Big UK emissions cut needed, says climate watchdog
The UK’s Climate Change Committee (CCC) has emphasized the urgent need for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions this decade to mitigate the severe impacts of rising global temperatures. According to the CCC, the UK possesses the necessary technologies to achieve these goals, but it will require substantial investments in renewable energy sources, electric vehicles, and heat pumps.
The committee pointed out that while the UK has successfully reduced its emissions by over 50% since 1990, there is an ambitious target to reach an 81% reduction by 2035. This target is aimed at making a “credible contribution” to the international effort to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
A spokesperson for the CCC indicated that the government would thoroughly evaluate their recommendations. Should the government adopt the proposed target, it would be a significant step forward from the current international commitment to reduce emissions by 68% by 2030. This target aligns closely with the UK’s legally binding commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
