Environmental News - Woolas calls for Government and businesses must work together to tackle carbon emissions
Defra is consulting on a new package of measures to cut duplication and complex bureaucracy, cutting costs to businesses and making it easier for them to cut emissions. The consultation responds to requests from businesses who want to cut emissions but find existing regulations complex and confusing.
The second paper, by government economists, raises the value attached to carbon emissions or savings from all new policies and projects across government. It brings the value of carbon used in government decision-making into line with the Stern Review – increasing it by 17 per cent for emissions in 2020, 32 per cent in 2030; and 67 per cent in 2050, compared with previous guidance.
This means that, wherever new policies or projects have a significant impact on emissions, advice to Ministers will take greater account of the carbon impact. That includes not just environmental measures, but applies across government – including for example transport, construction and infrastructure projects. It will make sure that lower-carbon options are recommended wherever they are economically and socially justified.
Mr Woolas said:
“Last week in Bali, we set a clear agenda for negotiating a new global agreement to fight climate change. We must make the most cost-effective emissions cuts, and we must prove to the world that fighting climate change is compatible with economic growth.
“Working together, Government and businesses must show leadership in tackling emissions, without jeopardising prosperity. In fact, growth brings innovation and resources – which can help us to tackle emissions.”
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