UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has stated that climate change is a more fundamental threat than terrorism. Speaking on the 100th day since taking office, Lammy announced that the climate emergency, as well as declining biodiversity, would form the core of Foreign Office actions. He added that the British government will initiate a worldwide programme to speed up the implementation of clean energy. However, Lammy noted that prior UK financial commitments must be assessed in view of the perilous state of the nation’s finances.
Lammy emphasised that all government departments must recognise the climate emergency and declining biodiversity as a focus. In a speech at Kew Gardens, the Foreign Secretary stated, “The threat may not feel as urgent as a terrorist or an imperialist autocrat but it is more fundamental. It is systemic, it’s pervasive and accelerating towards us at pace.” Lammy wants the United Kingdom to play a prominent role in carbon reduction worldwide.
In his own speech at the Energy UK event, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband shared Lammy’s convictions. Both politicians insisted taking action on climate change could benefit the UK, rather than just presenting costs, despite concerns from Conservative MPs and unions. Miliband said, “We know we can only deliver energy security, lower bills and good jobs for today’s generations if we become a clean energy superpower.” The Energy Secretary also attributed the recent rise in energy prices to the UK’s dependence on oil and gas, warning that the country cannot continue on this path.
Lammy’s speech highlighted his intention for the UK to help developing countries in renewable energy development and to help regions such as the Caribbean in recovering from climate events. He announced the formation of a global clean power alliance within which the UK can exchange experience and expertise gained from its own shift away from fossil fuels. Additionally, he created special representatives for climate and nature. Despite his commitment to action on climate change, however, Lammy warned that financing would prove problematic given the dire state of the country’s finances.
Hannah Bond, co-CEO at ActionAid UK, praised the proposals, stating, “We are encouraged to see the new UK government take the first step in seriously addressing the urgent climate crisis impacting billions worldwide, after years of delayed promises and empty gestures.” Nevertheless, Rebecca Newsom, head of politics at Greenpeace UK, stressed that the British Government must follow through on its pledges to developing countries
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
