The net zero strategy sets out how the UK government intends to reduce carbon emissions to become ‘net zero’ by 2050. The strategy was published in 2021 in the run-up to the UK presidency of the COP26 summit on how to respond to climate change.At the 2015 summit in Paris, it was agreed by all members that global warming has to be kept under 1.5°C. To enable this, countries negotiate and should only ‘spend’ within their carbon budget. The UK government’s net zero strategy sets out how the government will meet its climate targets up to the sixth carbon budget (2033-2037).
The UK has already reduced its carbon emissions by just under half from 1990 levels, which is the benchmark the global community uses to measure progress, but must do more to reach net zero. This has never been more urgent, as many have looked on in horror as wildfires and flooding related to climate change have ripped through Europe this year, exacerbated by the El Nino weather pattern. The strategy sets out how the government intends to decarbonise the economy.
How does the net zero strategy affect you?
One area the government is focusing its efforts on is power, with a target to fully decarbonise our power system by 2035.
Renewables are not only environmentally friendly but also much cheaper than fossil fuels per kilowatt; for example, those who wish to reduce their carbon footprint while saving money could consider solar panels. Solar panel installation Bristol and across the country is becoming increasingly popular.
The government has been clear that it also wishes to reduce emissions from heating homes and buildings, which account for one-third of all UK emissions, and sees solutions such as electric heat pumps as key. This means solar panel installation in Bristol is a good option alongside installing a heat pump.
What else can you do to reduce your footprint?
You could consider eating less meat, which could also have health benefits, and taking public transport, walking or cycling instead of driving.
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