Temperatures have been consistently high

WWF Scotland expressed concern after analysing Met Office monthly temperature records.

It also called on the Scottish Executive to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 20% by 2010.

The group said three months this year had been classed as exceptionally warm, 2�C warmer than average.

And six months had been warmer than the same months in 1997.

That year was identified as the warmest since 1861 in the Met Office Scottish Mainland Temperature series of records.

Climate change is a growing reality, and is the biggest environmental threat facing Scotland Richard Dixon WWF Scotland

Dr Richard Dixon, head of policy for WWF Scotland, said: "The weather is notoriously unpredictable but, despite the cold snap in October, if I were a betting person, I would put money on 2003 turning out to be warmer than 1997.

"This would make it the warmest year since accurate records began 142 years ago.

"Climate change is a growing reality, and is the biggest environmental threat facing Scotland."

WWF Scotland is urging the Executive to ensure the new European emissions trading scheme is based on the Labour party's commitment to a 20% cut in carbon dioxide emissions by 2010.

This is opposed to the lower 12.5% cut in all greenhouse gas emissions being lobbied for by some major power companies.

Dr Dixon added: "With Scotland already experiencing climate change, the Scottish Executive must back the strongest possible action to reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions, both through the new emissions trading scheme and in the forthcoming revision of the Scottish climate change programme.