHAOS SCOTLAND

For immediate use: Tuesday 23 June 2009

SCOTLAND'S CLIMATE BILL ON THE VERGE OF LEADING THE WORLD - SAY CAMPAIGNERS Coalition group hails Government amendment and urges MSPs to fix remaining loopholes.

Scotland's climate change legislation is once again on the verge of being 'world leading' said campaigners today (Tuesday 23 June). The Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) coalition made the call in response to a Scottish Government amendment tabled last night, after the main deadline, which calls for a reduction of 42% in Scotland's climate emissions by 2020 from 1990 levels. [1] Until last night the Government was only supporting a 34% reduction from the start.

The Government amendment is to amend a Labour one, which proposed a 40% reduction target. Both the Liberal Democrats and Greens had tabled amendments which called for even more.

The campaigners urged politicians from all parties to support the Government amendment, due to be voted on by MSPs for the final time tomorrow (24 June), and fix some last remaining elements of the bill, including ensuring the vast majority of pollution cuts take place here in Scotland and rejecting amendments that would dramatically weaken the climate change duty on public bodies already agreed.

During tomorrow, over 100 campaigners from across Scotland will directly lobby their MSP calling for the strongest possible Scottish Climate Change Bill. [2]

Mike Robinson, Chair of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland said:

"We warmly welcome this late amendment from the Government and we offer it our unequivocal support. With this decision our politicians can begin to restore the public's faith in democracy - exactly what is needed if the world is to overcome climate change. By amending the target this bill finally begins to addresses the urgency with which we need to deal with this issue, listens to what the science is telling us, and takes account of the growing public consensus that a target of 42% is required."

"Almost all the parties have rallied round the need for a higher interim target. We urge politicians of all parties to support this amendment tomorrow and other amendments to fix some last remaining elements of the bill, including ensuring the vast majority of pollution cuts take place here in Scotland and rejecting plans that would dramatically weaken the climate change duty on public bodies already agreed."

Ends


NOTES TO EDITORS:

[1] New amendments to Bills lodged on 22 June 2009 Climate Change (Scotland) Bill - Stage 3

Stewart Stevenson

94A As an amendment to amendment 94, line 4, leave out <40%> and insert <42%>

See full amendment:

http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/business/businessBulletin/bb-09/bb-06-23g.htm

[2] SCOTTISH CLIMATE CHANGE BILL - FINAL VOTE, WED JUNE 24 MASS LOBBY OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT

What: Scotland's first CLIMATE MASS LOBBY
Where: Scottish Parliament
When: Wednesday June 24. Meet 12 noon at SCCS registration tent on the grass outside the Scottish Parliament; mass lobby 1230-2.30pm in Committee Room 1
Why: For a world-leading climate law

On Wednesday, MSPs have the chance to make history by voting for a stronger Climate Change Bill. During the day of the vote, over 100 campaigners from across Scotland will directly lobby their MSPs.

[3] Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 60 Scottish members, representing more than 2 million supporters, ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. For full details visit http://www.blogger.com/www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

[4] In December world leaders will gather in Copenhagen to agree a new international climate deal that will come into force when the first phase of the Kyoto treaty expires in 2012.

[5] SCCS will be helping organise a Climate Change march in Glasgow on 5th December.

The Herald: SNP bows to green lobby and amends carbon emissions cut

SNP bows to green lobby and amends carbon emissions cut
Robbie Dinwoodie, Chief Scottish Political Correspondent
Date: 23 June 2009

The Scottish Government last night bowed to pressure from political opponents and the Green lobby and increased their target to cut carbon emissions by 42% by 2020.
But ministers made clear that the new target, which will be enshrined in tomorrow's Climate Change Bill, will have conditions set on it regarding EU and UK measures which could impinge on Scotland's ability to lead the way in terms of climate change.
Ministers last night introduced a manuscript amendment, to raise the ante on a Labour amendment specifying 40% as a target.
The effect will be that a 34% cut with the option to boost that to 42% under certain conditions will be reversed - to a 42% target on the face of the bill subject to expert advice that external factors make that possible.
Labour had backed the 34% target in committee but then in recent days had switched to calling for a 40% figure, with the backing of the Greens, LibDems and climate change campaigners.
This made a defeat for the government a real prospect…

SCCS welcomes energy efficiency measures in Climate Change Bill

NEWS RELEASE

For immediate release: Tuesday 9 June 2009

CLIMATE CAMPAIGNERS WELCOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES IN CLIMATE CHANGE BILL

Scottish campaigners representing over 1.5 million people across Scotland have welcomed amendments to deliver greater energy efficiency which have been approved by the Scottish Parliament committee scrutinising the Climate Change Bill today [1].

Amongst the amendments approved, were several put forward by Sarah Boyack MSP which will allow householders to receive discounts of up to £250 on their Council Tax bill if they install insulation or small-scale renewables. This measure was approved by MSPs on the committee by five votes in favour to three against. [2]

Speaking after the vote, Mike Robinson, chair of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland said:

“Achieving greater energy efficiency in Scotland is the first step on the road to a safe climate future. If we are to cut greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland by 80% by 2050 greater energy efficiency is a vital part of achieving this.

“Whilst we welcome these and other measures included in the Bill, the low target of cutting greenhouse gases by only 34% by 2020 – only 2% higher than current trends - is still a real concern. The scientific community is telling us that cuts of at least 42% are needed to avoid catastrophic climate change. With the potential for further amendments to be made to strengthen the Bill it is not too late for our MSPs to take the action that is needed.”

Chas Booth from the Association for the Conservation of Energy, a member of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, added,

“Energy efficiency is the cheapest, quickest and easiest way to cut carbon emissions, and also has the benefit of cutting people’s fuel bills too. Sarah Boyack’s amendment is an excellent example of using incentives to encourage energy saving behaviour, and we’re delighted the committee has backed her proposals today.”

Other energy efficiency amendments approved by MSPs today include a requirement for the Scottish Government to set tough energy efficiency standards for its own offices; a requirement to remove planning red tape from small-scale renewable installations and powers to local authorities to tackle energy wasted in tenements.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

[1] A full list of amendments debated at the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee is available on the Scottish Parliament website:

http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/s3/bills/17-ClimateChange/index.htm

[2] On amendments 259, 261 and 263 in the name of Sarah Boyack MSP, there voted:

Yes:

Patrick Harvie (Green)

Cathy Peattie (Labour)

Charlie Gordon (Labour)

Des McNulty (Labour)

Alison McInnes (Liberal Democrat)

No:

Rob Gibson (SNP)

Shirley-Anne Somerville (SNP)

Alex Johnstone (Conservative)

[3] Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 40 Scottish members, representing more than 1.5 million supporters, ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. For full details visit www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland.

 

Last Chance to Lobby for stronger Climate Change Bill - 24 June

Lobby 24 June Leaflet (pdf) Stop Climate Chaos Scotland wants to thank everyone who has lobbied their MSPs calling for a strong Climate Change Bill. We have had great feedback from MSPs who have had thousands of e-mails and visits.

The Parliament is likely to make the final changes to the draft law on 24 and 25 June and so we have a last chance to push to get the best climate change legislation in the world. Stop Climate Chaos Scotland is organising a mass lobby of the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday 24th June from 12 – 2.30pm.

We aim to bring people from across Scotland to the parliament to speak directly to their MSPs in support of early, tough action on climate change.

Please sign up now www.foe-scotland.org.uk/masslobby to join us at this crucial event. We will provide you with a fact-sheet before the event and updates on the day with last minute news. And, if you need it, some help with travel costs is available on request. We hope to see you on 24th June.



Stop Climate Chaos Scotland

SCCS Welcomes Important Climate Change Bill Amendments

2 June 2009 For Immediate Release
STATEMENT FROM STOP CLIMATE CHAOS SCOTLAND

The Scottish Parliament Transport Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee resumed today (Tuesday) to continue its discussions on Stage 2 of the Scottish Climate Change Bill.

Reacting to the Committee’s decision to approve Labour MSP Cathy Peattie’s amendment on climate change duty for public bodies:
Mike Robinson, Chair of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, said:

"SCCS is very pleased that the Labour, Liberal Democrat and Green members voted in favour of Cathy Peattie’s amendments. The duty will mean that all public bodies in Scotland will have to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We believe this is an extremely important step in ensuring the public sector leads by example. With a strong 2020 target, this Bill can show real vision, but all the parties need to play a role."

On the amendment tabled by the SNP’s Shirley-Anne Sommerville on consumption reporting which was also approved:
Dr Richard Dixon, Director of WWF Scotland said:

"This is a very important measure. We don’t make steel in Scotland any more but we certainly still use it in products ranging from cars and washing machines to steel beams for buildings. All the emissions from making that steel for us are now counted as some other country's problem. Including annual reporting on consumption means we will be able to see what emissions we are causing around the world by buying goods and services from overseas.

"This will help us to cut our climate footprint at home and abroad, as well as persuading politicians to make our own industries greener rather than exporting both emissions and jobs overseas."

Ends

Notes to editors:
[1] Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 60 Scottish members, representing more than 2 million supporters, ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. For full details visit www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland
[2] In December world leaders will gather in Copenhagen to agree a new international climate deal that will come into force when the first phase of the Kyoto treaty expires in 2012.
[3] SCCS will be helping organise a Climate Change march in Glasgow on 5th December.

SCCS disappointment as SNP and Labour join to frustrate climate change progress

STATEMENT FROM STOP CLIMATE CHAOS SCOTLAND
26 May 2009

DISAPPOINTMENT AS SNP AND LABOUR JOIN TO FRUSTRATE CLIMATE CHANGE PROGRESS

Hopes that Scotland's Climate Change Bill would lead the world were put at risk during today's Stage 2 discussions of the Climate Change Bill by the Scottish Parliament Transport Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee.

The TICC Committee failed to support an amendment to increase the target for cutting greenhouse gases by 42 per cent by 2020. This target would have brought the Bill in line with the scientific consensus of what action needs to be taken and set a strong example for other world governments.

The SNP made a clear manifesto commitment to deliver at least 3 per cent emissions reductions every year which would deliver around a 42 per cent reduction by 2020. However they now propose a target of 34 per cent rising to 42 per cent only if other nations make specified commitments at UN climate meetings in Copenhagen in December, suggesting a reluctance to lead internationally and no more ambitious than the target set by the UK Government.

Mike Robinson, Chair of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, said:

"There has been good progress on a number of areas but on the crucial issue of taking early action to cut Scotland's greenhouse gas emissions the Bill is looking desperately unambitious.

"The LibDems and the Greens provided good amendments to toughen up the 2020 target and deliver strong year-on-year reductions from the start. Other parties have not risen to the challenge unfortunately.

"The SNP have failed to deliver on their manifesto promise of 3 per cent cuts every year and on the First Minister's claim that the Scottish Bill would be more ambitious in every way than the UK Climate Change Act. In the end, the SNP have proposed a 2020 emissions target which is no more ambitious than the UK Act, even though they have already told the Climate Committee that they can do more.

"The position of Labour is the biggest disappointment. They have talked eloquently about the need for rapid action in the early years, but when they had the chance they failed to put in any credible proposals of their own or support those proposed by others. You have to question whether Labour is serious about having a tough Climate Change Act.

"They have one last opportunity in three weeks to make good on their rhetoric".

Currently this Bill does not live up to the demands of the 20,000 individual people who responded to the Government consultation, the expectations of the 1.5 million Scottish people represented by our coalition and the urgent need felt by millions around the world.
ENDS

Notes to editors:
[1] Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 60 Scottish members, representing more than 2 million supporters, ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. For full details visit www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland
[2] In December world leaders will gather in Copenhagen to agree a new international climate deal that will come into force when the first phase of the Kyoto treaty expires in 2012.
[3] SCCS will be helping organise a Climate Change march in Glasgow on 5th December.

The Herald: Climate Bill Not Good Enough Warns Green Coalition

Climate Bill Not Good Enough Warns Green Coalition
Martin Williams
The Herald
Date: Monday 25 May 2009

A coalition of 60 charities, unions and churches has told Alex Salmond that a bill to tackle climate change does not go far enough, and accuses him of reneging on manifesto commitments on the environment.

Politicians have already voted to support the general principles of the Scottish Climate Change Bill that has set targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050 and by 34% by 2020.

The Scottish Government also wants to ensure the target rises to at least 42% when the EU agrees to reduce emissions by 30% by 2020.

Now, in a stinging letter to Alex Salmond, the Stop Climate Chaos Scotland coalition - made up of organisations including Oxfam Scotland, the Church of Scotland, the National Trust for Scotland, RSPB Scotland and Christian Aid Scotland - has insisted that the targets should be raised....

The Herald Editorial: A Climate for Change

UNISON Scotland is a signatory to this SCCS coalition letter. The full letter is at:
http://www.unison-scotland.org.uk/news/2009/mayjune/2205a.htm

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland calls on Parliament to deliver strong climate legislation

Tuesday 3 February 2009: For Release 00.01

COALITION CALLING ON PARLIAMENT TO DELIVER STRONG CLIMATE LEGISLATION

Key members from across the Stop Climate Chaos Scotland coalition will today (Tuesday 3 February) present their evidence on the Scottish Climate Change Bill to the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee (TICC).

2009 is a critical year for action on climate change with global deal negotiations in Copenhagen in December.

The Scottish Climate Change Bill has the potential to be the most important piece of legislation for a generation. However if it is to become world leading and set Scotland on the path of a green economic revival it needs to be sharpened.

SCCS, the leading coalition of environment, faith and development organisations, is calling on the Scottish Government to act now to cut dangerous carbon emissions and not delay serious reductions until 2020.

Key asks include:

1. Set out a framework that will achieve at least an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

2. Establish in statute annual emission reductions of at least 3% year-on-year from the start, not just from 2020.

3. Include all emissions in the targets in the Bill, including those from international aviation and shipping, from the very start.

4. Establish a Scottish advisory body, a Scottish Climate Change Commission in the primary legislation, which should be established when the Bill is enacted.

5. Set in place a statutory limit of 20% on the proportion of emissions reduction effort that can be met through the purchase of international credits. At least 80% of the effort to cut emissions should take place in Scotland.

Judith Robertson, Head of Oxfam Scotland said:

“This is not just an issue for future generations but for vulnerable people across the world today who are suffering the negative effects of climate change. Government commitments for domestic action on climate change have the potential to make a real difference and show leadership to the rest of the world but annual emission reductions of at least 3% year-on-year need to kick in right from the start.”

Dave Watson, Scottish Organiser, UNISON, said:

"The fact that UNISONScotland is represented in this discussion shows the breadth of support for strong action by the Scottish Government on climate change. In particular, the public sector must be given a key leadership role and made accountable for it.

"Also, there are so many crucial differences between the Scottish and UK contexts that an independent Scottish Climate Change Commission is essential."

Dr Richard Dixon, Director of WWF Scotland said:

“2009 is a make or break year for agreeing a new international deal on climate change. Scotland could have a huge influence on the rest of the world by setting really tough targets and including all international aviation and shipping emissions from the start.”


ENDS

Notes to editors


1. Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 30 Scottish members, representing more than 1.5 million supporters, ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. For full details visit www.stopclimatechaos.org/scotland

2. SCCS will be holding a Climate Change Rally in April 2009. All coalition members and their supporters are being encouraged to spring into action for a strong Scottish Climate Change Bill. We will be gathering to lobby MSPs outside the Scottish Parliament, from 11am – 2pm, on Wednesday 22nd April 2009. For further details of the rally see SCCS website.
3. The Stop Climate Chaos Coalition Scotland priorities for the Climate Change (Scotland) Bill are that it must:

• Set out a framework that will achieve at least an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

• Establish in statute annual emission reductions of at least 3% year-on-year from the start, not just from 2020.

• Include all emissions in the targets in the Bill, including those from international aviation and shipping, from the very start.

• Establish a Scottish advisory body, a Scottish Climate Change Commission in the primary legislation, which should be established when the Bill is enacted.

• Set in place a statutory limit of 20% on the proportion of emissions reduction effort that can be met through the purchase of international credits. At least 80% of the effort to cut emissions should take place in Scotland.

• Establish duties on all public bodies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions in line with the national target.

• Set in place robust, transparent reporting measures so the Scottish Parliament is well informed on progress in meeting targets and Government is held to account.

• Ensure that strong enforcement measures are set in place in statute.

• Scotland counts all its emissions, including those produced by products and services we consume.

• Be explicit that sustainable development is key to the intention and delivery of the statute.

Lobby MSPs on Climate Change and See a Film to Change the World!

Trailer for The Age of Stupid (see below)

Lobby MSPs on Climate Change

Scotland’s Climate Change Bill was published in December and was welcomed by green activists as a good start for world-leading legislation. However, it is vital that UNISON branches and members take action urgently to lobby MSPs to strengthen the Bill in key ways. The better we can make the Bill, the greater influence it might have on other countries in a crucial year for action on global warming.

United Nations talks take place in December 2009 in Copenhagen to determine the successor to the Kyoto Treaty. Scottish Organiser Dave Watson urged UNISON members to email and visit their MSPs. He said: “Climate change already affects the lives of millions of people and if the world doesn’t act this year on strong, international legally binding emissions cuts, we risk dangerous runaway climate change.
“Please take the time to contact your MSPs.”

Full details and an easy ‘click to email your MSPs’ link is at www.unison-scotland.org.uk/greenworkplace/respondmsp.html

The information there includes four ways to push for the UNISON four main ‘asks’. The Bill is being scrutinised by the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee, so we are especially keen for members whose MSPs are on that Committee to take part in lobbying. Contact details for the eight Committee members are on that page.

The Stop Climate Chaos Scotland coalition, of which UNISON is a member, is organising a Climate Change Rally and lobby of MSPs. Meet outside the Scottish Parliament, 11am to 2pm Wed, 22 April. Watch SCCS and UNISON websites for updates and full details once available.

UNISON’s four main ‘asks’ are that the Bill:
• reduces greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% by 2050.
• sets statutory targets of at least 3% year on year emission reductions.
• includes emissions from international aviation and shipping in the reduction targets.
• sets strong targets for the public sector to lead by example, with negotiated green workplace agreements.

Our Briefing on the Bill is on the UNISON-Scotland website at: http://www.unison-scotland.org.uk/briefings/194scottishclimatechangebilldec08.pdf



Going to the cinema in March can help save the planet - how you and your branch can campaign about The Age of Stupid. Join Not Stupid!

Influencing Copenhagen is also the aim of The Age of Stupid – a ‘documentary-drama-animation’ starring Pete Postlethwaite and directed by Franny Armstrong, who made McLibel. Franny said that Al Gore’s film An Inconvenient Truth "did a fantastic job at bringing the public up-to-speed on the science of climate. The Age of Stupid takes the baton from Gore and examines the moral, psychological and human consequences of our current way of life." A parallel campaign called Not Stupid aims to inspire 250 million viewers to become virtual or physical climate activists, focused on the UN talks in Copenhagen in December.

The film has six interwoven human stories filmed in America, the UK, India, Nigeria, Iraq, Jordan and the Alps. Pete said: “The opening sequence is phenomenal. It’s Spielberg, eat your heart out.” He plays an old man in a devastated 2055 world, asking, “Why didn’t we stop climate change when we had the chance?” The stories highlight oil, war, exploitation, inequalities, and ‘human stupidity’ in ignoring facts.

Franny wants the film to “be part of the sea change in awareness which leads to the greatest ever public uprising which in turn forces the world's Governments to make a binding international agreement to cut global emissions so as to stabilise global temperatures below two degrees and keep the planet habitable for humans and other species.”

She says we can all play our part, starting with going to see the film in its first week from 20 March, following a ‘People’s Premiere’ advance one night only screening around the UK, including Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness on March 15. First week figures determine how widely and for how long the film is shown and if it does well here, that will help it snowball to success and influence internationally. ‘Indie’ screenings can be organised from May 1st and a DVD will be on sale in June/July.



Information taken from UNISON Scotland's Green Network News - Environment Issue 2 Jan 2009

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland welcomes Scottish Climate Change Bill

For immediate release 05/12/08

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland – the leading coalition of environment, faith and development organisations – welcomes the Climate Change Bill introduced to the Scottish Parliament and calls on all MSPs to ensure it becomes a genuinely world leading piece of legislation.

Stop Climate Chaos includes UNISON Scotland amongst its main supporters.

Mike Robinson, Chair of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland said,

‘The Scottish Government had more than 21,000 people respond to its consultation process, and Stop Climate Chaos Scotland welcomes this strong Scottish Climate Change Bill with enthusiasm. This Bill could be the most significant for a generation and is warmly welcomed by the members of more than 30 of Scotland’s most respected organisations campaigning on climate change.

‘But, as Lord Turner’s report for the UK Climate Committee showed on Monday, there is no reason to back down, and every reason to be even more ambitious in investing for a green economy.

‘We call upon MSPs from all parties to back strong measures already in the bill, and to work constructively to improve it further so it becomes genuinely world leading legislation.

‘Poor people around the world are already feeling the real impacts of climate change – changing weather patterns undermine their ways of life while increased disasters threaten their lives. Our natural environment is already showing changes and heralding the devastating problems ahead if we don't cut greenhouse gas emissions. Scotland has had huge benefit from fossil-fuel based energy; we can and should be leading efforts to shift to a more efficient and sustainable low-carbon economy.’

ENDS

For more press information please contact:

Claire Aston, Christian Aid on 0131 240 1523; 07961 303481 or caston@christian-aid.org or Mandy Carter, WWF Scotland on 01350 728200; 07771 818677 or mcarter@wwfscotland.org.uk

For more information about Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, please contact:

Ruth Dawkins, SCCS on 0131 311 6512, 07790 386 329 or ruth@stopclimatechaosscotland.org


Notes to editors

1. Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is a diverse, growing coalition of organisations campaigning on climate change. The SCCS Coalition has 40 Scottish members, representing more than 1.5 million supporters, ranging from environment and development groups to faith organisations, trade unions, student societies, care providers and many more. For full details visit www.stopclimatechaosscotland.org

2. SCCS will be holding a Climate Change Rally in April 2009. All coalition members and their supporters are being encouraged to spring into action for a strong Scottish Climate Change Bill. We will be gathering to lobby MSPs outside the Scottish Parliament, from 11am – 2pm, on Wednesday 22nd April 2009. For further details of the rally contact SCCS Co-ordinator Ruth Dawkins (contact details above)

3. SCCS is calling for the Scottish Climate Change Bill to:

* Set a target to cut all greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% by 2050
* Establish statutory annual targets to reduce emissions by at least 3% year on year
* Include all emissions from international aviation and shipping in the targets.