Aldersgate Group reaction: Climate Change Committee Progress Report

Reacting to the Climate Change Committee’s 2024 Progress Report, Rachel Solomon Williams, Executive Director at the Aldersgate Group, said: “This report is clear – the new government must hit the ground running and drive emissions reductions at pace if the UK is to get back on track for delivering net zero by 2050. Sir Keir Starmer’s government has demonstrated clear and welcome ambition on climate, announcing a number of positive measures since taking office, particularly on renewables and industrial strategy. But further clarity on delivery plans and a focus across a range of sectors is required to reverse the impact of policy rollbacks and unhelpful signals in recent years, which have harmed business confidence in the UK as a destination for green investment. This Climate Change Committee analysis shows us that, though the situation is urgent, there is an opportunity to get back on track if the government applies its welcome ambition across all sectors with a laser focus on delivery.

Rachel added: “The Committee’s recommendations, particularly highlighting steps to lower the cost of low-carbon electricity, removing planning barriers for green infrastructure, electrifying industry, and boosting skills, reflect the asks of the business community. The call for further progress across the built environment and transport sector demonstrates the scale of the challenge facing the government. We need to see a clear policy plan to rapidly deliver energy efficiency in our homes and significantly expand the uptake of electric vehicles. The same applies to meeting tree planting and peatland restoration aims: a healthy natural environment is critical to support efforts to address climate change.

Rachel concluded: “Successfully driving progress forward isn’t just vital to meet our legally binding climate targets, it also underpins the government’s plan to boost economic growth and prosperity across the country. Businesses recognise the massive opportunity that delivering net zero presents, and as the report states, polling shows that the public recognise the benefits that decisive action can deliver. Through bold and credible plans, the government has a major opportunity to not only get the UK back on track for its climate mitigation and adaptation commitments but also secure the major benefits of increased investment, lower bills and stronger energy security.