PLANS for a new incinerator to burn plastic waste for hydrogen have been axed thanks to fresh rules aimed at delivering Scotland's climate target.
Circular Economy Minister Lorna Slater announced in June the Scottish Government would no longer support the development of new incinerators.
The move has now resulted in proposals for a waterside site in Clydebank being pulled.
The Peel L&P plans for Rothesay Dock were initially approved by a Labour-run West Dunbartonshire Council in the same month as the announcement but were then referred to the Scottish Government.
Now it has emerged the firm has dropped its application as a direct result of the policy decision made by the Scottish Greens’ co-leader, stating that the moratorium was “one of the key drivers in our decision to withdraw the application.”
Ross Greer, Scottish Greens MSP for West Scotland, said the application was the first test of the new policy and thanked campaigners for their hard work.
He said: “This is a significant win for the local community, who campaigned brilliantly against these deeply unwelcome plans.
“It is also proof that the Scottish Government’s new policy of not supporting new incinerators, delivered by the Scottish Greens, is already having a positive impact on our climate.
“This application was the first test of the new policy, and it's clear that the message is clearly getting through already - Scotland does not need more incinerators. I hope that other companies take note.
“I have to say though, the decision of a Labour-run council to support the application does confuse me. This is the opposite of the anti-incineration position which Labour claims to hold nationally.
"Whatever mess they are in, the Scottish Greens have ensured that the community and the climate are protected from these plans.
“Scotland is on a clear journey to protect our communities, our environment and our climate, and this welcome news should send a clear signal to any other companies seeking to keep us dependent on dirty fossil fuels.”
