A MAJORITY of companies in Scotland believe climate change poses a risk to their business, a new poll suggests.

The study, commissioned by WWF Scotland, found nine in 10 large companies are concerned by the issue.

The poll indicates 85% of large businesses and small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) want the Scottish Government to be a global leader in tackling climate change.

It comes following the release of an IPCC report earlier this month warning there are only 12 years left to contain global temperatures from rising by a maximum of 1.5C.

Dr Sam Gardner, acting director at WWF Scotland, said: "These findings make it clear climate change is no longer a concern of a few 'green' businesses.

"The risks and opportunities are on the agenda in boardrooms across all company sizes, and rightly so.

"The best way for Scotland to minimise the threat posed by climate change and maximise the opportunities arising from our response is for Scotland to continue to take a world-leading role as businesses across Scotland clearly seem to understand."

Matt Lancashire, director of policy for the Scottish Council for Development and Industry, said: "Scotland's businesses are facing big issues, from Brexit to the fourth industrial revolution, of which climate change is undoubtedly one of the most significant."

Charandeep Singh, head of external relations for the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: "Scotland's expertise places us in pole position to reap the economic and social benefits of a modern, greener economy and we encourage more businesses to explore the new market opportunities of a low-carbon economy."