Plans for sustainable construction in Scotland could provide opportunities for electrical course graduates.

Green collar jobs could be given a boost in the country thanks to the Scottish Communities Initiative, according to housing and communities minister Alex Neil.

Mr Neil made the comments as it was announced that renowned US architect Andres Duany is to run workshops on green design for the construction professionals involved in the project.

He said this will provide a unique opportunity to combine Scotland's "aspirational" and environmentally-friendly building schemes with an "acclaimed" designer.

Furthermore, Mr Neil noted the positive impact this could have on jobs in the construction industry, potentially including those who have completed electrical courses.

"The plans for new low-carbon communities will also provide opportunities for Scotland's construction sector," he said.

Meanwhile, cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth John Swinney met with European environment commissioner Stavros Dimas recently.

He highlighted the country's carbon reduction efforts and said the Climate Change Act represents one of the world's most ambitious environmental plans.

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