Govt 'must get on with the shift to a low-carbon economy'

27/08/2010

Despite the coalition's vow to create the "greenest government" ever, it needs to "get on with the job of shifting the UK to a low-carbon economy", it has been suggested.

The government needs to create new green industries and jobs, secure energy supplies in the UK, and end fuel poverty, according to Mike Childs, head of climate at Friends of the Earth.

Business energy costs could be reduced significantly if more green and renewable sources of energy receive investment in the UK.

"There are simple things that businesses can do to cut their carbon impact and save money - from minimising energy waste to generating their own green power.

"Switching off appliances and lights that are not being used can bring instant financial savings and installing solar panels or wind turbines will generate extra profit in the long run," said Mr Childs.

Recently, Euan Murray, general manager of the Carbon Trust Footprinting Company, said firms should invest more in business energy-efficient equipment in order to reap the "real environmental and economic benefits".

Posted by Tom Barnett