British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has set a target to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 81% by 2035, significantly bolstering the UK’s climate leadership compared to his predecessor, Rishi Sunak. During COP29, Starmer emphasized the UK’s role as a key partner in global climate efforts while aligning domestic policies with expert recommendations for decarbonization. His initiatives aim to create better jobs and ensure security through climate action.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer aims to restore the United Kingdom’s leadership in the fight against climate change, diverging significantly from the policies of his Conservative predecessor, Rishi Sunak. During his remarks in Baku on November 12, Starmer unveiled an ambitious target to achieve an 81% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, referencing 1990 levels. This new target supersedes the previous interim objective of a 68% reduction by 2030, maintaining the long-term goal of attaining carbon neutrality by 2050. Starmer emphasized the necessity of UK climate leadership, stating, “This COP, the UK has sent a clear message […]: We are a key partner for countries, for investors, and for businesses, and we are renewing UK climate leadership.” His remarks were pointedly crafted to contrast with Sunak’s previous reluctance to attend international climate conferences, highlighting Starmer’s proactive stance. In aligning with the recommendations provided by the independent Committee on Climate Change (CCC), which deemed the 81% emissions reduction achievable, the Starmer government is already pursuing initiatives for a fully decarbonized domestic energy sector by 2030. This initiative will be supported by an ambitious expansion of North Sea wind farm capacity, following the recent closure of the last coal-fired power station in the UK on September 30. Starmer believes that leading the transition toward a greener economy will generate better employment opportunities and lower energy costs for citizens, reinforcing the interconnectedness of climate and national security. Therefore, Starmer’s commitment marks a significant shift towards an aggressive climate agenda that seeks to reestablish the UK as a formidable actor in global sustainability efforts, particularly as nations gather for COP29. By positioning climate change not only as an environmental issue but also a matter of national and economic security, he lays the groundwork for a comprehensive approach to tackling the global climate crisis, one that hinges on innovation and infrastructure upgrades.
The backdrop to Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s climate initiatives is a UK political landscape that has shifted expectations concerning environmental policy. Under the leadership of Rishi Sunak, the UK had seen delays and reversals in climate commitments, including pushing back the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles. Starmer’s administration aims to restore trust and credibility in UK climate ambitions following a period marked by political controversies and mixed messages on the urgency of climate action. The new commitments are designed in line with expert recommendations and a clear vision of economic benefits tied to a green transition.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s ambitious climate agenda represents a pivotal change in the UK’s commitment to tackling climate change. By proposing an 81% reduction in greenhouse emissions by 2035 and reaffirming the goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, he seeks to re-establish the UK as a leader in global climate initiatives. The government’s approach emphasizes economic and national security linked to climate action, aiming for sustainable growth while fulfilling international responsibilities.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
