This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scotland's environmental challenge
05/02/2007
Scotland can become an example to the rest of the world when it comes to environmental attitudes and behaviour, the First Minister said today.
In a speech at Edinburgh's Botanic Gardens to mark the start of Scottish Environment Week and the fifth anniversary of his Environmental Justice speech, Mr McConnell said that he wants to see everyone in Scotland take personal responsibility for addressing climate change.
Mr McConnell added that it was particularly important that young people in particular are at the forefront of environmental concern.
Read the full text of the First Minister's speech
He said:
"It is now a given that the world's climate is changing, and that change is accelerating. In the five years since I first spoke, this issue has grown.
"Ordinary Scots are growing more and more concerned about the impact their actions are having - they are thinking about the implications of their flights; they are recycling more and more; and they are thinking about energy consumption. Our research tells us that over 80 per cent of Scots agree that they will have to start making changes to their lifestyles to ensure a better quality of life for future generations.
"I want to encourage everyone in Scotland - not just a few - to make the changes that will allow us to live within our environmental means and to make a contribution to reducing climate change."
The First Minister said that whilst Government will do all it can to help Scottish families live more sustainable lifestyles, it is vital that there is a wider shift in behaviour and attitudes towards the environment.
He continued:
"All the action in the world by government won't be enoough. What's needed is a wider acceptance in society - leading to all of us changing the way we live and the choices we make.
"By pushing toward the same goal, all working to protect and promote the same environment that we all love and enjoy - we can make Scotland an example for others to follow."