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Tackling climate change, reducing poverty

On 12 January 2009, the New Economics Foundation (NEF) published the first report by a coalition of leading UK environmental and social justice groups (Tackling climate change, reducing poverty) which argues that the government cannot choose between tackling poverty and climate change, it must begin to tackle these related issues together.

The report seeks to demonstrate that tackling climate change actually offers a huge opportunity to boost the economy and tackle UK poverty at the same time.

For instance, home insulation cuts fuel bills, keeps homes warm, and reduces CO2 emissions; investment in public transport provides affordable travel for all and cuts air pollution; and the move to a low-carbon economy could be a stimulus for new skilled jobs in home insulation and energy efficiency.

The report recommends:

• Improving household energy efficiency, reducing both emissions and fuel poverty.
• Planning for an equitable transition to a low carbon economy; paving the way for the UK to capitalise on the opportunities and harness the benefits of the new low-carbon economy including the creation of 'green collar' jobs.
• Promoting sustainable public service provision, including low-carbon food procurement for hospitals and schools.
• Improving the existing housing stock; moving towards low carbon design in housing and urban development.
• Investing in a public transport system, which is better for the environment and more equitable.

Tackling climate change, reducing poverty (PDF)