Ed Davey unveils strategy for global climate deal

The UK Government has set out its vision for a global climate deal, suggesting “prosperity and carbon reduction go hand in hand to grow the world economy”. Energy Secretary Ed […]

The UK Government has set out its vision for a global climate deal, suggesting “prosperity and carbon reduction go hand in hand to grow the world economy”.

Energy Secretary Ed Davey highlights the need for the world’s richest countries to pledge ambitious emissions cuts as he announced the strategy for next year’s climate change summit in Paris.

In December 2015, the world will gather in Paris to secure a legally binding, global climate change agreement from all countries for the first time ever.

Mr Davey suggests the EU should show the lead on climate change in the run-up to the negotiations by signing up to a target of at least 40% of domestic greenhouse gas cuts by 2030 on 1990 levels this year.

He’s also calling for the G7 and G20 to follow suit so there are “no surprises” next year in what countries will pledge to do to tackle emissions.

The Paris 2015 document sets out the “overwhelming” scientific case for action on climate change and suggests “acting now” to cut greenhouse gas emissions can help prevent the worse effects of climate change and bring significant benefits to nations across the globe.

Mr Davey said: “While the risks of climate change are huge, the economic opportunities from a transition to a low carbon future are huge as well. A deal in Paris next year is the best chance we have to reduce and manage the risks of climate change and to unlock these opportunities.”

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