Monday 18 February 2008

A major new nationwide campaign was launched by environmental group WWF Scotland.The climate change campaign aims to show that Scotland can be at the forefront of tackling climate change globally. The campaign, which will include visits to major towns and cities, aims to ensure that Scotland's politicians deliver the strongest possible Climate Change Bill. The Government's proposals are currently out for consultation.

To mark the launch of the campaign the charity unveiled a mock crime scene with a polar bear outline and 'police' tape – printed with the words "climate crime scene"– in Scotland's capital city. This is the first of 25 planned events to be staged across the country aimed at highlighting how Scotland can avoid becoming the scene of future climate change 'crimes' and to enable the people of Scotland to make their voices heard. WWF is calling on the Scottish Government and Parliament to establish a strong Climate Change Bill.

The launch of the campaign coincided with the eve of the third anniversary of the international treaty to tackle climate change, the Kyoto Protocol, coming into force.

Dr. Dan Barlow, WWF Scotland's Acting Director said:

"Scotland is fantastically well-placed to avert climate change crimes and take global leadership in tackling this issue which threatens people and species worldwide. Our campaign, which coincides with the third anniversary of the Kyoto Protocol coming into force, is all about preventing future climate change crime scenes and enabling the people of Scotland to have their say in ensuring a strong Scottish Climate Change Bill is delivered.

"Climate change is the biggest threat we face, and this bill may be the most important piece of legislation we will see in our lifetime. Scotland is already leading with a commitment to reducing climate emissions by 80% by 2050. WWF Scotland wants to see this commitment enshrined in statute with a strong bill containing measures that will put us on a steady path to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

"Annual emission reduction targets of at least 3% should be put into statute, in line with the SNP manifesto commitment, along with emissions from aviation and shipping. These measures will make Scotland a true international leader in tackling climate change and will help safe-guard the futures of millions of people and species around the world."

WWF Scotland's nationwide campaign is appealing for public signatures from now until the end of April. The campaign will involve a seven cities tour of Scotland, visits to farmers' markets and other events up and down the country.