Press release
Recession leads to fall in UK greenhouse gas emissions
1 February 2011
Official UK figures published today (Tuesday 1 February) show that UK greenhouse gas emissions dropped by 8.7% in 2009. Figures for 2010 will not be released until 2012 but early analysis suggests that emissions may have increased in 2010.
Friends of the Earth's Head of Climate Mike Childs said:
"The recession may have led to a fall in UK greenhouse gases in 2009, but our economy remains heavily addicted to fossil fuels - and early estimates suggest that emissions grew again last year.
"The Government must take urgent steps to wean the country off coal, gas and oil by investing in green energy and slashing energy waste - the Energy Bill, currently before Parliament, is a golden opportunity for action.
"The Bill must include new legislation to stop our homes leaking heat, boost renewable energy and require local councils to play their part in tackling climate change.
"We must build a clean, low-carbon economy out of the rubble of the old to create a safe and prosperous future for us all."
ENDS
Notes to editors
1. DECC: 2009 greenhouse gas emissions, final figures:
2. ENDS Report, January 2011: UK CO2 emissions likely to have grown in 2010.
3. In December 2010, the Government's official climate change advisor called for the radical decarbonisation and reform of the electricity market. The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) called on Ministers to increase the UK's mandatory 2020 climate change target to a 37 per cent cut in emissions (based on 1990 levels) and for a 60 per cent cut in emissions by 2030:
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
