UK declares environment and climate emergency
MPs have approved a motion to declare an environment and climate emergency, making the UK the first national government to do so.
The motion, tabled by Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn, calls on the government to aim to achieve net-zero emissions before 2050 and for ministers to outline urgent proposals to restore the UK’s natural environment and deliver a “zero waste economy” within the next six months.
The declaration follows weeks of protests across the UK calling for more action on climate change.
The motion does not legally compel the government to act. Environment Secretary, Michael Gove, has called for a cross-party approach to action.