The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 is a pivotal piece of legislation that sets ambitious targets and measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland. It builds on the UK's Climate Change Act 2008, tailoring specific goals and strategies to Scotland's unique environmental, social, and economic contexts.

Purpose:

‍The primary purpose of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 is to establish a framework for reducing emissions of greenhouse gases in Scotland. It sets specific and legally binding targets, including a reduction of emissions by 42% by 2020 and 80% by 2050, relative to the 1990 baseline. The Act also introduces measures to adapt to the effects of climate change and to promote sustainability.

Requirements:

1. Emission Reduction Targets: The Act mandates annual targets leading up to the 2020 and 2050 goals, ensuring a consistent reduction path.
2. Reporting Requirements: The Scottish Government must report annually to the Scottish Parliament on the progress made towards meeting the emissions reduction targets and on the future policies and proposals to achieve them.
3. Climate Change Adaptation Program: The Act requires the development of a Climate Change Adaptation Program, which outlines actions to adjust to actual or expected climate change impacts.
4. Public Bodies Duties: All public bodies in Scotland are required to act in the way best calculated to contribute to the delivery of the Act's targets, including sustainability and adaptation measures.
5. Sustainable Development: The Act emphasizes sustainable development and carbon management, requiring public bodies to take these into consideration in their planning and operations.

Who They Apply To:

• Scottish Government: Primarily responsible for setting policies, strategies, and reporting to Parliament.
• Public Bodies in Scotland: Including local governments, health boards, and others, which must integrate climate change and sustainability measures into their operations.
• Businesses and Industries: Particularly those in sectors like energy, transport, and heavy industry, which are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Individuals and Communities: Encouraged to contribute through local initiatives and changes in lifestyle and energy use.

The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 is a comprehensive approach to tackling climate change by reducing emissions, adapting to inevitable changes, and promoting a sustainable and resilient future for Scotland.

The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 establishes rigorous evidence requirements to ensure accountability and effectiveness in meeting its ambitious climate goals. These requirements are integral to monitoring progress, shaping policies, and facilitating transparent communication regarding Scotland's climate action. Here’s a summary of the key evidence requirements under this Act:

1. Annual Reporting:
   • The Scottish Government is required to produce annual reports detailing progress towards meeting the emissions reduction targets. These reports must include quantitative data on greenhouse gas emissions, analysis of trends, and an evaluation of the effectiveness of the measures implemented.
2. Climate Change Plans:
   • The Act mandates the preparation of Climate Change Plans every five years. These plans must contain evidence-based policies and proposals for the next reporting period. They should include detailed modeling and projections to demonstrate how proposed measures will achieve the set targets.
3. Adaptation Program Reporting:
   • The government must also prepare a Climate Change Adaptation Program, updated periodically, which outlines actions to adjust to climate change impacts. This program requires evidence of vulnerability assessments, risk analysis, and effectiveness of adaptation measures.
4. Public Bodies Reporting:
   • Public bodies are obligated to report on their compliance with climate change duties. This includes evidence of how their operations and decision-making processes contribute to mitigating climate change, promoting sustainability, and adapting to its effects.
5. Independent Assessment:
   • An independent body, such as the UK Committee on Climate Change, is often involved in reviewing Scotland’s progress. This body assesses the evidence provided in government reports and plans, offering an objective evaluation of Scotland's progress toward its climate targets.
6. Stakeholder Consultations:
   • Evidence of consultations with stakeholders, including industries, non-governmental organizations, and the public, is required in the development of climate strategies. This ensures that the plans are comprehensive and include diverse perspectives and expertise.

These evidence requirements are designed to ensure that Scotland’s approach to addressing climate change is transparent, effective, and based on solid data and scientific analysis. They facilitate informed decision-making and public accountability in the ongoing effort to address climate change challenges.