Greenhouse gas target claims questioned by Greens
The Scottish Government has been told that it must invest 70% of the infrastructure budget in low-carbon projects by the end of the parliamentary term if it is serious about lowering greenhouse gas emissions, a Green MSP has said.
Responding to a statement by the cabinet secretary for the environment and climate change, Green MSP Mark Ruskell said that ministers’ carbon cutting intentions will only be taken seriously if they adopt the 70% target recommended by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate.
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP, Mark Ruskell said:
“Our ability to cut carbon today and tomorrow is dependent on the spending decisions of Derek McKay year on year. Investment in re-opened railways, green bus funds, and home energy efficiency are just some of the infrastructure spending that is needed to cut carbon, improve economic efficiency and tackle poverty.
“The Scottish Government’s budget this year must prioritise investment that will cut carbon emissions rather than locking them in for generations to come.”
Notes:
In advance of the publication of a draft budget for 2018/19, the Scottish Green Party’s autumn conference mandated the Green MSPs to continue to make the case for investment in low-carbon infrastructure such as energy efficient housing, locally owned renewable energy, sustainable transport, and local food systems, to ensure that low-carbon projects make up at least 70% of total capital spending.