In 2021, the UK government set one of the world's most ambitious climate change targets, pledging to reduce national emissions by 78% by 2035, compared to 1990 levels. The government pledge covered the UK's share of emissions from international aviation and shipping for the first time. If these cuts are well implemented, the UK will be three-quarters closer to her stellar target of net zero by 2050. This beckons the question, is the UK on track towards these goals?
What has been done so far?
Reports state that the UK government have managed to cut carbon emissions by a strong 50% with emissions levels dropping by 10% since 2019. Although, since the economy has begun to recover from COVID-19, emission levels have raised by 4%, signaling a level of backtracking in progress.
To achieve continued progress, policy makers must continue to provide clear directions for the private sector, paired with viable mechanisms and incentives to shape their actions. With this in mind, it is important to notice the UK has made some significant strides in implementing sustainable alternatives in select industries.
For example, the deployment of renewable power generation has allowed the industry to drop its carbon emissions by 70% in the past decade. Similarly, the push to implement electric vehicles has been successful, with figures surpassing government projections. The acceptance of EVs reflects the public’s interest in adopting a positive change when faced with an affordable and viable alternative. Important changes have also been made to the transport industry with the introduction of important certificates such as the ISO 14001, which shape the operations of companies within the industry.
What still needs to be done?
Despite making significant progress towards net zero, the UK has failed to make necessary changes. The country’s top climate body, The Climate Change Committee (CCC) argues the government has major failures in the execution of its strategy in many areas, prompting the UK to refocus their efforts if they intend to reach net zero by 2050.
The CCC recognised the aviation and shipping sectors as harmful, collectively accounting for 10% of the UK’s carbon emissions. The government is strongly relying on developing novel technologies such as sustainable fuels and zero-emission aircrafts, which are yet to be created, in order to negate the impact on carbon emissions.
The risky strategy, compiled with a distinct lack of guidance within both industries, showcases the government's failure to stay on track with its goals. The biggest issue facing the shipping sector is the slow adoption of sustainable practices in HGV’s resulting in the vehicles causing a large chunk of the shipping industry's carbon emissions. However, as time goes on, new technical developments are being introduced in the UK, enhancing the practices employed by businesses in terms of the environment.
Here at Welch’s Transport, we aim to provide the most environmentally conscious transportation in the industry. To discuss your transportation and logistical needs and find the right solution for you, get in touch today.