An influential government body has extended strong support to a key aspect of the new British government’s strategy to boost the economy: a rapid program aimed at addressing climate change effectively. The Climate Change Committee, a statutory entity monitoring greenhouse gas reduction progress in Britain, emphasized the country’s current shortfall in meeting the 2030 emissions reduction target of 68% compared to 1990 levels. With a legal obligation to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, urgent action is required to align with these commitments.
The new government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is determined to expedite the construction of wind farms and solar energy facilities. Additionally, initiatives such as the replacement of natural gas boilers with electric heat pumps in households are on the agenda. Starmer believes that combatting climate change will not only safeguard the environment but also stimulate the previously sluggish British economy.
As a clear demonstration of intent, the new government swiftly approved the development of three large solar farms. On July 9, Ed Miliband, the Minister for Energy and Net Zero, appointed Chris Stark, the former chief executive of the committee, to spearhead the clean energy drive. Miliband is also revising planning regulations that have hindered the establishment of land-based wind farms in England.
