The Aldersgate Group publishes its Programme for Government: Catalysing Investment in Climate and Nature - The Aldersgate Group
Informed by major businesses, NGOs and academic institutions from across the UK economy, the Aldersgate Group’s Programme for Government sets out priorities across eight key sectors. Crucially, it demonstrates the clear business consensus in favour of ambitious action on climate and nature from the next government.
The recommendations outline important climate and environmental measures that will drive growth, bolster energy security, improve productivity and create thousands of jobs across the country.
In the context of increasing global competition for green investment from the United States, EU and China, the new paper highlights how a long-term approach from the government could prevent capital flight and secure the UK’s leadership position in the industries of the future.
Today, the Aldersgate Group publishes its Programme for Government, developed following extensive engagement with major businesses, NGOs and academic institutions. It provides a clear set of recommendations that the next government should take forward to strengthen the UK economy and put the country on a positive footing for the future.
The UK’s green economy has remained resilient despite a challenging context and will be a crucial engine of future growth. Research demonstrates that the low-carbon sector grew 9% in 2023 in contrast with the wider economy, which saw only 0.1% growth during that period, and businesses involved in the sector currently provide gross value added (GVA) of £74 billion to the UK economy.
Recommendations in the publication include amending the planning system to accelerate the delivery of renewables, setting out a clear long-term industrial strategy with decarbonisation at its heart, completing the implementation of the 2023 Green Finance Strategy and delivering a UK Green Taxonomy. This is alongside vital measures to boost energy efficiency, decarbonise transport, restore nature, and develop the skills required for a low-carbon future.
As international competition from the United States, EU and China increases, the next UK Government must ensure it puts in place the policy measures required to secure green investment. This publication sets out clear priorities that are backed by major businesses from across the economy. The right approach can drive job creation, boost energy security, and increase investment across the country.