News
02 Apr 2025
The UK government has unveiled plans for the first new national forest in over three decades. Spanning approximately 6,000 acres across Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Somerset, this ambitious project aims to plant around 20 million trees by 2050. The initiative seeks to enhance biodiversity, improve air quality and provide green spaces for local communities. By integrating forestry with agriculture, the project challenges the notion that tree planting conflicts with farming, demonstrating a harmonious balance between environmental and economic interests.
The UK’s greenhouse gas emissions fell by 4% in 2024, decreasing from 385 million metric tonnes of CO₂ equivalent in 2023 to 371 million tonnes. This marks a 54% reduction from 1990 levels. Key factors contributing to this decline include the closure of the country’s last coal-fired power station and a 15% reduction in emissions from the electricity sector, driven by increased renewable energy generation and higher electricity imports. Transport remains the largest source of emissions, accounting for 30% of the total, though it experienced a 2% decrease due to reduced diesel car usage. These achievements highlight the UK’s ongoing efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
The global push for renewable energy has reached unprecedented levels, with a record 585 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity added in 2024. This represents a 15.1% increase, bringing the total to 4,448 GW. Renewables accounted for over 90% of total power expansion worldwide, with solar and wind energy leading the way. China played a pivotal role, contributing nearly 64% of the new capacity, primarily through solar installations. Despite this progress, experts emphasise the need for continued acceleration to meet global renewable energy targets by 2030.
A recent study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reveals that proactive climate action can bolster economic growth. The research indicates that by 2050, advanced economies could see a 60% increase in GDP per capita, while lower-income countries might experience a 124% rise from 2025 levels. Conversely, inaction could result in a loss of one third of global GDP this century. These findings underscore the economic benefits of investing in emissions reductions and clean energy initiatives, highlighting that addressing the climate crisis can simultaneously drive economic prosperity.
In a significant advancement for energy storage, Europe’s largest battery has commenced operations in the United Kingdom. This facility enhances the stability and reliability of the power grid by storing excess renewable energy and releasing it during peak demand periods. The implementation of such large-scale battery systems is crucial for integrating renewable energy sources and ensuring a consistent energy supply as the UK transitions to a greener economy.
These milestones reflect a collective dedication to environmental sustainability and demonstrate the tangible benefits of integrating green initiatives into national and global strategies. Be part of the momentum and discover how your organisation can support and benefit from the shift towards a more sustainable future.
From the creation of a new national forest to record-breaking renewable energy growth and falling emissions, the UK is making significant strides towards net zero.
