| Global Warming |
| The issue: |
Dear Sir george young,
I am writing find out what actions are being taken to stop Global Warming.
Global Warming has been a big issue and is getting increasingly worse. There has been alot of media pressure on the subject as it is starting to effect our everyday day lives.
I would like to know what the goverment are doing to stop Global Warming and whether it's effective or not.
Yours sincerely
Nicole Brashier |
| Date Issue Raised: |
19 Jan 2007 |
| My response: |
Thank you for your email about climate change.
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing us today. We can only tackle it if we realise that we all have a responsibility to act: individuals, business and Government.
As you are aware, the recent report published by Sir Nicholas Stern sets out the economic cost of climate change. Sir Nicholas has said that the scientific evidence for global warming is overwhelming, and that global warming could have disastrous consequences.
Potentially, the global economy could shrink by one fifth, costing up to £3.68 trillion in total and 200 million people could become refugees as their homes are hit by drought or flood. However, action taken now could cost just 1% of GDP.
This is a serious and important report which confirms that the cost of not tackling climate change will be infinitely greater than the cost of acting now.
This is why Conservatives called for a Climate Change Bill to be included in the Queen’s Speech and we are delighted that the Government included it. However, I am concerned that the Government is not considering introducing annual rolling targets in line with our policy and the policy of many other Green NGOs. What we must do now is ensure we get a solid Bill with teeth, not a watered-down version.
Any serious Climate Change Bill must have three things: rolling annual emission targets; an independent body to set as well as monitor these targets; and an annual report from the Government on how they plan to make progress in this important area.
Labour committed to a 20 per cent cut in carbon emissions by 2010 in three separate manifestos, but dropped this target in March of this year. It is clear we need external scrutiny and greater accountability, which is why an annual and independent check on Government progress is absolutely crucial.
Conservatives have also highlighted the importance of individual action in tackling climate change. On 17 January 2006, for example my colleagues and I were asked to switch our domestic energy supply to a renewable energy supplier. This is an important step, as the majority of UK emissions come from buildings. We all have the power, and responsibility, to make a difference. I try to play my part, cycling to work in Westminster and often in Andover, owning a hybrid car and taking the train to London and back. I am also a member of Friends of the Earth.
As an approach to tackling climate change, David Cameron has established the Quality of Life Policy group. It is, in effect, an open forum where ideas and evidence can be presented. More information can be found on the following website: www.qualityoflifechallenge.com
Best wishes
Yours sincerely
George Young |
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