UK emissions rising

UK greenhouse emission have been growing in line with the economy, instead of falling since the 1990s, according to two separate reports.

These reports highlight the importance of working in partnership with suppliers to reduce emissions in the supply chain."

A report authored by the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) suggests that the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions are 49% higher than reported emissions.  The increase in emissions is in line with a second joint Defra SEI report, released on 2 July 2008, that showed CO2 emissions have gone up 18% between 1992 and 2004 when all emissions are counted.

Widening emissions counting

Both reports are dependent on including emissions from aviation, shipping and imported goods.  Under the internationally agreed system for carbon accounts, these emissions are not included in a country’s greenhouse gas statistics.  This has allowed the UK government to calculate that its greenhouse gases have been falling. 

The Defra SEI report shows that while manufacturing in the UK has closed down and moved to countries like China, emissions have grown due to a long consumer boom which has increased the volume of imported products.  Cheap flights have also increased air travel.

Both reports, from the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), are a blow to the British Government claim of de-coupling economic growth from emissions growth.

Supply chain emissions

Jim Haywood, Environment Director at Business in the Community said "These reports highlight the importance of working in partnership with suppliers to reduce emissions in the supply chain."

For more information on how to reduce your supply chain emissions and other May Day Pledges visit the May Day Network website.