1. UK Climate Change Policy After BREXIT
Chris Wyburn-Powell

2. What is Brexit? UK to leave the EU March 2019
Transitional agreement until ~December 2020
‘Great repeal bill’ will transfer most EU directives to UK law

3. Current policies UK
Population of 66 million = 0.86% of global population (US = 4.23%)
UK emits 1.14% of global CO2 emissions (US = 14.96%)
The Climate Change Act (2008) targets: 60% GHG reductions by from 1990 levels, excluding international shipping and aviation.
The only major EU country to have independent climate commitments. EU
European Emissions Trading Scheme - needs reform
2020 targets (2007) - 20% GHG reduction, 20% renewables, 20% efficiency savings - EU average.
GHG -39.4% (2016) mainly CH4 and N2O not CO2, renewables = 29.8% mid 2017, efficiency on target.
40% reduction of GHG by 2030

4. Opportunities for the UK
Create it’s own national emission trading scheme, with more control
Formulate better climate cooperation with the commonwealth
May be able to pick and choose EU schemes to remain a member of
Can create legally binding domestic agreements that transcend a single government. Unlike air pollution.

5. Threats to the UK
Loss of low-carbon EU Structural and Regional Funds – UK received €1.6bn
UK low-carbon R&D got €37bn since 2000 from European Investment Bank
Potential loss of EU scientists and institutions
Will not be subject to requirements of upcoming regulation ‘Clean Energy for All Europeans’
Loss of diplomatic clout/soft power on world stage

6. Debate – Brexit is an opportunity/threat to the UK tackling climate change

7. Voting
Those who think Brexit is a threat to the UK’s commitment to action on climate change
Those who think Brexit is an opportunity for the UK to increase action on climate change