The work of Stirling's Raploch URC has been recognised as one of 11 low-carbon communities of the future in the drive to make Scotland greener and healthier.

Among some of the sustainable initiatives in Raploch highlighted included the creation of Eco-homes in the area and recycling 98% of material of the two demolished primary schools.

Projects have been selected to further the objectives of the Scottish Sustainable Communities Initiative (SSCI).

SSCI encourages the creation of places, which are designed and built to last, where a high quality of life can be achieved, and which demonstrate how we can reduce our ecological footprint.

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Dr Campbell Christie CBE, Chair of Raploch Urban Regeneration Company said: "Raploch URC are absolutely delighted to have this recognition as an exemplar project within the Scottish Sustainable Communities Initiative. This puts the community of Raploch on a national platform for addressing sustainability issues."

Stirling Council's Sustainability spokesperson, Cllr Jim Thomson, added: "This recognition for our partners in the URC reinforces the forward thinking needed to improve the lives of residents in Raploch. Stirling Council is aiming to put sustainability at the heart of its decision making and we welcome the fact that the Scottish Government is supporting initiatives in our area."

SSCI was launched in June 2008. It seeks to achieve a step change in design, quality and environmental standards of new housing-led developments, and to lead the creation of exemplar projects, which provide a basis for demonstration and learning.

(GK/JM)