One of Scotland's main development agencies has announced plans for its construction work to go carbon neutral, and ensure its clients follow suit.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise have set itself ambitious targets at the agencies annual meeting at Sabhal on Skye where a series of proposals were put forward, including a commitment to ensure all HIE's new build projects are 'zero-carbon' from 2012 onwards.

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The policy sets out how the aims will be met through a range of factors including management of construction, energy and micro-renewables, transport, water conservation, materials, land use, pollution, skills, facilities management and design for health and well-being.

Sandy Cumming, HIE's chief executive, said: "The world-rated attractiveness of our region's natural environment increasingly encourages people to visit and work here and is attracting new people to the area.

"The Highlands and Islands are in a prime position to become an exemplar sustainable economy and, in tandem with other public agencies, the responsibility falls on HIE as an aspiring sustainable development agency to offer leadership and move forward with higher standards that will further promote the area."

(DW/JM)