The climate crisis is no longer a distant threat but an urgent reality, and the UK is feeling the heat. From record-breaking temperatures to devastating wildfires and hosepipe bans, the consequences are already being felt across the nation. While the root cause of this crisis lies in the burning of fossil fuels, the UK government's response has been woefully inadequate, leaving lives and livelihoods at risk. It's time for bold action, and here are ten critical policies that Andy Burnham's government should consider implementing immediately to address this crisis and protect the future of our country.
1. Reject Drilling for North Sea Oil and Gas
One of the most urgent steps the UK can take is to reject drilling licences for the Jackdaw and Rosebank oil and gasfields. This move would signal a commitment to a clean, green, and rapidly growing economy of the 21st century, rather than continuing to rely on fossil fuels. It would also strengthen the UK's diplomatic position in the global fight against climate change. The supposed benefits of approving these fields are largely illusory. Oil and gas prices are set by international markets, and drilling in the North Sea won't reduce energy bills or enhance energy security. In fact, it's a delusion to think that it will.
The reality is that the licences would support very few jobs, and the carbon footprint of North Sea production is not significantly lower than that of imports. Norway, our main gas importer, has a much cleaner record, and the methane emissions from LNG are a significant concern. The UK should be focusing on renewable energy and storage, not drilling for more fossil fuels.
2. Increase Windfall Tax on Fossil Fuel Giants
The eight biggest oil companies made a staggering $93 billion in the three months to the end of June, almost double their profits from the same period last year. Meanwhile, carbon emissions from their operations are driving the escalating climate crisis, and energy bills for ordinary consumers continue to rise. An increased windfall tax on these excess profits could raise significant funds for the government and help pay for emergency adaptation measures. It's only fair that these companies contribute more to the solution, especially when their profits are soaring.
3. Mandate Water Reuse in New Buildings
The UK is predicted to face a water shortage of 5 billion litres a day by 2055, which is equivalent to 2,000 Olympic-sized pools. Grey water recycling or reuse, which captures water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for non-drinking purposes, can significantly reduce water consumption. Rainwater harvesting is another effective method to make homes more water-efficient. While some areas have mandates for developers to demonstrate no net increase in water use, there is no requirement for grey water systems in the government's Future Homes Standard. It's time to change that and encourage water reuse in new buildings.
4. Nationalise the Water Industry
The privatised water system has failed to invest in and maintain vital public infrastructure, leading to record sewage pollution levels and a system that prioritises shareholder dividends over public services. The industry has more than £85 billion in debts, and in many cases, it is unable to provide the service it is legally bound to. A publicly controlled water industry would remove short-term profit motives, allow for lower-cost public borrowing for capital investments, and enforce a 25 to 50-year resilience strategy across regional catchments. It's time to bring water back under national control and ensure it is managed for the long-term benefit of the public.
5. Invest in Firefighter Equipment
Firefighters in Britain are facing challenges in fighting large, unpredictable wildfires due to a lack of specialised equipment. While other countries use dedicated water-bombing planes and amphibious vehicles, the UK relies on ground crews and privately chartered helicopters. It's time to invest in proper equipment for firefighters, including specialised aircraft, to better protect our communities and combat the increasing threat of wildfires.
6. Implement a Maximum Workplace Temperature
During the recent heatwaves, temperatures in some workplaces became dangerous, with teachers reporting classrooms over 40°C and bus drivers speaking out about unbearable working conditions. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) wants a maximum working temperature, and the Climate Change Committee has backed this demand. Rules should be put in place to ensure employers take steps to reduce temperatures above 24°C and allow workers to stop work if temperatures reach 30°C or 27°C for strenuous jobs. As heatwaves intensify, providing access to cool, well-ventilated spaces will become increasingly important.
7. Launch a National Retrofit Programme
Homes in the UK are among the draftiest and least energy-efficient in Europe, leading to high bills and spiralling carbon emissions. A national retrofit programme, led by councils and backed by the national government, could transform this. Councils would train and employ their own retrofitting workforce, starting with key public services like hospitals and care homes, and then moving on to council and social housing. This approach would not only make homes and public services more climate-resilient but also tackle the cost of living, create secure jobs, and stimulate growth. It's a win-win for the environment and the economy.
8. Plant More Trees and Protect Existing Nature
Trees absorb atmospheric carbon and create shade, reducing the urban heat island effect. neighbourhoods with more than 20% urban tree canopy have been found to experience a net cooling effect. However, more than four in five homes and workplaces in 25 European cities have less nearby tree canopy than what is needed for meaningful cooling. While planting trees today can create cooling in the future, conserving existing trees is essential. Every mature tree lost now is irreplaceable on the timeline that matters for current heatwaves. It's time to plant more trees and protect the ones we have.
9. Encourage Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative farming allows the land, soil, water, nutrients, and natural assets to regenerate themselves, increasing crop resilience to drought and dry weather. In one study, regenerative management of the soil led to a 23% increase in soil moisture content and higher yields. Alistair Chisholm, water policy lead at Arup, argues that current agricultural policies are not driving widespread regenerative approaches. Changing this would be an easy win to boost food security and protect our natural resources.
10. Invest in Climate Shelters
As heatwaves intensify, providing access to cool, well-ventilated spaces will become increasingly important. School halls, libraries, and leisure centres could be reassigned as climate shelters during extreme heat. Barcelona has been a pioneer in this area, with over 400 climate shelters across the city. It's time for the UK to catch up and ensure that vulnerable people have access to safe, cool spaces during heatwaves.
In conclusion, the climate crisis demands urgent action, and these ten policies offer a roadmap for the UK to address the crisis and protect its future. From rejecting drilling for fossil fuels to investing in climate shelters, these measures will help the UK become more resilient and sustainable. It's time for the government to take bold action and lead the way in the fight against climate change.
