British PM: UK aims for 81% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035

The UK has set a new goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 81% from 1990 levels by 2035, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer outlined his government’s increased climate ambitions.

This target surpasses the previous government’s commitment made in 2021 to cut emissions by 78% over the same period, Caliber.Az reports referring to foreign media.

Starmer revealed the updated target while attending the COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan. 

"At this COP, I was pleased to announce that we're building on our reputation as a climate leader, with the UK's 2035 NDC (nationally determined contributions) target to reduce all greenhouse gas emissions by at least 81% on 1990 levels," Starmer told a press conference.

"We're building on our reputation as a climate leader," Starmer stated.

 "I've had a series of meetings here at COP this week because this government recognises that the world stands at a critical juncture in the climate crisis."

Despite the ambitious goal, Starmer reassured the public that the government would not impose restrictions on personal lifestyles.

"We're not going to start dictating to people what they do," he said.

He pointed to steps already taken by his government to meet the new target, describing it as "ambitious" but "realisable." These included the lifting of an effective ban on new onshore wind projects, halting new oil and gas exploration licenses in the North Sea, and the closure of the UK’s last coal power plant in September.

"This means Britain is the first G7 economy to phase out coal power," Starmer added, highlighting the country’s focus on renewable energy initiatives.

By Aghakazim Guliyev