The choices and decisions we make every day - as government, as businesses and as individuals, young and old, rural and urban - impact on the environment around us. Achieving a greener Scotland depends on all of us - and will benefit us all too.
For example, our buildings and countryside are part of Scotland's attractiveness as a place to live and work, generating national wealth. Our history and natural world are a part of our international standing and reputation, attracting tourists. Our local environment should make us feel good and improve our health and wellbeing. New buildings located well can create communities where we can access services, workplaces and amenities while reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. More recycling will reduce the waste disposal cost we all bear and leave a better legacy for future generations.
It is not only Scotland's future that depends on our individual actions. We owe it to poorer countries to play our part in tackling the global threat posed by climate change. Indeed, we intend to show the world a lead through our ambition to become a low-carbon economy. And all of us need to try to purchase things in a more informed way, taking account of the impact of producing them on communities and the environment all round the world.
With our wealth of natural resources and our excellent research base we have the potential to become one of the world's leading nations in managing our environmental impact. The potential of developments such as wave and tide power represents an unparalleled opportunity to boost our economy and enhance our environment and quality of life for decades to come, thereby supporting the Purpose by helping to increase productivity, participation and ultimately economic growth.
Greener Outcomes
We aim to deliver a Greener Scotland through all 16 national outcomes, with a focus on the following:
- We value and enjoy our built and natural environment and protect it and enhance it for future generations
- We reduce the local and global environmental impact of our consumption and production
- We live in well-designed, sustainable places where we are able to access the amenities and services we need