London, UK. Climate NGO, 350.org welcomed the timely delivery of the new UK climate goal which was announced today by Keir Starmer at the climate negotiations in Azerbaijan but warned its ambition falls short of true climate leadership.
Reacting to Keir Starmer’s press conference at COP29, Kate Blagojevic, Associate Director of Europe at 350.org said:
“Getting the UK’s more ambitious climate goals out of the door early is a good move by Keir Starmer as it shows willingness to show his cards on an international stage – this is much needed to encourage others to do so. The UK has the potential to become a true global climate leader on the world stage but isn’t quite there yet. For Keir Starmer to claim the coveted mantle in time, the more ambitious emissions reduction targets need to get back on track and be delivered on time without relying on CCS and nuclear power. While Keir Starmer might balk at the cost of doing the right thing, the private sector cannot be relied on to deliver what is needed. But he could force billionaires to pay the tax they owe and choose to channel the increased revenue into delivering real climate action at home and globally so we can hit these targets and pay our fair share. When he delivers this, then the UK will truly be at the forefront of global climate leadership.”
Despite these promising developments, campaigners at 350.org stressed that true global climate leadership requires more than incremental progress.
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