Simplifying regulation to help businesses cut emissions
Defra has today published a consultation on measures to simplify the regulations businesses face in cutting CO2 emissions, alongside new work which gives more weight to the cost of carbon in policy decisions.
Environment Minister, Phil Woolas said:
“Last week in Bali, we set a clear agenda for negotiating a new global agreement to fight climate change. We must make the most cost-effective emissions cuts, and we must prove to the world that fighting climate change is compatible with economic growth.
“This consultation shows once again that we’re serious about tackling emissions in the UK and that doing so doesn’t need to undermine competitiveness. It’s all about making sure that we get the biggest cuts in carbon dioxide possible for the money spent.
“Working together, Government and businesses must show leadership in tackling emissions, without jeopardising prosperity. In fact, growth brings innovation and resources – which can help us to tackle emissions.”
Defra is consulting on a new package of measures to cut duplication and unduly complex bureaucracy, cutting costs to businesses and making it easier for them to cut emissions. The consultation responds to requests from businesses who want to cut emissions but find existing regulations complex and confusing.
The second paper, by government economists, significantly raises the value attached to carbon emissions or savings from all new policies and projects across government. It brings the value of carbon used in government decision-making in line with the Stern Review. This means that, wherever new policies or projects have a significant impact on emissions, advice to Ministers will take greater account of the carbon impact. That includes not just environmental measures, but applies across government – including transport, construction and infrastructure projects. It will make sure that lower-carbon options are recommended wherever they are economically and socially justified.
The consultation closes on 19 March 2008.
Further information
- News release
- The consultation: 'Climate Change Instruments: Areas for overlap and Options for Simplification’
- The paper: 'The social cost of carbon and the shadow price of carbon: what they are, and how to use them in economic appraisal in the UK'
Page published: 19 December 2007