The United Kingdom's Climate Change Programme was launched by the British government in response to its commitment to the Kyoto Protocol on global warming. It aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions not only by the agreed 12.5% from 1990 levels, but by 20% by 2010.

In 2004, the UK was the world's 8th greatest producer of carbon emissions, producing around 2.3% of the total generated from fossil fuels.

Climate Change Levy

Current actions aimed at achieving these targets include the a Climate Change Levy on all non-domestic energy bills, typically raising them by 8% to 10%. Introduced on April 1, 2001, the levy applies to all 'traditional' energy sources, and the funds raised are collected by The Carbon Trust.

Renewables Obligation

Introduced on April 1, 2002, the Renewables Obligation requires all commercial electricity suppliers to generate a set portion of their electricity from renewables; a proportion that will increase each year until 2027 from a 3% requirement in 2002-2003, via 10.4% in 2010-2011 (figures for subsequent years had not been published at the time of writing).

Nottingham Declaration

In Local government, a growing number of councils have signed up to the Nottingham Declaration, launched on October 25, 2000, committing them to work towards reducing emissions.

Housing and Community Grants

Grants to assist with the installation of renewable energy sources in domestic properties and for community groups have been made available through the Clear Skies organisation, and are also able to participate in the Major Photovoltaics Demonstration programme.

See also

• Economy of the United Kingdom.
• Climate of the United Kingdom.
• European Union.
• UK topics.
• Kyoto Protocol.

External links

• United Kingdom Government Climate Change Programme
• Government Climate Change Project Office
• The Carbon Trust
• Text of the Nottingham Declaration (.doc)
• http://www.saveenergy.co.uk/
• Climate Change - News and information on climate change, alternative energy etc. Includes frequent stories and press releases related to the UK's Climate Change policy