Aldersgate Group reaction: UK NDC announcement at COP29

Rachel Solomon Williams, Executive Director at the Aldersgate Group, said: “This ambitious NDC is a welcome display of global leadership from the UK government. Alongside sector-specific goals such as 2030 clean power, it will significantly strengthen our standing on the world stage at a time when international climate leadership is urgently needed. The UK has already demonstrated that ambitious climate targets can spark the creation of thriving new industries and accelerate growth, and this target shows other nations that we have confidence in this approach and will lead by example in our domestic policy.

“To continue building investor confidence, driving long-term growth and prosperity, the next step must be a robust plan for the implementation of these ambitious targets. The Climate Change Committee was clear that this goal can be delivered in a way that benefits jobs and the economy – this will require practical and cross-sectoral delivery plans. Progress in the power sector is already accelerating; the government must now ensure that this is reflected in areas like electric vehicles, the adoption of heat pumps, and heavy industry decarbonisation. This should all be complemented by a comprehensive programme to address skills shortages to ensure we create the local supply chains that drive economic prosperity across the country.”