UK Sets New Goal to Cut Emissions by 81% by 2035

The United Kingdom has set an ambitious target to slash its greenhouse gas emissions by 81% from 1990 levels by 2035. Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed this new goal at the opening of the COP29 climate conference in Baku, reinforcing the UK's position as a leader in the fight against climate change.

This updated commitment surpasses the previous target set in 2021, which aimed for a 78% reduction by 2035. Prime Minister Starmer highlighted the urgency of the climate crisis, stating, "We are at a critical point in addressing climate change. Without climate security, there can be no economic, national, or global security." He emphasized that this new target will be pursued without imposing restrictions on individuals' everyday choices, assuring, "We will not dictate how people live their lives."

To achieve this goal, the UK government has accelerated a series of green initiatives. Among them, the government has lifted the effective ban on new onshore wind projects, closed the last coal power plant in September, and committed to ending the issuance of new oil and gas exploration licenses for the North Sea. "Britain is the first G7 country to phase out coal power, and our focus now lies in prioritizing renewable energy projects," Starmer added. "We are in a race for clean energy jobs, and Britain intends to lead it."

The Labour government, which assumed office in July, aims to create a sustainable energy infrastructure that ensures the UK remains at the forefront of clean energy technology and economic development. Starmer reiterated this vision, noting, "The future economy will be driven by clean energy, and we are determined to be ahead of the curve."

Environmental advocacy groups cautiously welcomed the announcement. Rosie Downes, head of campaigns at Friends of the Earth, said, "This is a step in the right direction, but it must be viewed as a starting point rather than an end goal." She stressed the need for deeper and faster emissions reductions, urging, "For these targets to be credible, they must be backed by a detailed action plan. The UK's current 2030 commitment is significantly off track."

The COP29 climate summit is taking place amid mixed international sentiment. The recent re-election of Donald Trump, known for his skepticism of climate change, as U.S. President has raised concerns about global climate action. Additionally, alarming new data suggests that 2024 could set another record for high global temperatures. In this context, the UK’s renewed commitment to ambitious climate goals seeks to provide leadership and encourage other nations to act decisively against the escalating climate emergency.

The UK government has also focused on diversifying renewable energy sources, with investments in wind, solar, and hydrogen projects. The government’s commitment to developing green technology extends beyond energy production; it also includes enhancing energy efficiency across sectors and modernizing the power grid to accommodate the influx of renewable energy. By building a robust clean energy infrastructure, Britain aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and transition to a net-zero economy.

Starmer also pointed out the economic opportunities that a green transition presents. "The transition to renewable energy is not only vital for our environment but also a tremendous economic opportunity," he said. "We want to be at the forefront of developing and exporting clean technologies, creating jobs, and driving economic growth in the process."

The UK's new goal has drawn international attention, with observers noting that Britain’s climate leadership will be critical in maintaining the momentum needed for global action. Many believe that ambitious commitments like these can inspire similar actions by other countries, especially during a time when some major global players may be wavering in their climate commitments.

As the COP29 climate summit continues, it remains to be seen whether other nations will rise to meet the climate challenge with similar urgency. Nevertheless, the UK’s commitment to significant emissions reductions by 2035 underscores the country’s dedication to addressing the climate crisis and leading the charge toward a sustainable future.