CBI challenges short-term CO2 targets - wants longer term 'milestones'
Sun 10 July 2005
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The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has described Britain's short-term targets on climate change as "unrealistic", saying that industry prefers longer term targets that are "stretching but achievable". The CBI backed the Government's goal of a 60% cut in carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.
Speaking at a seminar hosted by Defra the CBI president, John Sunderland, said that Government should set a realistic timetable that relates to business investment cycles. He called for intermediate milestones, such as a 2025 target that would give business more certainty and time to plan for investment.
In an announcement relating to the same conference, the Institute of Directors (IoD) said that tackling climate change has to be a duty for all sections of society and not just the business community.
Miles Templeman, Director General of the IoD, said: "Reducing carbon emissions will require bold policies...Business has been cleaning up its act for a number of years and it is now up to the Government to take the lead."
LowCVP Chairman, Graham Smith, spoke on behalf of the Partnership at the Defra-organised event.
Related Links
FT story link
Institute of Directors website (follow press office link)
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