We asked the British public what they really think about net zero – here’s what we found

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece in The Conversation or enjoy below

🗞️ Driving the news: The Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has shown a lack of commitment towards the mantle of climate leadership, evidenced by decisions such as approving new oil and gas exploration licenses and a seemingly pro-driver stance
• Such actions are hindering the nation's transition to net zero emissions

🔭 The context: Despite being a pioneer in committing to net zero emissions by 2050, the UK is now experiencing significant setbacks in its leadership on climate change, according to the Climate Change Committee (CCC)
• Current governmental decisions are seemingly in contrast to the nation's climate commitments

🌎 Why does it matter for the planet: Achieving net-zero emissions requires the government to take a leading role in policy creation, consistent messaging, and personal example
• Current shortcomings are leading to increased pessimism about the country’s climate targets being met and reluctance among the public to make more expensive or difficult choices to reduce emissions

⏭️ What's next: The UK needs to address contentious policy issues like car use and meat consumption, where consensus is currently limited
• The process demands careful planning, public inclusion in policy design, and avoiding abrupt changes in strategy

💬 One quote: "The UK has a history of climate leadership to build on, broad public support for action and numerous economic, health, and environmental benefits to gain. Yet, it seems that opportunity is being squandered" (Jacob Ainscough, Senior Research Associate in Environmental Governance)

📈 One stat: Installation rates for heat pumps must reach one million a year by 2030, a significant increase from 54,000 in 2021, for the UK to remain on target with its net zero commitment

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