by Javed baloch source: news agencies images via unsplash
After Trump’s election victory and his past stance on climate change, the UK has taken a lead role at COP29. The country has officially announced a bold target to cut emissions by 81% by 2035.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband emphasize making the UK a "clean-energy superpower”. They told the media that would look forward to building alliances for global climate action as they're one of the key leaders in climate action.
“At this COP, I was pleased to announce that we’re building on our reputation as a climate leader, with the UK’s 2035 NDC [nationally determined contributions] target to reduce all greenhouse gas emissions by at least 81% on 1990 levels.” -UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said at a press conference.
The new 81% target updates the previous goal of a 78% reduction relative to the nation’s 1990 levels. This commitment aligns with recommendations from the UK’s Climate Change Committee. 78% target was set in the last NDC by the previous UK government.
The UK media reports that the country plans to achieve this emission reduction target by expanding offshore wind, decarbonizing the power sector, and investing in carbon capture and storage and nuclear energy.
Climate finance is a major COP29 focus, with the UK pledging £11.6 billion to support climate action in poorer nations, alongside a £1 billion investment in a wind turbine project in Hull, creating 1,300 jobs.
Since Labour took office, it has lifted the ban on onshore wind, committed to no new North Sea oil and gas licenses, and closed the UK’s last coal power plant, making the UK the first G7 country to phase out coal power.