Portrait of Theresa May
Politician · policy
Wikipedia (opens in new tab)

Theresa May on Climate Change

Net-zero commitment advocate (strong)

TL;DR

Theresa May committed the UK, as the first major economy, to legislating net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Key Points

  • She confirmed the UK would adopt a net-zero emissions target of 2050 by laying a statutory instrument to amend the Climate Change Act 2008 on June 12, 2019.

  • The new legally binding target was based on the advice provided by the independent Committee on Climate Change.

  • Her approach allowed for the use of international carbon credits to meet the target, a measure advised against by some experts, which she supported to ensure fair competition.

Summary

Theresa May, as Prime Minister, cemented a significant policy legacy by committing the United Kingdom to end its contribution to climate change by 2050, making it the first major economy to legislate for a net-zero emissions target. This ambitious goal was enshrined into law via an amendment to the Climate Change Act 2008, following advice from independent experts at the Committee on Climate Change. She framed this action as a necessary step to safeguard the environment for future generations and to lead the world towards a cleaner form of growth, drawing a parallel between the UK's past role in the Industrial Revolution and its new role in green innovation.

While the target date was welcomed by environmental groups, some expressed disappointment that the plan allowed for the use of international carbon credits to help meet the goal, a measure that her government defended as a way to multiply the effect of UK action and prevent unfair competition for domestic industries. Implementing this legislation before her departure as Prime Minister was noted as being extremely important to her during her final weeks in office, showcasing a final push on domestic policy areas sidelined by Brexit debates.

Key Quotes

If climate change proceeds unchecked... the effects will inevitably fall hardest upon the young.

Frequently Asked Questions

Theresa May's definitive position was her strong commitment, as Prime Minister, to legislate for the UK to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. She viewed this as an ambitious but crucial step to protect the planet for future generations and to demonstrate global leadership.

Yes, Theresa May confirmed this commitment, making the UK the first major economy to legislate a net-zero emissions target by 2050. She pushed the legislation through to be a defining decision of her premiership.

Yes, her government's plan included the ability to use international carbon credits, though this element was controversial and criticised by some environmental bodies. She maintained this was necessary to ensure UK industries did not face unfair competition.