Print page
Increasing emissions targets will save billions, report finds
Last modified: 30 January 2012
Major new analysis out today concludes that introducing tougher carbon emissions targets will save the UK, and other European countries, millions of pounds. It would also lead to significant health and environmental benefits.
The current EU target is for member states to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2020. A European Commission report out today looks at the impact of increasing that target to 30%.
Despite concerns that a higher target will cost too much – particularly for Eastern European countries – the report shows a more ambitious target will save money currently being spent on fuel, energy and health care.
Increasing the target to 30% will reduce money spent in the UK on fossil fuels such as coal and oil by around £1.6 billion annually. It would also save more than £1.1 billion annually by reducing the cost to society of air pollution.
Martin Harper, Director of Conservation at RSPB, said: “This new report sweeps aside arguments that allowed EU politicians to drag their feet on tougher emissions targets.
“The UK must build on its climate commitments and, with others in the EU, move to supporting climate targets in line with the science. Climate change threatens many species with extinction and weak climate change targets pose a serious threat to people and wildlife.
“An EU move to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2020 is an important first step. Factoring in the environment also strengthens our efforts towards a sustainable economic recovery.”
Dr Kat Watts, WWF's Principal Advisor, Global Climate Policy, said: "While the climate crisis continues to unfold, EU ambition remains far short of its long-promised goal of 30% emission cuts by 2020, let alone the 40% cuts that would be justified by the climate science.
“David Cameron needs to work with other EU leaders to work out ways in which the economic situation creates opportunities for Europe to develop towards a zero carbon economy. This report shows clearly that greater ambition on reducing emissions has clear economic, as well as social and environmental benefits."
According to the analysis €18billion required annually across the EU between 2016 – 2020 for additional investments in the energy sector to meet the higher 30% target would be offset by extra fuel cost savings of €20 billion per year.
How you can help
You can do your bit to help stop climate chaos. Together we can make a difference.
Stop Climate Chaos