Leading environmental charity Changeworks calls for UK Government to put climate crisis plans into action
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“We've all watched with concern over the last year as Government leaders in Westminster and Holyrood have rowed back on their climate change commitments.
“Following the King’s speech which signalled Labour’s
plans to tackle the climate crisis and fuel poverty, there is now cause
for optimism that with
new, strong leadership the UK can find its way towards the goal of net zero by
2050.
“In its manifesto, the Labour party said a new “Energy Independence Act will establish the framework” for their energy and climate policies, and highlighted initiatives such as GB Energy and the Warm Homes programme. The recently announced £7bn national wealth fund will also help unlock vital private sector investment to speed up the UK’s net zero race.
“We are particularly delighted to see Chris Stark appointed to lead a ‘mission control centre’ on clean energy. As former head of the UK’s Climate Change Committee, Chris is undoubtedly the best person for the job, and I know he will ensure that the Government doesn't lose sight of its climate commitments.
The UK has seen a period of numerous consultations and delays on climate change policy in recent times, so it’s encouraging to see the plans from this new Government. We now need to see these plans put into action and continue to move quickly if we’re to meet our net zero goals.
“The UK Government has been given a clear mandate by the British public to follow through with its manifesto pledges. We urge Prime Minister Keir Starmer to show true leadership and to continue implementing a plan that will ensure the UK meets its target.
“We also call on the Scottish Government to pass the Heat in Buildings Bill during the next parliament to ensure Scotland can meet its own 2045 net zero goal. The Bill is a once in a generation chance to revolutionise the way our homes and buildings are built and retrofitted, leading to lower energy bills and alleviating fuel poverty.
Climate change is the most significant threat to the environment and our way of life. In Scotland, we have a further crisis in the form of fuel poverty. Scottish homes are some of the least energy efficient in Europe.
“Around 35% of Scottish households are in fuel poverty, and over 50% of homes have an Energy Performance rating of D or below.
“The link between the climate crisis and fuel poverty crisis is clear. Relying on oil and gas for home heating leads to higher, unaffordable energy bills. It also produces almost 13% of Scotland’s carbon emissions.
“Improving the energy efficiency of Scotland’s homes is key to alleviating fuel poverty, lowering carbon emissions and meeting our net zero targets.
“The UK can’t afford to wait any longer for urgent climate change action.”
Find out more about Changeworks here.