A coalition of MPs and peers have called on the government to set a net zero greenhouse gas emissions target before the end of the current Parliament.

The group, which is led by Conservative MP Simon Clarke and includes former Conservative Party Leader Lord Howard and Green MP Caroline Lucas, argues a goal set in law is vital for the nation to meet its obligations under the Paris Agreement.

It says net zero must mean reducing carbon emissions close to zero and then balancing out any remainder by implementing measures such as planting trees or restoring peatland to soak up carbon from the atmosphere.

The parliamentarians state such a target would not only tackle climate change but also help get rid of the harmful exhaust pipe emissions that pollute the air across cities like London.

Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee, Mary Creagh, said: “If we don’t move to net zero, we can’t stop climate change. Much of the technology we need to reach net zero is already available and setting a net zero target will focus efforts on finding solutions and give business certainty.

“The government should move quickly to set a net zero target to make sure that the UK doesn’t fall behind the curve when it comes to green technology, finance and innovation.”

The Scottish Government is proposing a new target to reduce carbon emissions by 90% by 2050.