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Carbon Budget Update

21 May 2024

Proposing MP
Justin Tomlinson Con
North Swindon
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses the publication of the Final Statement of the Third Carbon Budget and confirms that the UK over-delivered on its emissions reduction target by 15%.

Action Requested

The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero has decided to forego carrying forward any over-performance from the third carbon budget to the fourth, demonstrating a commitment to meeting ambitious emissions targets without relying on international flexibilities.

Key Facts

  • The UK achieved a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2022 compared to the base year.
  • Provisional data for 2023 shows further progress beyond the target.
  • The Climate Change Act was passed in 2008 and amended in 2019 to increase ambition to net zero by 2050.
  • No international carbon units were used to meet the third carbon budget.
  • Over-performance from the third carbon budget will not be carried forward to the fourth.
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