Net zero policy changes to cost drivers and renters more money, say advisers
The IndependentSign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Around a fifth of the required emissions reductions to 2030 are covered by plans that we assess as insufficient Professor Piers Forster, CCC chair The 2030 target is seen as a critical step towards becoming net zero by 2050 and stopping the Earth’s climate heating more than 1.5C above pre-industrial levels – a limit seen by scientists as necessary for maintaining a safe planetary environment. Whereas the Government’s policy was to phase out all new gas boilers in buildings by 2035 and replace them with heat pumps or other low-carbon methods, the Prime Minister’s announcement that 20% of households will now be exempt means there will be “residual emissions” bleeding across the 2050 target, the CCC said. “We urge the Government to adopt greater transparency in updating its analysis at the time of major announcements.” Our position as a global leader on climate has come under renewed scrutiny following the Prime Minister’s speech Professor Piers Forster, CCC chair The CCC said the Government also needs to adjust its policy to ensure that more offshore wind farms are built through the Contracts for Difference scheme. “We urge the Government to restate strong British leadership on climate change in the crucial period before the next climate summit, Cop28 in Dubai.” A Government spokesperson said: “The UK remains a global leader on climate – cutting emissions faster than any other G7 country – so we are confident that we will meet our future carbon commitments, including net zero, just as we have over-delivered on every carbon target to date.