Environmental analysis: Coalition government 'good news for environment'

The new coalition government could help the UK to slow down climate change, an expert has said.

Consistency between the Conservatives' and the Liberal Democrats' environmental policies will encourage sustainability following this week's newly formed coalition government that sees the two political groups share power, according to John Alker, head of advocacy at the UK Green Building Council

He said: "There are a lot of [similarities] between, not just the Lib Democrats and the Tories around sustainability, but between all three parties on sustainability. For me that is really key that there is a very strong element of consistency."

The hung parliament has meant good news for climate change campaigners as it is an area that both parties can agree on, Mr Alker added.

Their policies on the housing market indicate a desire for both parties to encourage filling empty homes in the UK and making them more energy efficient. In their manifestos they both called for the abolishment of home information packs.

On May 10th, Barratt Homes announced that the new properties it builds are up to 40 per cent more efficient than they were ten years ago with the added features of double glazing and insulation.

Posted by Joseph Hutton