The carbon footprint of Scottish households has dropped by 25% since the Scottish Climate Change Act was passed in 2009, according to environmental charity WWF Scotland.

Analysis of official statistics from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) reveals growth of renewables, more efficient homes and appliances, along with the governments' climate change policies, have caused a rapid decline in 'climate damage' by people using electricity, gas and other fuels to power and heat their homes.

With renewables now providing over half of Scotland's electricity generation, there have also been improvements in the energy efficiency of buildings, driven by government programmes, and more efficient appliances, driven by EU regulations.

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The largest drop was recorded in the Highlands (30.3%), while West Lothian recorded the smallest decline (21.6%).

The Scottish Government has said it will bring forward a new Climate Change Bill in 2018. By 2030, Ministers are targeting a 77% reduction in emissions, with a net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Gina Hanrahan, Acting Head of Policy at WWF Scotland said: "The Scottish Parliament's first Climate Change Act put us at the forefront of a global energy transition. These figures show that individuals across Scotland and governments at every level have played a part in cutting the climate damage of our home energy usage.

"When it comes to cutting our emissions, and protecting ourselves, the places and nature we hold dear from the worst effects of climate change, we all need to continue to do our bit."

However, Ms Hanrahan said despite the analysis showing Scotland's low-carbon transition is working, further efforts must be increased.

"A new Climate Change Bill this year is an opportunity to double down on our commitments to make our homes more energy efficient, to increase the use of renewables to heat homes, and put Scotland on the path to a zero-carbon future," she said.

To view the BEIS statistics, visit here.

(LM/MH)