Is the UK Government championing Energy Efficiency?

July 7, 2011 - PRLog -- Having taken power of the UK last year, Cameron pledged to reduce carbon emissions in government headquarters and offices by 10%. The next target is a 25% reduction in energy usage by 2015 which will include widening targeted areas such as the Department of Transport. Cameron stated:

“But to be the greenest government ever we need to do more to stamp out energy waste in Whitehall, and make it easier for people and business to use energy more efficiently. That’s why I’m committing the Government to go further by reducing emissions by 25 per cent by 2015.” Quoted from Number10.gov.uk

The 13.8% carbon reduction is a decent achievement and a positive PR story for the Conservatives. However, is this more about PR and spin than putting our environment first? In May, the BBC reported that 15 green campaign groups clubbed together to write to David Cameron stating that it was their belief that promoting a greener economy needed more pace and urgency. Among the groups were RSPB, WWF, Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace. The primary concerns documented were changes in the planning system and a weakened zero carbon homes policy. The letter did recognise the initial focus that the government demonstrated citing the cancellation of the third runway at Heathrow Airport but that Cameron’s government was risking ‘losing way’.

Pilots for the Green deal, led by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg were also announced where homeowners will be given the opportunity to have subsidised energy saving measures such as insulation improvements. The Green Deal is a coalition initiative is intended to completely change the landscape of energy usage within British properties. The top line targets for the Green deal are impressive – a £550 per year saving that could be applicable to 14 million homes. As co-working and self-employment from home is on the rise this will also mean that more businesses will be doing their bit for carbon reduction.

This article was provided by Duncan Colman, blogger for carbon reduction industry specialist Carbon Catcher – for any businesses wanting to learn more about contributing visit http://www.carboncatcher.org.uk