Press release: 29 June 2022

CCC confirms major risk UK Government's net zero strategy will fail

The UK’s Climate Change Committee (CCC) has found major risks of failure in the UK Government’s strategy to meet its climate goals. In a thorough review of progress against the Government’s headline emissions reduction targets, the committee found “scant evidence” of delivery so far.  

Sam Hunter Jones, ClientEarth senior lawyer, said: “The Climate Change Committee has lifted the lid on the UK Government’s promises of climate action to reveal what lies beneath its rhetoric: a net zero strategy that won’t deliver.  

“The window for the Government to act is closing fast. Setting emissions goals alone doesn’t cut it. As we argued in court earlier this month, we need to see real-world plans that are sufficient to deliver them.    

“The Government’s flawed strategy is delaying the transition to cheaper and greener energy sources. It overlooks the steps which could be taken now to guard against skyrocketing energy costs and deliver real energy security for households.   

“The CCC’s progress report confirms that the Government’s plans fall far short of what’s needed, which will only heighten the risk for today’s young people and future generations left to suffer the long-term consequences.”  

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• ClientEarth, together with Friends of the Earth and Good Law Project, has taken legal action against the UK Government over its net zero strategy. A court hearing took place earlier this month. A briefing on the case can be found here.

About ClientEarth

ClientEarth is a non-profit organisation that uses the law to create systemic change that protects the Earth for – and with – its inhabitants. We are tackling climate change, protecting nature and stopping pollution, with partners and citizens around the globe. We hold industry and governments to account, and defend everyone’s right to a healthy world. From our offices in Europe, Asia and the USA we shape, implement and enforce the law, to build a future for our planet in which people and nature can thrive together.