Displaying items by tag: net zero

Former prime minister Theresa May has criticised Kemi Badenoch’s claim that achieving net zero by 2050 is impossible. Badenoch, the new Tory leader, argued that current environmental policies raise energy costs while failing to protect nature, suggesting the UK should rethink its approach. May said that net zero is challenging but achievable, and warned that delaying action would harm future generations and increase economic and social costs. Former Tory environment minister Chris Skidmore criticised Badenoch’s shifting stance, pointing out her past support for net zero policies as business and trade secretary. Business leaders, including the CBI, also voiced concerns, warning that retreating from net zero could damage economic growth and investor confidence. Environmental groups and opposition politicians condemned Badenoch’s remarks, arguing that fossil fuel dependency threatens both the economy and living standards. Badenoch insists she is not rejecting climate change science but believes net zero is unattainable under current policies.

The Government’s plan to import biomass from countries like North Korea and Afghanistan to meet its net-zero targets has drawn sharp criticism, with experts labelling the strategy as ‘bonkers’. The plan, outlined in a bioenergy resource model, suggests a significant expansion of imported energy crops and wood to meet future demands. Critics argue that the reliance on biomass is flawed, especially considering its questionable role in reducing carbon emissions. The strategy assumes significant increases in global crop yields and overlooks the challenges posed by climate change and deforestation. Additionally, questions remain about whether countries like North Korea can comply with sustainability criteria. Further concerns include the impact on biodiversity, soil health, and Indigenous rights. A legal challenge against the biomass strategy claims it undermines the UK's ability to achieve net-zero by 2050.

Prime minister Rishi Sunak has defended the country's commitment to its net-zero targets despite criticism from the government's Climate Change Committee (CCC). In response to concerns about the UK's approach to climate change, Sunak emphasised his confidence in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. However, the recent overhaul of green policies, including a five-year delay in the ban on new petrol and diesel cars, has faced backlash, with the CCC stating that it sets the country back. Sunak framed these policy changes as pragmatic, emphasising the costs of low-carbon technology. The debate highlights the tension between political priorities and climate objectives. Critics argue that these alterations could hinder the UK's ability to meet legally binding climate goals. The controversy comes amid the backdrop of preparations for an expected general election, with the Conservative Party, under Sunak's leadership, seeking to create distinctions between itself and opposition parties.