Introduction
"Climate change is one of the most serious threats we face. Urgent action is needed to cut emissions which cause climate change. We know - from the Stern Report and other studies - that the cost of inaction will ultimately far outweigh the cost of taking the necessary steps to stabilise our climate. The Climate Change (Scotland) Bill will introduce a target to reduce emissions by 80 per cent by 2050, and a statutory framework to support its delivery, placing Scotland at the forefront of global action on climate change." Alex Salmond, First Minister, introducing the Scottish Government's legislative programme on 3 September 2008.