Country commits to climate change policies

SCOTLAND will continue to play its full part in contributing to EU-wide environmental policies, Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham has said.

Ms Cunningham gave the commitment in a letter to environmental organisations ahead of a meeting on Thursday to discuss the implications of the EU referendum result.

She said: “We will be doing our utmost to protect our position as climate change leaders, to continue to play the role we have been playing in contributing to EU-wide environmental policies and to make sure we maintain, protect and advance our own environment.

“I am very clear that Scotland, as a responsible EU citizen, has a continuing moral and legal obligation to protect our country’s magnificent natural environment.”

Dr Richard Dixon, director of Friends of the Earth Scotland, said: “One of the strongest benefits of being in the EU has been the chance to work together on the big environmental problems that affect us all, from acid rain to climate change, and Scotland must work out how to continue to make a strong contribution.”

RSPB Scotland director Stuart Housden said: “Over the years, the EU and its members have collectively delivered improved environmental standards, critical regulation applied across all member states and significant funding for Scotland’s biodiversity.

“This has included the nature directives, environmental assessment, agri-environment schemes and LIFE funding to support practical action. Scotland, as a country with an enviable wealth of wildlife, has benefited significantly.”