Why the net zero committee wants to stop using the term ‘net zero’

PoliticsEnvironment
17 Sep 2026 • 5:39 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Why the net zero committee wants to stop using the term ‘net zero’

  • The Energy Security and Net Zero Committee recommended that the UK government drop the term net zero from official department branding and key communications.
  • MPs on the cross-party panel stated the phrase has become a lightning rod for opposition to climate action amid rising cost-of-living pressures.
  • The report highlighted that political consensus has fractured, with parties like Reform UK and the Conservatives pulling back from climate targets.
  • Committee member Graeme Downie argued energy policy must focus pragmatically on lowering consumer costs, boosting innovation, and creating jobs.
  • Energy minister Martin McCluskey defended the transition as vital for national security, though he conceded the government needs to improve its messaging.

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