SDC reports that governmnet will miss own CO2 targets
May 11, 2009
A report from the Sustainable Development Commission has concluded that the Government is not on course to meet its own targets for reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.
The Commission says that the Government should lead by example and states that more needs to be done if emissions are to be reduced by 12.5% against 1999–2000 levels by 2012. Furthermore, a great deal remains to be done if the Government is to make a significant contribution towards the UK-wide objective of an 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050.
There was recognition, however, of the progress made in some areas, notably in waste reduction, water consumption and emissions from road travel.
Another significant finding of the report is the need for the Government to better understand the full range of environmental, social and economic impacts of its operations. For example, the report states that while departments measure emissions from offices and road vehicles, they make no attempt to quantify the full carbon impact of their operations and procurement, including the supply chain. Similarly, the Government estate's full water footprint is largely unknown.
The Commission urged the Government to bring future targets and objectives in line with priorities in the real world.
Print this page