March 28, 2006

experts react to government announcement on climate change

The government’s Climate Change Programme report says that the UK is unlikely to meet its target of reducing CO2 emissions by 20% by 2010, although it is likely to meet the 12% reduction set out in the Kyoto Agreement.

Dr Neville Hollingworth, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (CEH), said:

“Rapid and dangerous climate change is now known to be an even greater threat as a result of pioneering work carried out by scientists at the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology. The climate could be more sensitive to levels of greenhouse gas emissions than previously thought. The fact that the UK may not meet its emissions targets requires a radical rethink of policy for adopting a national approach to prepare for the inevitable consequences that will result if CO2 emissions are not reduced globally.”

Prof Bill Maguire, Benfield Hazard Research Centre, UCL, said:

“The government talks a good game when it comes to climate change, but there is simply not enough action. Once aviation and shipping are taken into account, the UK’s emissions were actually higher in 2005 than they were in 1990. We cannot get away any longer with preaching about the horrors of climate change to the rest of the world, when we are not placing sufficient emphasis on tackling the problem at home. We need to pay far more than lip-service to improving energy efficiency, promoting the full range of alternative energy technologies (not just wind power), and tackling aviation growth and the trend towards more polluting vehicles – and we this now.”

Dr Dave Reay, School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, said:

“It’s pleasing to see this recognition of increased awareness and action at the level of individuals as a way to cut emissions. However, if the government really want to make the most of the massive potential here, they need to do more than print a few leaflets. If we are to see widespread uptake of more climate-aware lifestyles in the UK, the public need the government to provide a good public transport system, recycling facilities and easy access to affordable microgeneration technology.”

Professor Nick Pidgeon, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, said:

“Recent surveys show that the British public now fully recognise the urgent need for action on climate change, and that they want leadership from the government on this. While today’s announcement shows that the government clearly has much more to do on climate change, new proposals to address personal and household emissions are a step in the right direction.”