Scotland's water will be protected under a new proposed law, according to a minister.
The Water Resources (Scotland) Bill is beginning its passage through the Scottish Parliament.
Infrastructure Secretary Alex Neil said the Bill underlines the global contribution Scotland can make to water technology, governance, management and regulation.
"Scotland's water is one of our prize natural resources. That is why this new legislation will draw together Scottish expertise to build an international profile of Scotland as a leading player in the water sector," Mr Neil said.
"Just as Scotland is demonstrating world leadership in tackling climate change and protecting natural resources, we can demonstrate leadership in meeting the challenges and opportunities that the water industry presents across the world.
"(The legislation) will build on Scottish Water's success as a public sector organisation, ensuring it makes best use of its assets for commercial purposes and accelerates renewable energy development.
"We will actively support our water industry, including our many SME (small and medium-sized) water businesses, to develop in both domestic and export markets."
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