Net zero emissions target passed into law

The UK has passed into law a target to cut greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050.

This replaces the previous target of at least 80 per cent reduction from 1990 levels.

Net zero means any emissions would be balanced by schemes to offset an equivalent amount of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, such as planting trees or using technology like carbon capture and storage.

Energy and Clean Growth Minister Chris Skidmore said: "The UK kick-started the Industrial Revolution, which was responsible for economic growth across the globe but also for increasing emissions.

"Today we’re leading the world yet again in becoming the first major economy to pass new laws to reduce emissions to net zero by 2050 while remaining committed to growing the economy - putting clean growth at the heart of our modern Industrial Strategy.

"We’re pioneering the way for other countries to follow in our footsteps driving prosperity by seizing the economic opportunities of becoming a greener economy.

The UK’s 2050 net zero target was recommended by the Committee on Climate Change, the UK’s independent climate advisory body.

The UK is the first major economy in the world to pass laws to end its contribution to global warming by 2050.