Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009

The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 received Royal Assent on August 4, 2009, following a comprehensive period of Parliamentary scrutiny and amendment during the Bill process. On June 24, 2009 the Bill was passed unanimously by members of the Scottish Parliament. The Act is a key commitment of the Scottish Government, and is the most far-reaching environmental legislation considered by the Parliament during the first ten years of devolution. Part 1 - Part 4 of the Act, creates the statutory framework for greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The Scottish Ministers will take advice on the targets they set. In the first instance this advice will be provided by the UK Committee on Climate Change. The Act includes other provisions on climate change in Part 5, including adaptation, forestry, energy efficiency and waste reduction. Public engagement is a significant feature of Part 6 of the Act, which also includes provision on carbon assessment.