Press release
Low-carbon economy should have been at heart of Clegg speech
4 February 2011
Commenting on Nick Clegg's Building a New Economy Speech, Friends of the Earth's Policy and Campaigns Director, Craig Bennett said:
"The UK's financial recovery must be built on the firm foundations of a low-carbon economy - and this will create new green industries and jobs, reduce our fossil fuel dependency and put us at the forefront of tackling climate change.
"But Mr Clegg's economic vision consigns a low carbon economy to the margins, rather than putting it centre stage.
"A Green Investment Bank has potential to drive real change - but to be worthy of the name it must have at least £6 billion in up-front Government support and be allowed to borrow and issue funds as any proper bank would.
"The coalition must also inject urgency into its plans to cut energy waste from homes and radically overhaul the energy market to ensure the UK develops into a green energy powerhouse."
ENDS
Notes to editors
1. Clegg speech: Building a new economy
If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.
Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Feb 2011
