UK: According to Builders Merchant Journal, an open letter to prime minister David Cameron published in the Financial Times on 10 June 2015 warned that a failure to tackle climate change could put the economy at risk, while decisive action could create jobs and boost competitiveness. The letter was sent by 80 UK businesses, including Knauf Insulation, Rockwool, Baxi, Akzonobel and Worcester and Bosch.
The businesses have called on the new administration to:
• Seek a strong global climate deal in Paris in December 2015 that limits temperature rises to below 2°C;
• Set an ambitious 5th carbon budget covering 2028 – 2032 to drive forward UK emissions reductions;
• Establish a long-term framework for investment in the low-carbon economy, giving industry much-needed clarity over what is expected in terms of low-carbon development and boost the confidence of green investors.
"British business is ready to step up. From construction and energy to retail, the best British enterprises know that green growth is the future," said Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) UK chief executive David Nussbaum. "They take on board that it's no longer credible to base a sustainable economy on fossil fuels, so the government should put us on track for a low-carbon world. As we approach international climate talks, Britain should be a global champion for change, but a lack of consistent long-term policies sends a confusing message to business and undermines our attractiveness to investors. The prime minister should send a clear message that the only way forward is a green economy and support forward-looking firms that want to build a clean economy."
