Environmental campaigners have said a consultation on the climate change bill backs their calls for zero emissions by 2050
The vast majority of people who responded to a consultation on plans to tighten emissions controls in Scotland want to see tough action.
Of those who took part, 99% wanted the government to commit to net zero emissions by 2050 at the latest, and increased action in the next decade with a stronger 2030 target. The Scottish Government is planning for a 90% reduction in emissions by 2050.
Environmental charities have been calling for Scotland to lead the way on tackling climate change, and said the consultation proves that action is desired by the Scottish public.
Gail Wilson, campaigns manager of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, said: "Across the globe, the effects of climate change are becoming ever more apparent. In her speech at the UN climate conference in Bonn last month, the first minister said urgent action was needed to live up to commitments made in the Paris Agreement and for Scotland to lead by example.
"The Scottish Government is currently proposing 90% cut in emissions by 2050 with no major new policies within the climate change bill. However, it is clear from the response to the consultation, that the majority want political leaders to go further and to introduce strong policies on housing, transport and agriculture, to secure a zero-emissions future by 2050 at the latest."
Many respondents to the consultation noted that ambitious targets and action on climate change would help create jobs as well as improve air quality, tackle fuel poverty and achieve better health outcomes.
