Plans for moves towards low carbon living outlined by Government

The UK government has published its strategy for meeting carbon emissions targets that could be seen as setting the standard for other countries to follow.

The Low Carbon Transition Plan, which was announced by Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Ed Miliband, is a comprehensive plan to move the UK onto a permanent low carbon footing and to maximize economic opportunities, growth and jobs.

The Transition Plan sets out how the UK will meet the cut in emissions set out in the budget of 34 per cent on 1990 levels by 2020. According to figures from the government, emissions have already fallen by 22 per cent from 1990.

According to the government, by 2020:

• More than 1.2 million people will be in green jobs
• 7 million homes will enjoy pay-as-you-save home energy makeovers, and more than 1.5 million households will be supported to produce their own clean energy
• The UK will be importing half the amount of gas that it otherwise would 40 per cent of electricity will be from low carbon sources, from renewables, nuclear and clean coal
• The average new car will emit 40 per cent less carbon than now

The government describes the Transition Plan as the most systematic response to climate change of any major developed economy, and sets the standard for others in the run up to crucial global climate talks in Copenhagen in December.

The UK Low Carbon Industrial Strategy, published alongside, sets out a series of active government interventions to support industries critical to tackling climate change, including offshore wind, marine power and carbon capture and storage.

Also published is the Renewable Energy Strategy which maps out the UK Government's strategy for reaching the European Union's target of 15 per cent of the UK's total energy consumption from renewables by 2020, from around two per cent today.

The strategy identifies a range of low carbon sectors with potential for job creation and growth. These include: wave and tidal power; civil nuclear power; offshore wind; and ultra-low carbon vehicles.

It also sets out the government's strategy for removing barriers that are blocking the development of Britain's full potential in these areas.