Keir Starmer on Climate Change
Keir Starmer views tackling climate change as not merely an obligation but as the single biggest economic opportunity for the United Kingdom going forward. His political platform, both as Leader of the Opposition and Prime Minister, has featured a strong commitment to environmental action and the green transition.
He has made a firm commitment to decarbonise the British economy through aggressive green policies. This includes a specific, ambitious target to completely eliminate fossil fuels from the UK's electricity grid by the year 2030.
As part of his government's economic strategy, Starmer has emphasised investing in clean energy and infrastructure. This focus on environmental goals is presented as intertwined with national economic renewal and creating future opportunities for working people.
Context
Keir Starmer's approach to climate change is framed within his broader 'Five Missions' governance structure, which seeks to tackle perceived ineffectiveness in the British state. His commitment to environmentalism is presented as a key part of his vision for economic restructuring and modernization.
This strong stance on green issues is also contrasted with the previous Conservative government's record on environmental standards, particularly concerning river pollution. Starmer has explicitly stated that his government will protect aspects of the natural environment that the previous administration, in his view, failed to conserve.
Timeline
- When defining 'Starmerism', Keir Starmer highlighted the need to address climate change.
- The Labour manifesto under Starmer committed to a 'Green Prosperity Plan' and creating Great British Energy.
- Upon becoming Prime Minister, Starmer reaffirmed Labour's commitment to infrastructure and energy goals.
- The October 2024 budget reaffirmed fiscal plans focused on sustainable energy.
Actions Taken
- Policy PledgePledged the creation of Great British Energy, a new, publicly owned clean energy company, as part of the 2024 election manifesto.
- Policy TargetCommitted to eliminating fossil fuels from the UK electricity grid by this date.
- Policy AnnouncementAnnounced a 'Green Prosperity Plan' outlining Labour's approach to clean energy and infrastructure investment.
- Fiscal PolicyGovernment's October 2024 budget confirmed continued focus on sustainable energy investment.
Key Quotes
Recognizing that [solving] climate change isn't just an obligation; it's the single biggest opportunity that we've got for our country going forward.
Starmer strongly favours green policies to tackle climate change and decarbonise the British economy.
He has committed to eliminate fossil fuels from the UK electricity grid by 2030.
Sources3
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.