A world-leading research facility is looking back up to 50,000 years to see how former climatic conditions can help inform today's work to combat climate change.

The radiocarbon dating laboratory in East Kilbride provides a unique glimpse into the past and contributes to a better understanding of how and why the climate is changing in the 21st century.

Visiting the facility today, Education Secretary Michael Russell said: "Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing the planet and we are taking unprecedented action, using cutting-edge technologies, to cut emissions.

"But the past has a role to play too. By learning more about previous climate events we can develop a better understanding of what is happening today and what might happen in the future.

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"Radiocarbon dating is fascinating. It examines ancient pieces of organic matter and can tell us a whole host of things about environmental changes that happened in centuries and millennia gone by.

"The facility here at the Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre is a prime example of Scotland's international excellence in research and innovation. The lessons being learned here about the past can help protect future generations across the globe."

Mr Russell today also visited the Low Carbon House at South Lanarkshire College, also in East Kilbride. This too is playing its part in tackling climate change by providing students with the skills needed to install renewable technology.

Mr Russell said: "Our colleges play a huge part in providing young people with the right skills to succeed in our modern economy. Our ambitious climate change targets will mean a huge growth in renewable technology, opening up new job opportunities across Scotland.

"I am delighted to see South Lanarkshire College taking such a forward-thinking approach to skills development. The students using this learning facility will be well-equipped when entering the employment market."

(GK/KMcA)