Responding to a warning by the Committee on Climate Change today that the UK needs to invest more in developing low carbon technologies if it is to meet its ambitious targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions, Friends of the Earth’s senior economy campaigner Simon Bullock said:

“Tackling the deficit depends on a strong economic recovery – and developing green technologies will play a crucial role in that recovery by creating new businesses and jobs.

“Treasury dictats slashing spending on green technologies are a false saving, which sends entirely the wrong message to potential investors.

“The UK has real potential to boost its economy by advancing green technologies. The Government must heed the warning of its own advisors and invest money now to build a future that is both good for our businesses and good for the planet.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Friends of the Earth’s reaction to the Government announcing £34m spending cuts on low-carbon technology is available at: http://www.foe.co.uk/resource/press_releases/spending_cuts¬
_green_economy_16072010.html