Environmental analysis news: UK CO2 cuts 'could be meaningless' without global commitment

Any attempts by the UK to substantially reduce its carbon dioxide emissions could prove to be meaningless if world leaders are unable to develop a global strategy for emissions reduction, the Environmental Audit Committee has warned.

The government organisation, which released its carbon budgets report yesterday (January 11th), stated that a worldwide commitment on emissions cuts is necessary if British measures are to have any affect.

Tim Yeo MP, chair of the committee, explained that Britain needs to focus on its own efforts as well as pushing for a global agreement.

"We must send a clear signal to developing countries that we are serious about making an international deal work - by meeting our own targets quickly," he said.

Mr Yeo added that this is vital if the UK is to have any credibility among other nations.

In response to the committee's report, the Confederation of British Industry stated that there needs to be a focus on energy efficiency to reduce emissions levels at UK businesses.

Posted by Lauren Steadman