Overview

This bill aims to legally bind the UK government to ambitious climate and nature targets, requiring the creation of a comprehensive strategy to achieve them. It establishes a Climate and Nature Assembly to advise on the strategy and assigns roles to key environmental bodies in its implementation and monitoring.

Description

The bill mandates the Secretary of State to meet targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement and halting biodiversity loss. This includes a commitment to a 1.5°C warming limit and reversing nature degradation.

Key aspects include:

• A legally binding duty for the Secretary of State to publish a climate and nature strategy within 12 months.
• The establishment of a Climate and Nature Assembly, representing the UK population, to advise on the strategy.
• Annual reporting on progress towards targets by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC).
• The strategy must include measures to reduce emissions, protect ecosystems, and transition away from fossil fuels.
• The bill allows for devolved administrations (Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) to agree to the targets and strategy via parliamentary motions.
• The strategy must consider the impact on communities and ensure sufficient financial support for those affected by the changes.
• Regular review and revision of the strategy based on scientific evidence.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred under the act, and any increases in spending under other acts due to this bill, will be met from money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Government: Legally obligated to meet climate and nature targets and implement the strategy.
• Devolved Administrations: Have the option to agree to the targets and strategy through parliamentary motions.
• Environmental organizations: Will have a role in monitoring and influencing the strategy’s implementation.
• Fossil fuel industry: Likely to face significant challenges as the bill aims to end UK fossil fuel activities.
• Businesses and industries: May be affected by regulations aimed at reducing emissions and protecting nature.
• Local communities: The bill requires the strategy to have a net positive impact on local communities, particularly those facing deprivation.
• Individuals: May experience changes related to energy, transportation, and consumption patterns.

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