6.49 The United Kingdom contains about 1% of the world’s population, but produces about 3% of the principal greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide (as estimated by the World Resources Institute in 1990). Unless greenhouse gas emissions are brought under control, severe and unpredictable global impacts are likely, with significant effects at a local level, such as flooding and loss of habitats. The UK is now committed to reducing emissions of the main greenhouse gases to 12% below 1990 levels over the next decade and has set a specific domestic goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 20%, over the same period.

Energy Efficient Housing, Shettleston

6.50 Burning fossil fuels for power is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing the use of fossil fuels and replacing them with renewable sources is a key part of meeting the agreed targets. Renewable energy comprises those energy flows that occur naturally and repeatedly in the environment from the wind, the fall of water, the movement of the oceans and from the sun. Plant material, often referred to as biomass (either as energy crops or forestry wastes), is also regarded as a source of renewable energy as are agricultural and domestic waste materials.

6.51 Renewable energy projects offer opportunities for economic development in Glasgow, principally through the manufacture of new technologies and in terms of job creation. Some types of projects may also offer benefits to the communities within which they are situated through the provision of low cost heat and power.