More than 30 individuals, including the Synod Moderator, have signed a statement calling on the Scottish and UK governments to "bridge the widening gap" between promises and practical action to build a fairer, greener, healthier society for all.

They said addressing the climate crisis is a "moral necessity" and Scotland must do all it canto play its part because further delay will have dire human and economic costs.

The full statement is below.

We believe that addressing the climate crisis is a moral necessity, and Scotland must do all it can to play its part.

We are alarmed by the conclusion of the Climate Change Committee, which recently described Scotland’s 2030 targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions as “no longer credible”.

This must be a wake-up call to us all. If we collectively fail to act there will be grave implications for the planet - our common home –and for our sisters and brothers across the world who have contributed the least to this crisis and who are already bearing its worst effects.

We are calling for unity from all political parties, from business leaders', communities and everyone in society to recognise the risks of inaction. We must regather and redouble our efforts and seek ways to work together to deliver the action we all know we need to see.

It is our shared belief and hope that action is possible, and that together we may yet still limit global heating to what science informs us is necessary and possible. We stand united in our wish to protect the dignity of human life and creation. We urge all citizens to remain hopeful, and for those with influence and power to be bold.  The road is not easy but our collective energy and prayers will be with all those working for a successful outcome. We commit to work together to encourage our own faith communities to participate through prayer and action to live more sustainably and to use our voices to call for action from those in positions of authority.

‍