COP26 News
Back net-zero vision with 'bold' 2030 climate goal, 300 CEOs tell Biden
RouteZero: Climate Group launches new initiative to decarbonise road transport
International non-profit the Climate Group had partnered with the UN High-Level Climate Champions to launch a new initiative aimed at getting businesses, cities and regions to completely decarbonise all forms of road transport.
G7 ponders increasing climate finance in build-up to COP26
Chancellor Rishi Sunak met with G7 finance ministers and central bank governors to discuss the role of finance in supporting the net-zero transition and implored developed nations to raise efforts to generate $100bn in annual revenue to support developing nations combat the climate crisis.
One-third of the UK's biggest businesses signed up to 'Race to Zero' ahead of COP26
Almost one in three FTSE100 companies have signed up to the UN's Race to Zero campaign, designed to accelerate the adoption of net-zero targets ahead of COP26.
Countdown to COP26: edie launches bumper virtual event ahead of climate talks
Registration is now open for a brand-new edie event which aims to help businesses seize the opportunity of the UN's COP26 climate summit later this year, with a stellar speaker line-up including senior representatives from BEIS, ClientEarth, Green Alliance, We Mean Business and the High-Level Champions for Climate Action.
Daily Climate Show: Sky to launch dedicated climate news programme
Sky is launching a daily news show dedicated to the rising necessity of tackling the climate crisis and the solutions that exist to do so.
What is the role between business and biodiversity? Access edie's new Explains guide
edie has this week published a new downloadable guide outlining all the key considerations for businesses that are looking to incorporate biodiversity into a holistic sustainability strategy.
Boris Johnson: Climate and biodiversity will be 'UK's top international priority'
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has stated that the UK Government will develop more ambitious climate and nature targets and initiatives as it completes an Integrated review of international policy.
Government orders public inquiry into Cumbria coal mine
The Government is set to intervene in the controversial plan to open a new coal mine in Cumbria, with a fresh inquiry as to whether it can be opened while keeping to national climate commitments mooted to take place.
Koala conservation and electric buses for COP26: The sustainability success stories of the week
As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.
UK Government has 'no plan' for reaching net-zero, MPs warn
Almost two years after enshrining the 2050 net-zero target in UK law, cross-party MPs have heard evidence that the Government still lacks a credible plan for delivery.
Budget 2021: Businesses and charities make last-minute calls for green funding to Rishi Sunak
With the 2021 Budget being announced on Wednesday (3 March), Chancellor Rishi Sunak is facing mounting pressure over the Green Homes Grant, National Nature Service and other green policy decisions.
'Tech Zero taskforce': UK tech firms to inform Government's net-zero approach
Fast-growing UK tech firms including Bulb, Starling Bank and Olio have formed a new taskforce that will inform the government's green policymaking and garner industry support ahead of COP26.
UN: Global climate pledges will only reduce emissions by 1% this decade
The world is falling "far short" of alignment with the Paris Agreement, despite the fact that many nations have updated their climate targets.
Sainsbury's confirmed as principal partner for COP26
Supermarket Sainsbury's has signed for the highest tier of sponsorship for COP26, ahead of the event in Glasgow this November.
Banking giants unite with Prince of Wales on financial net-zero taskforce
The Prince of Wales' Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) has announced that executives from the likes of Bank of America, BNP Paribas, NatWest and Lloyds have joined on as members of a new Financial Services Task Force aiming to create a net-zero investor sector.
#SustyTalk: National Grid's Duncan Burt on COP26 preparations
edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with an exclusive discussion with National Grid Group's director for COP26, Duncan Burt.
Kwasi Kwarteng: Recent policy decisions send mixed messages on UK climate action
BEIS Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has admitted that the UK needs a stronger and more joined-up policy framework to deliver its net-zero target and claimed that decisions such as not blocking a new coal mine in Cumbria "send mixed messages".
Sustainability Leaders Forum: Five top tips for turning climate ambition into action
With the dust settling on three days of thought-provoking conversations at edie's Sustainability Leaders Forum (SLF), edie rounds up how businesses can make 2021 a super year for climate action, which turns ambition into action for corporate sustainability.
UK's Net-Zero Business Champion: We must spark conversations outside our usual circles
The UK's Net-Zero Business Champion, Andrew Griffith MP, used his platform at edie's Sustainability Leaders Forum to urge professionals to engage with their supply chains, competitors and communities to maximise positive outcomes ahead of COP26.
Landmark review calls for nature to be included in economic decision making
A new landmark review has been launched today (2 February), outlining how businesses and policymakers can include and account for nature as part of economic decisions, with many claiming the findings could be as influential as the Stern review on climate change.
Climate Change Committee calls for rethink on Cumbrian coal mine approval
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) is the latest organisation urging the UK Government to reconsider the planning approval for a new coal mine in Cumbria, warning that it will increase emissions and create a "negative impression" of UK green policy in the build-up to COP26.
Last chance to register: COP26 business champion Andrew Griffith to deliver keynote at the Sustainability Leaders Forum
edie has today (29 January) confirmed a final addition to the Sustainability Leaders Forum speaker line-up in the form of Andrew Griffith MP, who will deliver a keynote speech about the business opportunity of COP26 on the second day of the virtual event, which runs from 2-4 February.
COP26 President launches challenge to deliver net-zero 'tipping points' in every sector
The UN High-Level Climate Champions and COP26 President Alok Sharma have today (28 January) unveiled a radical new roadmap to push the global economy towards net-zero emissions, targeting a range of near-term, sectoral tipping points to deliver decarbonisation.
Bank of England's high-carbon financing a 'moral hazard', MPs warn
The Bank of England risks creating 'moral hazard' by continuing to finance high-carbon projects and companies and providing no-strings-attached financing to carbon intensives companies, the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has warned.
Biden returns US to Paris Agreement as part of climate policy overhaul
In one of his first acts after being sworn in as the 46th President of the United States of America, Joe Biden moved to readmit the US back into the Paris Agreement, claiming that tackling the climate crisis, racial inequality and current coronavirus pandemic were the "gravest responsibilities" that countries face.
Kwasi Kwarteng admits 'tension' between UK's new coal mine and climate ambitions
BEIS Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has admitted that the Government's decision not to intervene with the planning process for a new coal mine in Cumbria is at odds with its domestic climate targets and the messages it wants to send as COP26 host.
The 2021 Sustainable Business Leadership Survey (8 minutes)
From Covid-19 to COP26, this flagship annual survey asks sustainability, CSR and energy leaders about the biggest drivers, challenges and opportunities facing green business in 2021.
UK water sector joins UN's 'Race to Zero' ahead of COP26
Water UK, the trade body representing all major companies in the sector, has been named as an official partner for the UNFCCC's Race to Zero Campaign, which was set up to inspire a holistic and ambitious approach to the global net-zero transition.
Envision Virgin Racing confirmed as COP26 partner for 'together for our planet' campaign
Motorsport team Envision Virgin Racing has been named as the latest company to be announced as a key partner for the COP26 climate summit, joining the "Together for Our Planet campaign" to encourage global climate action and raise awareness of the electric vehicle (EV) transition.
#SustyTalk: How can the built environment deliver a green recovery?
edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with a special panel discussion on the green recovery for the built environment, featuring Bennetts Associates' director Peter Fisher and FORE Partnership's managing director Basil Demeroutis.
Sky confirmed as COP26 principal media partner
Sky has been named as the principal media partner for the COP26 climate summit and has published new sustainability criteria for its TV productions.
Kwasi Kwarteng steps up to BEIS Secretary post as Alok Sharma takes on full-time COP Presidency
The Government has confirmed that Alok Sharma will step down from his position as Secretary of State for the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to enable more focus on his role as COP26 President, with Kwasi Kwarteng named as his replacement.
Report: Can the built environment achieve a green recovery?
edie has today (8 January) launched a free report detailing the appetite within the built environment sector to collaborate to overcome the challenges presented by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and to "build back better" by championing the green recovery.
China 'preparing to launch its first emissions trading scheme'
The Chinese government is drawing up the first emissions trading scheme in the nation's history, after it committed to carbon neutrality by 2060.
Report: 10 million high-carbon jobs to be retrained or replaced as part of net-zero transition
Research from a new cross-party programme exploring the net-zero transition in the UK has warned that 10 million jobs will either need to be retrained or replaced if the nation is to meet its climate commitments.
21 New Year's resolutions for sustainability professionals in 2021 and beyond
At last, 2020 has drawn to a close and while the first parts of a new year might not create a respite from a global pandemic and an economic crash, it does create the ideal opportunity to look at the climate crisis with a reinvigorated approach.
A net-zero New Year? The 7 green policies UK businesses are still waiting for
December saw a flurry of green policy announcements, from the Energy White Paper to the decision to end finance to fossil fuels overseas. But several key policy gaps remain on the road to net-zero as we enter a new year - and will need to be closed ahead of COP26.
Net-zero targets, virtual climate events and green recovery debates: The sustainability stories of 2020
With less than a week until Christmas, edie recaps what has been a busy year for sustainability stories, from the growing green recovery movement to the election of Joe Biden.
Zero Carbon Forum: UK's biggest restaurants team up to plot pathway to net-zero
Nando's, Burger King, KFC and Pizza Express are among the first business members of a new hospitality industry coalition that is plotting a pathway to net-zero for the sector.
Banks pressured to divest from fossil fuels and deforesters ahead of COP26
MPs, trade bodies and the UN's Environment Programme are urging banks to unify their response to the net-zero transition ahead of COP26 next November and commit to time-bound phase-outs for fossil fuel finance.
ECIU founder Richard Black steps down as director
The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) has confirmed that its founder Richard Black is stepping down as director, after setting up the environmental non-profit in 2014.
Global decarbonisation efforts need to be five times greater to reach 1.5C pathway
Global efforts to combat the climate crisis will need to be five times greater than current levels, with new research warning that the rate that carbon emissions are decoupled from economic growth slowed in 2019.
Sustainable Business Covered podcast: In the Green Room with EN+ Group's Lord Barker
To mark episode 94 of the edie podcast, content editor Matt Mace makes a long-overdue return to the Green Room, to discuss how Covid-19, climate policy and Brexit have impacted corporate sustainability with EN+ Group's non-executive chairman and former DECC minister Lord Barker.
Telefónica, Nestlé and Ragn-Sells commit to net-zero supply chains
Technology giant Telefónica, food manufacturer Nestlé and waste management firm Ragn-Sells are the latest businesses to sign up to a collaborative movement to reduce value chain emissions in line with the 1.5C ambition of the Paris Agreement.
UK ramps up climate adaptation plans in build up to COP26
The UK has become one of the first countries to publish an official plan setting out how the nation is responding to the climate crisis through adaptation and resiliency plans that focus on flood prevention and rewilding.
UK Government to end support for overseas fossil fuel projects
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed that the UK Government will end financing and support for overseas fossil fuel projects in the build-up to COP26 in 2021.
A 'vital step': Green economy reacts to the UK's new climate commitment
Green groups and business leaders have welcomed Prime Minister Boris Johnson's announcement that the UK has created an updated domestic emissions target for 2030 as its contribution to the Paris Agreement, but with progress lacking against upcoming carbon budgets, many want to see more detailed action plans.
UK to slash emissions by 68% by 2030, as part of Paris Agreement NDC
The UK Government will aim to reduce emissions by 68% by 2030, as part of a domestic action plan that will deliver the nation's contribution towards the Paris Agreement and limiting global temperature increases to well below 2C and build towards net-zero by 2050.
CCC pushes Boris Johnson to bolster UK's 2030 climate target ahead of COP26
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) is urging Boris Johnson to commit to reducing the UK's emissions by at least 68% by 2030, through its updated Paris Agreement pledge for COP26.
Former COP26 chair Claire O'Neill: UK falling behind on international climate engagement
Former Energy Minister Claire O'Neill (nee Perry) has told MPs she is concerned that the UK Government is failing to engage policymakers from other nations on climate action ahead of COP26, risking an unjust global low-carbon transition.
Business giants urge Boris Johnson to confirm 2030 climate target
More than 75 major businesses have penned an open letter to Boris Johnson calling for an "ambitious", legally-binding, interim climate target to support the transition to net-zero by 2050.
Report: Can the retail sector deliver a green recovery?
edie has published a new report detailing how retailers can build back better from the coronavirus pandemic by aligning long-term strategies with the need to combat the climate crisis, foster new innovations and ultimately spur a green recovery.
Is Boris Johnson's Ten Point Plan enough to reach net-zero?
Businesses, green groups and entire sectors welcomed the far-reaching announcement from the UK Government to issue a Ten Point Plan that would put the nation on the road to net-zero, but already analysis suggests that more is required to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
Andrew Griffith: What we know about COP26's net-zero business champion
Boris Johnson has chosen Conservative MP Andrew Griffith as the UK's Net-Zero Business Champion for COP26. Here, we outline what we know about his history on climate action and his views on key environmental issues.
'An ambitious plan for a green industrial revolution': Reaction to Boris Johnson's Ten Point net-zero plan
Green groups have welcomed a new Ten Point Llan from Prime Minister Boris Johnson to deliver a green recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and build towards the net-zero emissions target, but the lack of a clear roadmap is dampening an otherwise monumental green policy moment.
#SustyTalk: Counting down to COP26 with Chapter Zero, the Green Alliance and Fundación Avin
for Net-Zero November, edie hosts a special #SustyTalk video panel discussion on preparations for COP26 with the Green Alliance's Shaun Spiers, Chapter Zero's Susan Hooper and Fundación Avin and the UNFCCC's advisory panel's Ramiro Fernandez.
Utilities and banks: UK unveils first round of corporate COP26 sponsors
The UK's COP26 secretariat has named utilities SSE and Scottish Power, along with National Grid and NatWest Group, as its first sponsors for the climate conference next year.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan: What we know about COP26's 'international adaptation' champion
The UK Government has appointed Conservative MP Anne-Marie Trevelyan to the role of International Champion on Adaptation and Resilience for the COP26. But as the first woman appointed to a senior role for the crucial climate summit, Trevelyan has a patchy history on climate action.
'No time to waste': Boris Johnson to set out 10-point plan to boost net-zero commitment
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has issued a global rallying call on nations to put forward raised ambitions to tackle the climate emergency as part of a year-long run-up to COP26, with the UK set to publish a 10-point plan to boost green jobs and reach net-zero imminently.
Net-Zero Live 2020: Register for today's Net-Zero Resources sessions
Following a thought-provoking two days of edie's Net-Zero Live virtual event, businesses looking at resource efficiency can hear from Unilever, Coca-Cola, Mars, Timberland and WWF on the final day of the flagship event.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirms UK's first sovereign green bond, mandatory TCFD disclosures
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak has made a string of major announcements on green finance, confirming that the UK will issue its first green gilts in 2021 and will introduce new climate disclosure requirements.
UK retail sector pledges to reach net-zero emissions by 2040
More than 60 leading retailers, including Pret UK, Burberry, Sainsbury's and Missguided, have pledged to support a new collaborative roadmap to transform the sector and its supply chain to net-zero emissions by 2040.
COP26 was due started this week - here's what's happening instead
The UN's 26th climate conference - COP26 - should have begun in Glasgow this week. With the event postponed by 12 months due to Covid-19, edie explores the events keeping the international climate conversation going.
IPPR: UK Government must spend £33bn annually to combat climate and nature crises
The UK Government is allocating just £4bn annually to initiatives designed to reverse nature loss and tackle climate change, when the scale of the challenges requires some £33bn.
US Election 2020: What does Joe Biden's win mean for the global climate emergency?
US President-elect Joe Biden is outlining that first steps of his transition plan after beating Donald Trump in the US election. While the latter is yet to concede the results, leadership under the Democrats will deliver a very different outlook on global efforts to combat the climate crisis.
The Net-Zero election: Will the US continue to swim against the tide on climate change?
It is election night in the US and millions of citizens have already cast their vote on who should be the next president. The divide between Donald Trump and Joe Biden is evident, with one ready to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and the other ready to embrace the net-zero transition. The result of this election will likely shape global climate negotiations moving forward.
Business groups call on Prime Minister to set Paris Agreement commitment by end of year
A number of green business groups have called on Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the UK Government to set a substantial commitment to the Paris Agreement that is aligned to the nation's own net-zero target.
edie launches new report detailing how the hospitality sector can achieve a green recovery
edie has launched its latest sector insight report, examining how the hospitality and leisure sector can build back better from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic by focusing on low-carbon strategies as part of a green recovery.
Investors worth $8.5trn call for mandatory climate risk reporting for big businesses
Climate risk reporting should be made mandatory for the UK's biggest publicly listed businesses, an influential group of investors has told Ministers and regulators.
Government to publish 'comprehensive' net-zero strategy in build up to COP26
The UK Government has responded to the latest Committee on Climate Change (CCC) progress report, pledging to publish a "comprehensive" strategy that will detail how all parts of the economy will decarbonise in line with the national net-zero emissions target for 2050.
Businesses and green groups call for Government to set out 'negative emissions' policy framework
The National Farmers Union (NFU), Heathrow Airport and the Renewable Energy Association (REA) are amongst the organisations that have formed the Coalition for Negative Emissions, which is this week calling on the UK Government to set an "unambiguous commitment" to carbon capture and negative emissions.
UK Government reps 'discussing potential COP26 sponsorship deals with oil majors'
Despite a promise to ensure that COP26's corporate sponsors are "making real contributions" to climate action, government representatives have reportedly been in discussions with some of the world's highest emitting firms, including Equinor, BP and Shell.
edie launches new report on achieving a green recovery for the manufacturing sector
edie has today (29 September) published the first in a new series of reports looking at how businesses from key sectors can respond to the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic by focusing on a green recovery. First up, the manufacturing sector.
As Boris Johnson unveils COP26 'launchpad' event, is the world on track for a green recovery?
In a speech to world leaders today, Boris Johnson confirmed that the UK will co-host a climate event with the UN in December and will spend the coming months urging other nations to update their emissions targets. But is the UK keeping its own promises for a green recovery? And are world leaders walking the talk on their own commitments?
China's carbon-neutral target for 2060: What does it mean for global climate action?
The world's largest emitting country, China, has pledged to carbon neutrality by 2060, in a surprising yet welcome move that will boost global negotiations on climate action ahead of next year's COP26 summit.
Climate Week NYC: What happened on day one?
With COP26 postponed and many other large climate events postponed, rescheduled or moved online, all eyes are on Climate Week NYC. Here, edie rounds up the key announcements from the first day.
BT joins calls to accelerate climate action through 1.5C Business Playbook
BT has joined the likes of Ikea and Ericsson in supporting the 1.5C Business Playbook, calling for renewed efforts from corporates and policymakers to halve emissions by 2030 as part of a "race to zero".
Alok Sharma promises 'joined-up thinking' on net-zero policy, but examples remain scarce
Business Secretary Alok Sharma delivered rhetoric that the Government will approach the net-zero emissions commitment for 2050 through a "joined-up thinking" approach, but was unable to confirm any concrete policy announcements that would ensure fossil fuels aren't locked into the future economy.
Davos delayed: World Economic Forum postpones 2021 event over Covid-19 concerns
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has postponed the 2021 iteration of its namesake conference in Davos, Switzerland, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
UK Government starts search for corporate COP26 sponsors
The UK's COP26 presidency has outlined its sponsorship criteria for the conference, stating that it is only looking to work with businesses with "ambitious" net-zero targets.
Treasury defends lack of 'green strings' tied to corporate Covid-19 relief packages
The Government has defended its decision to issue billion-pound bailouts for carbon-intensive companies and sectors, with the Treasury hitting back at accusations that the Paris Agreement and the climate crisis had been cast aside, but a court case still looms.
edie's Net-Zero Live 2020 goes virtual as part of bumper month of inspirational content
edie's annual exhibition, Net-Zero Live 2020, will take place virtually over three days in November, as part of a themed month of digital content dedicated to accelerating climate action and helping business build back better.
Morgan Stanley to disclose climate impact of investments
Morgan Stanley has become the first US-based global bank to commit to measuring and disclosing the environmental impact of its investment portfolio and loan offerings and will join a global partnership to drive climate action across the global accounting sector.
Defra unveils natural capital 'assessment' funding as post-Brexit green recovery shapes up
Environment Minister George Eustice has announced a new £5m Natural Capital and Ecosystem Assessment to protect the UK's environment as part of a new package of Environment Bill measures, on the same day that the Government unveiled a £16m sustainable farming package in South America.
UK Government mulling ban on overseas fossil fuel financing, reports
Ministers are reportedly considering moves to ban the UK Government's direct lending facility from financing any new or existing fossil fuel projects overseas, following a series of high-profile exposés.
#SustyTalk: BT's Gabrielle Giner on COP26 and sustainability networking in the 'new normal'
edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with BT's head of sustainability policy Gabrielle Giner discussing how climate momentum can continue in the run-up to a delayed COP26.
Race to Zero: What's set to be included in the UK's green Covid-19 recovery package?
The UK Government's landmark global campaign for mobilising net-zero support ahead of the postponed COP26 summit - 'Race to Zero' - was launched late last week. But what decarbonisation activities are the likes of Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak and Alok Sharma backing for inclusion in national recovery planning?
Rolls-Royce commits to net-zero carbon operations by 2030
Manufacturing giant Rolls-Royce has announced an intention to become a net-zero carbon business by 2030, alongside a wider ambition to enable sectors it sells to in becoming net-zero by 2050.
Race to Zero: COP26 campaign launched to push nations towards net-zero targets
To mark World Environment Day, the UK Government has launched its "Race to Zero" global campaign to mobilise support for the net-zero transition across businesses, cities and nations, with new data finding that 53% of global GDP is covered by a net-zero ambition in some form.
Green recovery: Net-zero transition can create £90bn annual benefits for the UK
The UK's net-zero transition can be the perfect remedy to the economic and health crises caused by the coronavirus, according to a new WWF-commissioned report that suggests that net-zero could deliver more than £90bn in annual benefits to the UK while growing the job market.
UK business giants call for national green recovery tied to net-zero
More than 200 UK businesses and investors, including Sky, Lloyds Bank and Asda, have called on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to deliver a green recovery plan from the coronavirus pandemic that builds a stronger and more inclusive economy.
Boris Johnson confirms new COP26 date, urges nations to focus on green recoveries
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has reiterated a desire for the UK to deliver a "sustainable" recovery from the coronavirus pandemic in a way that brings together key international nations to reach the ambitions of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Reports: COP26 to be delayed until November 2021
Reports have emerged that the UK Government has put forward the first two weeks of November 2021 as new proposed dates for the crucial COP26 climate conference, citing concerns over the state of international travel safety due to the coronavirus.
#SustyTalk: Danone's Eric Soubeiran on Covid-19 and World Biodiversity Day
edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with Danone's vice president for nature and water cycle Eric Soubeiran discussing regenerative agriculture and food practices and climate leadership to mark world biodiversity day.
edie launches updated net-zero business guide to account for Covid-19 and green policy delays
Organisations looking to understand the various issues surrounding the hot topic of net-zero and how the trend could be impacted by the coronavirus and delays to critical green legislation now have access to a crucial new edie Explains guide, which breaks down everything you need-to-know on the topic.
CCC: Change tax systems to build green economic recovery post-coronavirus
The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has advised Prime Minister Boris Johnson, COP26 President Alok Sharma and national first ministers across the UK, calling for climate action to be placed at the heart of an economic rebuild following the coronavirus pandemic.
Green stimulus can repair global economy and climate, study says
Green economy recovery packages for the coronavirus crisis will repair the global economy and put the world on track to tackle climate breakdown, but time is running out to implement the changes needed, new analysis has shown.
Messages of hope: How world leaders are rallying for a green Covid-19 recovery
The two-day Petersberg Climate Dialogue finished yesterday evening, with ministerial leaders from the UK, Germany, the EU and the UN all delivering rallying cries for nations to focus on climate mitigation as part of any efforts to stimulate the economic downturned caused by the coronavirus outbreak.
Petersberg Climate Dialogue: Alok Sharma rallies for global net-zero transition policies
The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and COP26 President, Alok Sharma, spoke at the 11th Petersberg Climate Dialogue to call on nations to "set clear targets and policies" that are aligned to a rapid net-zero transition and will stimulate green economic growth.
Alok Sharma: 'Focus has not stopped' on global climate action
The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), Alok Sharma had stated that the UK remains focused on preparations for the delayed COP26 climate summit, claiming that nations can't treat the coronavirus pandemic and climate action as an "either-or" scenario.
CCC boss: Green and resilient economic recovery can push UK towards net-zero target
EXCLUSIVE: The Committee on Climate Change's (CCC) chief executive Chris Stark believes the UK Government should prioritise a green and resilient economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic that doesn't lock in fossil fuels and puts the nation on an upwards trajectory towards a socially just net-zero transformation.
UK's climate watchdog to refocus advisory reports to account for coronavirus impacts on net-zero
The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has announced it is amending its advisory reports due for publication over the next 12 months to account for responses to the coronavirus pandemic, with a report on the UK's sixth carbon budget pushed back to December.
Ed Miliband named as BEIS Shadow Secretary
Former Labour leader Ed Miliband has made a return to front-bench politics after being named by the party's new leader Keir Starmer as the Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), giving him a key role in lobbying for green policy.
MPs call for climate policy clarity on COP26 progress following postponement
The chair of the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has written to COP26 President Alok Sharma to seek an update on the "sad but unfortunate necessity" of postponing the climate summit, noting that climate change cannot afford to slip down the political agenda.
COP26 climate summit postponed due to coronavirus
The crucial summit to negotiate for higher ambitions on climate change scheduled for November in Glasgow has been postponed, with new dates for the meeting to be decided in the coming months. However, there are some positives to the delay.
A 'sensible step' and 'opportunity to rebuild': Green economy reacts to COP26 postponement
Green groups have expressed disappointment but understanding that the COP26 climate summit scheduled for Glasgow in November has been postponed until 2021, with many citing the opportunity for countries to accelerate climate action in the meantime.
Committee meetings with Claire O'Neill and Alok Sharma postponed
Due to the ongoing disruption caused by the coronavirus outbreak, the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee session with former COP26 President Claire O'Neill and the Lords Committee meeting with her replacement Alok Sharma have both been postponed.
MP's pension fund still investing in fossil fuels
MPs have yet again called for the trustees of the Parliamentary Pension Fund to divest from fossil fuel companies Royal Dutch Shell and BP, having finally integrated investment into renewables into the fund.
Online climate strikes: XR turns to digital activism amid coronavirus pandemic
Extinction Rebellion's (XR) Youth arm has taken its campaign to demand that fossil fuel representatives are excluded from COP26 negotiations online, after pausing mass demonstrations in light of the coronavirus.
Coronavirus vs. climate change and COP26: What happens next?
The coronavirus pandemic has brought the global economy to a standstill, with some now doubting whether the crucial climate talks scheduled for COP26 will be able to go ahead. So, asks Matt Mace, what impact would delaying the summit have on international efforts to combat the climate crisis?
Does the Budget put the UK on course for net-zero emissions?
Chancellor Rishi Sunak's first Budget was brimming with green funding for natural climate solutions and carbon capture and storage (CCS), but key spending reviews and strategies on the horizon will clarify whether these will act as the launchpad for a net-zero carbon economy.
edie's Net-Zero Live 2020 suspended to 10-11 November 2020
edie's publisher Faversham House has announced that Net-Zero Live 2020 - originally due to take place at Birmingham's NEC on 19-20 May 2020 - has been suspended and moved to the new date of 10 -11 November 2020.
UN head: Global action on climate crisis 'way off track'
The world is "way off track" in dealing with the climate emergency and time is fast running out, the UN secretary general has said.
Multiple House of Lords committees launch climate change inquiries
Five House of Lords committees will quiz government representatives and external climate experts on topics ranging from internal carbon markets to climate impacts on migration, in a bid to strengthen preparations for the COP 26 climate summit.
Vital COP26 climate talks could be derailed by coronavirus
Concern is growing among campaigners that vital UN climate talks will be derailed by the coronavirus outbreak, while government officials are working to find ways round the problem.
Stage set for EU-UK tussle over green credentials
Trade talks between the EU and the UK start next week, with thorny issues like state aid and fish set to complicate matters. A fight brewing over environmental standards may make an agreement by year's end even more difficult to come by.
'Investing for net-zero must go mainstream': COP26 finance strategy unveiled
The UK has published its COP26 strategy to help private finance support a global economic transition to net-zero emissions, with a heavy focus on exploring mandatory reporting requirements for climate-related data.
Report: 49% of world's GDP covered by net-zero targets
Just under half of the world's annual GDP is now covered by nations, regions and cities that are legislating for a net-zero emissions target, a new study has revealed.
Glasgow and London-based sustainable business organisations partner ahead of COP26
Glasgow's Chamber of Commerce and London's Waste and Recycling Board have forged a partnership, in a bid to help businesses in both cities make circular economy shifts ahead of COP26 in November.
Cabinet reshuffle: All the key personnel changes that will impact the green economy
BREAKING: Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers has been sacked and replaced by George Eustice, while Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom has been replaced by International Development Secretary Alok Sharma, who has also been named as COP26 President.
Alok Sharma: What we know about the COP26 President's views on climate change
In an unexpected announcement, Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom has been replaced by International Development Secretary Alok Sharma, who has also been named as COP26 President. Here, edie examines Sharma's track record on climate legislation to date.
'Climate risk is financial risk': TCFD surpasses 1,000 global supporters
The Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) has revealed that more than 1,000 organisations are supporting its recommendations, including corporates with a combined market cap of $12trn and investors with $138.8trn of assets under management collectively.
Carbon trading clarity and citizens in the spotlight: What do businesses want from COP26?
With a successor to the COP26 presidency role yet to be announced, all eyes are on Westminster for news on its plans for organising the crucial summit. But - beyond a stable delivery team - what are UK business's big asks of the conference, both in terms of organisation and execution?
Michael Gove urges 'most transparent ever COP' for Glasgow
Former Environment Secretary Michael Gove has laid out his big asks for COP26 preparations and denied rumours that he will replace former Energy Minister Claire O'Neill as the event's president during this week's cabinet reshuffle.
Reports: Budget to include new energy efficiency and EV subsidies to spur net-zero progress
Chancellor Sajid Javid is mulling a string of new subsidies to reduce building and transport emissions from homeowners and public sector organisations for next month's Budget, it has been reported.
Government's plans for low-carbon homes are 'a step backwards' on climate, London Mayor warns
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged Ministers to improve plans for decarbonising the UK's built environment sector, claiming that the capital and other cities are already going further and faster in the face of the climate emergency.
Northern Ireland declares 'climate emergency' as UK moves coal phase-out forward
In the same week that the UK Government announced green policy changes around coal and electric vehicles, the Northern Ireland Assembly has declared a 'climate emergency'.
Boris Johnson promises urgent climate action after stinging criticism
Boris Johnson has promised "urgent action" on the climate crisis, taking personal leadership of this year's UN climate talks after a blistering attack by the sacked former minister who was to lead them.
Mary Robinson: Business and governments must avoid net-zero 'hypocrisy'
EXCLUSIVE: The former president of Ireland Mary Robinson has claimed that net-zero commitments made by governments and corporates must lead to a "just transition" that also combats the "hypocrisy" of ignoring fossil fuel developments further afield.
COP26: Boris Johnson to move diesel ban forward to 2035 and call for global net-zero transition
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will use the COP26 climate conference to call on other nations to follow the UK in setting a net-zero target and is also set to reveal plans to move the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars forward five years to 2035 as part of a "year of climate action".
Sustainable Business Leadership in 2020: edie publishes results of flagship annual survey
edie has today published a comprehensive report breaking down exactly what 'business leadership' looks like from the perspective of hundreds of sustainability, CSR and energy professionals from across the country.
UK set to breach fifth carbon budget, despite setting net-zero goal
The UK is still set to miss its fifth carbon budget despite the creation of a legally-binding net-zero target for 2050 last year, new analysis has found.
Claire O'Neill removed from COP president position
Former UK energy minister Claire O'Neill will be replaced as the president for the upcoming COP26 climate conference in Glasgow this year, as Prime Minister Boris Johnson prepares to launch a new dedicated strategy for the conference.
Businesses team up to launch net-zero infrastructure taskforce
Industry bodies representing hundreds of firms across the engineering and environmental technologies sectors have partnered to analyse how the UK's infrastructure should be redesigned to meet net-zero by 2050.
Sainsbury's commits £1bn to become net-zero by 2040
Supermarket retailer Sainsbury's has pledged to invest £1bn over the next 20 years in order to become a net-zero business across its own operations.
Mark Carney announced as Boris Johnson's finance advisor for COP26
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has appointed the departing Governor for the Bank of England Mark Carney as his Finance Advisor for the COP26 climate summit, taking place in Glasgow at the end of the year.
Earthshot Prize: Royals aim to spur 'decade of action to repair planet'
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have partnered with Sir David Attenborough to launch the 'Earthshot Prize' - a new fund for individuals and organisations working to restore the environment.
CCC: Scotland must 'immediately' increase net-zero action in preparation for COP26
The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has issued its annual progress report to the Scottish Parliament, urging Ministers to "begin work immediately" on implementing short-term net-zero legislation.
'A far cry from what science tells us is needed': COP25 reaches 'disappointing' conclusion
Green campaign groups, UN officials and business representatives have expressed disappointment after two weeks of negotiations at COP25 came to a close today (15 December), almost two days behind schedule.
'Promises are not enough': Green economy reacts to Boris Johnson's historic election win
After the Conservative Party secured a landslide victory in the UK's general election, members of the nation's green economy are calling on Boris Johnson to turn the green ideations in his party's manifesto into action.
Almost half of global GDP covered by net-zero targets and commitments
Around 40% of the world's annual GDP now derives from nations and regions that are discussing or have set legislative net-zero emissions targets, to be achieved by 2050 at the latest.
![Image: Anders Hellberg Anders Hellberg [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]](https://e2k9ube.cloudimg.io/s/width/226/https://edienet.s3.amazonaws.com/news/images/full_39500.jpg?v2=04/12/2019 11:39:00)
Timeline: The rise and impact of Greta Thunberg
As climate activist Greta Thunberg heads to Madrid for the COP25 climate conference, edie looks back at her transformative rise from solo school striker to an influential public figure that has ignited a fierce debate on the inaction towards climate change.
Johnson frozen out of climate leaders debate as green groups call for net-zero pact between parties
With Prime Minister Boris Johnson quite literally frozen out of the leader's climate debate last night, more than 40 academics, policy specialists, trade bodies and businesses have called for a bipartisan net-zero pact between the UK political parties in order to ensure the nation meets its commitments.
General Election: Can UK policy deliver a climate emergency response?
As the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party launch election manifestos pledging to respond to the climate emergency by 2030, leading UK green group the Aldersgate Group has called for existing policy frameworks to be revamped to help reach the net-zero target for 2050.
Treasury's net-zero minister: Climate action will be a 'signature theme' of next government
Speaking exclusively to edie following the launch of its Net-Zero Review, HM Treasury minister Simon Clarke outlines the Government's plans to deliver on the legislation to reduce the UK's emissions to net-zero by 2050.
![Sajid Javid's Review will be published in autumn 2020. Photo: Foreign and Commonwealth Office [CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)]](https://e2k9ube.cloudimg.io/s/width/226/https://edienet.s3.amazonaws.com/news/images/full_39335.jpg?v2=02/11/2019 00:03:00)
Treasury launches Net-Zero Review to measure costs of decarbonisation
The Chancellor of the Exchequer Sajid Javid has today (2 November) launched the Net-Zero Review, the first of its kind, which will assess how the UK can manage the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Heathrow CEO: Aviation sector must set net-zero plan 'as soon as possible'
EXCLUSIVE: Heathrow Airport's chief executive John Holland-Kaye has joined the growing calls for the aviation sector to implement a net-zero strategy, claiming that "imposing punitive costs" will not deter people from flying less.
International allies give go-ahead for UK to host COP26
The UK last night (10 September) formally received the backing of all countries responsible for agreeing on the host of the COP26 climate conference.
Glasgow lined up to host COP26 climate change summit
Glasgow is set to host the COP26 climate change summit next year, should the UK win the bid to host the international event, the Government has said.
