Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has declared that it is “impossible” for the UK to meet its legally binding net zero target by 2050, a goal established under former Prime Minister Theresa May’s government in 2019. Speaking at a policy event, Badenoch argued that achieving net zero by the mid-century deadline would require “a serious drop in our living standards or by bankrupting us.” While she did not propose an alternative target date, Badenoch suggested her party would consider setting one if a more feasible path to net zero could be identified.
The UK’s net zero commitment, enshrined in law, mandates that the country reduce carbon emissions to the point where it removes as much as it produces, aligning with the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. However, Badenoch criticized current policies, stating they were “largely failing” to improve the environment while driving up energy costs. She emphasized that her stance was not a rejection of climate action but a call to address the practical challenges of the target.
Badenoch’s remarks mark a significant departure from the cross-party consensus on net zero, drawing sharp criticism from Baroness May, who described the 2050 target as “challenging but achievable.” May warned that delaying action would harm future generations and increase the economic and social costs of climate change.
The shift in tone comes amid growing political pressure from Reform UK, which has pledged to scrap net zero targets and focus on fossil fuel extraction and taxing renewable energy subsidies. Badenoch’s speech reflects an attempt to position the Conservatives as pragmatic on climate policy, balancing environmental goals with economic realities.
While Badenoch reiterated her support for net zero in principle, she stressed the need for a realistic approach, stating, “We’re falling between two stools – too high costs and too little progress.” She pledged to consult experts and consider setting a new target if necessary, but emphasized that her party would not “rush out” a decision.
The debate over net zero highlights the growing tension between climate ambitions and economic concerns, with Badenoch’s comments likely to fuel further discussion as the UK navigates its path toward a sustainable future.
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