TORY ministers will today unveil an array of new environmental initiatives in a bid to ensure Britain goes green by 2050.
To mark the opening of tomorrow’s annual conference, they will pledge to plant a “Great Northumberland Forest” of one million trees.
4
It will cut carbon emissions and improve biodiversity, they say.
Up to £1billion will be invested in “green” technology in the motor industry in the next five years.
Money will go towards developing clean batteries, electric motors and hydrogen fuel cells.
Ministers have also vowed to develop “pocket parks” on small pieces of derelict or undeveloped land in urban areas.
Some £200million will go towards the development phase of a planned nuclear fusion power station — offering the prospect of limitless electrical power with minimal waste from 2040.
Further investment will go towards new home-building standards, improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions from 2025.
YOUNGER VOTERS
The package is aimed at helping Britain meet its net zero carbon emissions target in 31 years. It is designed to appeal to younger voters, who worry most about climate change, before any general election.
A No10 source said: “What we’re saying is, ‘Vote blue, go clean’.”
Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom said: “Today’s announcements will benefit communities and households and improve wildlife and well-being.
We’re doing this properly by creating hundreds of thousands of low carbon jobs and growing our economy while reducing emissions.”
Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers said planting one million trees was key to the Tories’ aim “to be the first generation to leave the natural environment in a better state than we found it”.
4
Friends of the Earth said far more was necessary. Boss Craig Bennett said: “We’re living in a climate and ecological emergency.
“These measures are nowhere near commensurate with the scale of the challenge. If the Government is serious about slashing climate pollution it must stop fracking, stop filling the skies with more planes, and stop funding oil and gas projects abroad.
“Instead, it should invest in public transport, renewable energy and doubling UK tree cover.”
4
4
