A zero-emissions UK is a huge task. But the benefits will also be huge

Major action is needed to achieve zero net emissions by 2050. But it will make Britain's economy cleaner, smarter and more efficient. We must not delay

Britain needs to reach, by no later than 2050, net zero emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. This means any greenhouse gases we release must be balanced by the removal of an equivalent amount from the atmosphere.

The 2050 deadline represents our fair share of international responsibility for implementing the Paris agreement on climate change and meeting its goal of holding the rise in average global temperature to well below 2C - and pursuing best efforts to limit warming to no more than 1.5C.