Theresa May: UK will ratify Paris climate deal this year

Prime Minister Theresa May has confirmed the UK will ratify the Paris Agreement before the end of the year. During her speech to the UN General Assembly, she said the […]

Prime Minister Theresa May has confirmed the UK will ratify the Paris Agreement before the end of the year.

During her speech to the UN General Assembly, she said the country will start its domestic procedures to enable ratification of the climate deal.

In December at the COP21 conference in Paris, more than 195 countries agreed to take action to limit global temperature rise to below 2°C, which was signed in New York in April by more than 170 countries, including the UK.

Ms May’s announcement follows other countries such as the US and China which confirmed they will be ratifying the agreement later this year.

Business, Energy and Industrial Secretary Greg Clark said: “The government is determined to tackle climate change to help create a safer and more prosperous future for us all. That is why we are now starting the process of ratifying the landmark climate deal signed in Paris.

“The UK played a major role when the world came together last year and we will continue to play our part in the transition to a global low carbon economy as we continue to provide secure, affordable and clean energy at home.”

The news has been welcomed by businesses.

Rhian Kelly, CBI Infrastructure Director said: “This is an exciting moment and another step on the path towards a global low carbon future. Having also committed to reducing emissions in the UK in line with the 5th Carbon Budget, business looks forward to working with the government to develop a clear and credible plan to meet this ambition.

“There is no magic solution to climate change but with business and the government working together – developing innovative new products and services and leading the way in cutting emissions – we can all move towards a sustainable low carbon path.”

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