I have been campaigning on the environment for over a decade. The UK has cut greenhouse gas emissions faster than any other leading economy and over a quarter of our electricity now comes from renewables. We are the world leader in offshore wind, we were the first country to commit to phase out using coal to generate electricity. We are the second largest market for electric vehicles in Europe and we are leading the global challenge to cut maritime transport emissions. The UK Government established the International Climate Fund (ICF) to provide £5.8 billion to help the world's poorest countries adapt to climate change and promote cleaner, greener economic growth.
However, more needs to be done. In order to stop Global Warming, I am sponsoring the Climate Change (Net Zero UK Carbon Account) Bill to require the Government to commit to a 'net zero' by 2050. In Westminster, I have also been taking part in a major inquiry into how best to ensure the UK meets our climate change emissions targets.
To tackle pollution from single use plastic, I have led the #GiveUpPlastic campaign. This encourages MPs to take up environmental challenges during Lent, to cut down their own use of plastic and consider improvements to policy. The Government has now acted to reduce plastic pollution, including banning micro beads, straws and stirrers and introducing the tax which has removed 13 billion plastic bags from use. Further action is planned, including a deposit return scheme for plastic bottles and a Producer Tax.
The new Agriculture Bill is focused on delivering long term protections for our environment and wildlife, whilst ensuring that farming remains sustainable. The Government is also acting to protect animals, including stopping the trade in puppy smuggling and a crackdown in illegal ivory.
