Act for climate change

9 February 2012

When asked what measures were required to meet the Programme for Government's 35% greenhouse gas reduction target, he said that Northern Ireland was projected to cut emissions by 33% by the target year of 2025. He then went on to say this suggested the target was too low and "a more challenging target" would be required.

Replying to a question on a Climate Change Bill, the Minister stated his intention to bring forward a Bill during the current mandate. He said he had told his Executive colleagues of his intention.

The Minister's decision is based on advice from the UK Government's Committee on Climate Change that laid out the main reasons for introducing a climate law

• A law sets targets that are evidence based
• A law ensures cross-departmental decision making
• A law puts in place a transparent monitoring system for emissions.

So, the Minister plans to introduce a new climate change law in the next few years with challenging, evidence based emissions reduction targets. We can't sit back and relax just yet, but we can indulge in a little bit of optimism.

The Minister may be convinced of the need for a Climate Change Bill, but he will need our support to convince the rest of the Assembly.

Sign our petition calling for the introduction of a climate change law. The more people sign, the stronger our position will be.