Gov's climate advisors publish progress report on UK emissions

Responding to the latest report from the government’s climate advisors, the Climate Change Committee, on the UK’s progress in reducing emissions – the first assessment since the new government took office – Mike Childs, head of science, policy and research at Friends of the Earth, said:

“The government deserves recognition for taking decisive action over the last year to accelerate progress to reduce carbon emissions. But as its climate advisors have clearly pointed out, there’s still some way to go if we’re to meet our internationally agreed 2030 and 2035 climate targets.

“The High Court has told the government that it must produce a new climate plan by October to demonstrate how targets will be met. As well as outlining new policies that will help the UK deliver on its climate goals, such as the roll-out of energy efficient heat pumps, Friends of the Earth is calling for the plan to be designed in a way that’s fair so we can bring everyone along with us in building a better future.

“That means ensuring polluters - not hard-working people and the most marginalised in our society - are the ones picking up the tab for climate action. The UK can be transformed with such vital funding, making our homes warmer in winter, energy bills cheaper, the air we breathe cleaner and our economy more resilient.”

ENDS