Environment

As we are currently in the midst of endless general election campaigns, televised debates and media reporting, it can be easy to overlook the importance of climate change in this election, however environmental policies are proving to be a key factor for many voters. With the exception of the climate-sceptic Reform party, all major political parties have pledged to address the environmental challenges facing the nation, albeit with varying degrees of ambition and specificity. Here is what the major parties are actually saying about climate change and why it matters.

The Importance of Climate Change in the 2024 Election

The prominence of climate change in the 2024 UK general election reflects the growing public concern over the environmental crisis. According to a recent poll, climate change is the fifth most important issue for voters, behind the cost of living, health, the economy and immigration, and is proving a particularly swaying factor for younger voters. With the parties offering a variety of approaches to tackling climate change, it is up to you to choose which policy you see as the most effective when tackling environmental issues and promoting renewable energy. 

Regardless of the outcome, this general election is a pivotal moment in the UK’s environmental journey towards a sustainable and low-carbon future and whoever wins will have a monumental task of positioning the country as a global leader in the fight against climate change.

Parties' Approaches to Climate and Renewable Energy

The Conservative Party

The Conservative Party’s environmental policies have not been without controversy, particularly after Sunak’s recent U-turns on key policies such as delaying the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. While there have been some U-turns, the party remains ‘full steam ahead’ to achieving net-zero targets by 2050, with an emphasis on “affordable and pragmatic” transition, prioritising energy security. 

The party has pledged to increase the rollout of renewable energy, including a promise to treble offshore wind capacity as well as support the development of new nuclear power stations. The Conservatives also support hydrogen production as a clean energy source and aims to make the UK a leader in hydrogen technology. They also plan to continue issuing licences for oil and gas production in the North Sea, arguing that this is necessary to ensure energy security, although this has led to scepticism over the party’s commitment to its net-zero target.

The Labour Party

In contrast, the Labour Party has placed green policies "at the heart" of its plans for growth and prosperity. Labour's manifesto outlines a £23.7 billion spending budget for green initiatives over the next parliament, including substantial investments in wind, solar and other renewable energy sources, with the aim of achieving a zero-carbon energy system by 2030. Labour's key policy is the creation of a publicly owned clean energy company, "Great British Energy," which it claims will help cut bills and boost energy security.

In addition to this, Labour’s Green New Deal proposes large-scale public investment in green technologies and infrastructure, for example retrofitting homes for energy efficiency and expanding public transport networks. This Green New Deal aims to create millions of new jobs, as well as deal with climate change, aiming to create 650,000 jobs by 2030.

The Liberal Democrats

The Liberal Democrats have also made climate change a key priority, as they pledge to "take the action needed now" to reach net-zero by 2045, which is five years ahead of the current UK target. The Lib Dems' manifesto aims to remove restrictions on new solar and wind projects, as well as support investment in tidal and wave power. Their policies also aim to make UK homes more sustainable as they pledge to provide free insulation and heat pumps for low-income households, as well as requiring all new homes to be fitted with solar panels. 

I’m sure we have all seen Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey falling off a paddle board into Lake Windermere, however there was a good reason behind this. The Liberal Democrats key focus is on tackling the issue of sewage dumping in our seas and rivers, including a sewage tax and a ban on water company executive bonuses.

The Green Party

The party with the most ambitious climate targets is of course the Green Party, as they aim to achieve net-zero by 2035, the earliest of any party. The party's manifesto includes a pledge to spend £40 billion per year on the transition to a green economy, including measures such as a ban on new coal mines and fossil fuel extraction projects, as well as a carbon tax on fossil fuel imports and domestic extraction. Their pledge to nationalise the “Big 5” energy companies is the closest any party comes to a publicly-owned energy system.

Overview 

As the UK prepares to head to the polls in July, the climate crisis has firmly established itself as a pressing issue in the general election. The decision made by voters will determine the country's environmental path towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy and its ability to meet net-zero emissions targets, as well as represent the UK as an environmental leader on the global stage. 

No matter who you vote for, your vote counts and will have a crucial impact on the environmental journey of the UK. So don’t forget your photo ID on the 4th of July and have your say on what matters to you! 

The rainy days are nearly over and soon we’ll all be sat in our gardens basking in the warm sun with a can of cider in hand. Not only is summer the perfect time to catch a tan, but it is also the perfect time to embrace renewable energy and adopt sustainable practices to reduce your environmental impact and enjoy plenty more comfortable summers to come. In this guide, we’ll explore a range of renewable energy options, as well as some quick and easy practical tips to help you have a more sustainable summer. 

Catching Rays With Solar Panels

Installing solar panels on your roof is one of the best ways to generate clean, renewable electricity for your home. Not only do solar panels reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, but they also offer long-term cost savings on your energy bills. Installing solar panels for summer also means your solar panels will be less affected by cloudy days and provide you with more energy.

Solar Chargers: Power on the Go

Solar chargers allow you to enjoy your summer activities with the knowledge that your devices will stay charged. These compact and convenient solutions charge your devices using the sun's energy and eliminate the need for grid-based electricity, keeping your energy bills low and your home greener than ever. 

Solar Lighting

Make the switch to solar-powered outdoor lighting to illuminate your patio or garden. These eco-friendly alternatives to traditional lighting require no wiring and turn on automatically, providing a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing way to enjoy your outdoor spaces no matter the time.

Keep Cool With Air Source Heat Pumps

Ditch the hand-held fan and discover the efficient cooling system provided by air source heat pumps, these technologies use electricity to extract heat from the outside air and transfer it indoors to provide cooling without the excessive energy consumption seen in traditional air conditioners. Beyond cooling, air source heat pumps can also be used for heating in the colder months, providing you with year-round comfort. 

Embracing Sustainable Practices

In addition to renewable energy solutions, there are numerous sustainable practices you can easily adopt to make your summer more eco-friendly.

1. Reduce Water Consumption

I know it’s tempting to hose yourself down during warm summer days to cool off, but it is crucial to implement water-saving strategies where you can. Opt for shorter showers, turn off the tap while brushing
your teeth, and reuse the water from paddling pools to water plants.

2. Minimise Food Waste

Take advantage of the abundance of fresh produce during the summer by shopping locally or try growing your own herbs or vegetables, you can’t get much greener than home-grown peppers. Plan your meals carefully to reduce food waste and consider composting any organic waste to nourish your garden.

3. Embrace Sustainable Transportation

Whenever possible, choose eco-friendly modes of transportation and walk more to truly make the most of the summer weather while you can.

4. Adopt Reusable Habits

There is a sharp increase in the use of disposable plastics during the summer, as people nip to the shops to stay hydrated with a fresh, cold bottle of water or a new bottle of suncream. While it is of course important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during the summer, planning ahead will significantly reduce the number of disposable plastics you use in the summer. Think carefully about what you will need for your summer activities, to reduce the amount of disposable plastics you use. Opt for reusable alternatives, such as water flasks to keep your drinks cold and eco-friendly, bamboo utensils when eating your picnic. This simple switch can have a significant impact on reducing waste and preserving the environment.

Overview

Go green this summer by incorporating these sustainable practices into your daily life and embrace the endless benefits of renewable energy to lower your carbon footprint and your energy bills. There is no better time than the present to adopt renewable energy technologies, whether it be air source heat pumps or solar panels. Aside from renewable energy, there are numerous solutions that can be quickly adopted by many to ensure a more eco-friendly summer. From bamboo utensils to growing your own vegetables, there is a solution that works for everyone. 

Summers are set to become warmer and warmer each year. By taking these small steps towards sustainability, you will play a part in ensuring that we can enjoy many more amazing summers in the future.  

If you’re interested in making the switch to renewable energy sources, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Project Heating Solutions today. We’d be happy to help!