A new report published by the Centre for Alternative Technology, on Wednesday 16th June, includes input from 13 universities, 12 research bodies and eight key industry players, highlights a path for a zero carbon transition by 2030. For the first time, comprehensive energy strategy has been produced that could reduce emissions to zero for all regaining energy security.
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»˜zerocarbonbritain 2030 shows how the right mix of wind power, hydro, solar, biomass Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»“ plus an intelligent grid to manage demand. We can Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»˜keep the lights onÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™ and supply the energy the country needs Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»“ with major win/wins across the economy.Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™ Paul Allen CAT.
The report, aims to integrate thinking across a range of sectors and identify potential for Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»˜Powering DownÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™ through reducing demand and Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»˜Powering UpÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™ renewables to 100% by 2030 with no requirement for nuclear energy.
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»˜We have the lifetime of this parliament to break BritainÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™s fossil fuel addiction. The BP fiasco underlines how important it is that we act now. If we do, we can enjoy greater energy security and a more sustainable, dynamic and resilient economy. If we donÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™t we will lurch from one energy and environmental crisis to another on a downward spiral. Zerocarbonbritain 2030 shows us how to begin the Great Transition and reveals its huge potential.Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™ Andrew Simms, policy director of nef (the new economics foundation).
Key priorities
Transport
63% reduction in energy use for transport could be achieved by:
- A switch from petrol/diesel powered vehicles to electric/battery powered vehicles.
- Rail and bus services replacing domestic and short haul flights.
- Two thirds reduction in long haul aviation using kerosene fuel produced fro coppice in the UK.
Buildings
50% reduction in heat and electricity demand could be achieved by:
- Insulation of all of BritainÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™s uninsulated cavity walls and lofts.
- Using natural construction materials such as wood, straw and other natural materials will lock away CO2.
Land use
- Britain can grow most of its own food whilst still producing biomass for heating, electricity and transport fuel.
- Land can be used to mop up residual emissions through sequestration.
- A 80% reduction in livestock products that generate 82% of greenhouse gases in the agricultural sector. Non-livestock products generate more food and have a higher nutritional value.
Policy
The report also recognises that action in the UK alone is not enough, making the transition will require unprecedented collaboration on a global scale. The report:
- Emphasises the urgent need for an international agreement.
- Explores different policy options for emissions reduction including cap and trade, carbon tax and tradable energy quotas.
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»˜CATÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™s new report shows that a zero carbon Britain is both desirable and achievable. The first stop on the journey should be a 10% reduction. We have tens of thousands of individuals and businesses already working towards this target. CATÂ鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™s report should serve as an inspiration to us all,Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»™ Eugenie Harvey, Director 10:10 UK.
The Royal Institution of Great Britain