I recently read an interesting article which stated that if you count the number of days left until the UK has to meet its net zero carbon target, there are now less than 10,000 days to go. For context: 10,000 days ago was March 31st, 1995!
What we have achieved since 1995 seems startlingly, woefully inadequate. We are at the halfway point – but we are not really halfway there.
Since 1995, the names may have changed, but the problems haven’t.
The Challenge is even greater now
Waiting for the amazing carbon capture revolution, the massive tree planting campaigns and electrification of the grid using nuclear and renewables is not even a “kicking the can down the road” plan – it’s far worse. There just isn’t the time to expect the market to come to the rescue with solutions.
The transition to a sustainable way of life won’t be possible if we leave it even a decade to make a huge shift. If we had got serious in 1995 – (before Kyoto agreements, and computer modelling for optimised pathways) then net zero in 2050 would have been achievable, however, at our current rate of global emissions, the carbon budget will be gone in 9 years.
I have never believed that technology could provide all the answers. It won’t be our saviour. I believe though that we need to act Now. Economically, limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees seems like an impossibly optimistic dream. It’s already baked in.
So, how much change is needed to get there in less than 10,000 days?
Well, the change in society and the eradication of throw away habits will be hardest to achieve, but these are things that many people already knew in 1995.
BIG change…?
We can do it Now (in the developed world).
BIG policy now?
Tax the polluters (not the consumers). Passing on the cost of fossil fuel-based rises and making a huge profit isn’t the road to 2050 (listen to Chris Rea’s The Road To Hell again 
– he knew in 1989.)
Waste not, want not, now?
Single use items, throw away fashion, food going to landfill. Just don’t do it. Ask the Pet Shop Boys, they knew it in 1987 with It’s a Sin.
Circular Economy Now?
Repair, reuse, re-purpose - before you buy/build new. Only buy deep green, bio-based, long-lasting, locally sourced, and hand-made items. Queen knew this in 1978 with: Don’t Stop Me Now.
A retrofit revolution Now?
Millions of people will benefit from better insulation and healthier homes. It’s far more relevant and important than any other infrastructure project in the UK - bar none.
That’s what I believe – and already do. What about you?
Carl Dodd, Property Revolutions Ltd.
