Archived press release

UK carbon emissions still higher than when labour came to power

3 February 2009

Commenting on the final 2007 estimates of UK greenhouse gas emissions published today by the Government, Friends of the Earth's climate campaigner Robin Webster said:

"UK emissions are slightly lower than 2006, but they are not falling nearly fast enough."

"The figures distort the picture by failing to include the UK's share of international shipping and aviation emissions - the reality is that UK carbon dioxide emissions are still higher than when Labour came to power in 1997, despite repeated promises of significant cuts."

"The recently passed Climate Change Act commits the UK to slashing greenhouse gas emissions by 80 per cent by 2050 - but it won't meet this target without significant changes in Government policy."

"The Government's failing energy strategy must be completely overhauled. It must focus on a huge expansion in green sources of power and cutting energy waste - and plans to build new coal-fired power stations and bigger airports must be scrapped."

"This year's UN climate talks in Copenhagen are critical. The UK government must lead by example, commit itself to cutting its emissions by at least 40 per cent by 2020 and develop a safe, clean and prosperous future for us all."

Notes:

1. According to Government figures UK carbon dioxide emissions were (million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent) 551.6 in 1997 and 542.6 in 2007.

Adding in bunker fuels, changes the 1997 figure to 582.9 and the 2007 level to 584.9

2. In its three successful general election campaigns Labour has made manifesto commitments to cutting UK carbon dioxide emissions by 20 per cent by 2010 (compared to 1990 levels).

3. Under the Climate Change Act which was passed last year - and which Friends of the Earth led the campaign for through The Big Ask - the UK is legally required to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80 per cent by 2050. A series of five year 'greenhouse gas budgets' will also be set to ensure that this target is kept on track - the first series of emission budgets will be announced at the same time as the Chancellor's economic budget in the spring.

4. Friends of the Earth is calling for urgent International action to prevent a climate catastrophe. A strong and fair international deal to prevent runaway climate change destroying our planet must be reached at the UN climate summit in Copenhagen at the end of the year. This must include a commitment from rich countries to reducing their own countries' emissions by at least 40 per cent by 2020 without offsetting.

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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust