There have been calls from energy leaders for the Scottish Government to amend the proposed Climate Change Bill.
The bill, which is currently going through the Scottish Parliament, sets a target of achieving an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Energy firm Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) has teamed up with Stop Climate Chaos Scotland to urge Ministers to alter part of the bill which would allow Scotland to achieve these reductions by purchasing carbon credits on the international market rather reducing emissions at home.
They now want the bill to be changed to ensure that at least 80% of any targets are met through emission reductions in Scotland.
Stop Climate Chaos Scotland Chairperson Mike Robinson said: "The Scottish Government should encourage action to achieve the overwhelming majority of greenhouse gas reduction from Scottish emissions. There should be a mechanism in the Bill that will require government to deliver at least 80% of the annual emission reduction from within Scotland.
"We cannot sit back and pay to carry on polluting. It is time to act, and it is our responsibility and obligation as a developed nation to set an example. This is a clear opportunity for the Scottish Government to lead the world."
A Scottish Government spokesman called the climate change bill "the most ambitious anywhere in the world".
The spokesperson said: "The Scottish Government is considering options for amending the Bill to limit the amount of carbon units which may be used to offset Scottish emissions. This would place greater emphasis on achieving emissions reductions within Scotland."
He stressed: "It has always been our intention to prioritise domestic emissions reductions. However, we are committed to reducing emissions in the most cost-effective manner possible, so trading in suitably accredited carbon units must be part of a sensibly balanced approach."
SSE is the second largest supplier of energy in the UK.
Head of policy development for the company, Keith MacLean said the country could show "significant international leadership" by committing to achieving at least 80% of targets through emission reductions in Scotland.
He added: "A significant added benefit from this commitment will be to aid sustainable economic recovery and provide additional economic, social and environmental benefits to Scotland. This is a major opportunity not to be missed."
