A New Government, A New Direction
This year’s party conferences are particularly significant as they mark the first since the new government took office following the general election. We are eager to see how Labour, now in power, will advance its sustainability agenda, building on the commitments made during the election campaign. Their approach to green jobs, environmental governance, and climate change will be under the spotlight, and we are keen to explore how these align with our policy recommendations for a sustainable future.
The Opposition's Stance on Sustainability
Equally important will be the perspectives and proposals of the opposition parties. The Conservative Party, Liberal Democrats, and the Green Party will all present their visions for sustainability and energy policy in this new political landscape. These conferences will offer a chance to gauge how these parties plan to hold the government accountable and push for stronger environmental policies.
We are particularly excited about the Green Party conference this year, given the historic election of four MPs. This milestone not only represents a significant shift in the political landscape but also underscores the growing importance of environmental issues among voters.
Monitoring the Energy and Sustainability Agenda
As we attend each conference, a key focus will be on what each party proposes regarding energy and sustainability. From renewable energy investments to policies aimed at achieving net-zero emissions, we will be closely monitoring the discussions and advocating for comprehensive, impactful environmental policies.
IEMA's Policy Asks
We also look forward to seeing our policy asks reflected in the conversations. Earlier this year, we published our key recommendations for UK policymakers, which outline critical actions needed across various sectors to tackle the climate and biodiversity crises. Our recommendations include:
- Green Skills and Jobs: Developing a workforce equipped to drive a green economy.
- Environmental Governance: Ensuring policies are integrated and effectively implemented.
- Biodiversity and Natural Capital: Protecting and enhancing natural ecosystems.
- Circular Economy: Promoting sustainable resource use and reducing waste.
- Climate Change and Energy: Accelerating the transition to low-carbon energy sources.
- Impact Assessment: Strengthening environmental impact assessments to ensure sustainable development.
What to Expect
Throughout the conference season, we will be engaging with policymakers and stakeholders to advocate for our recommendations and ensure that the urgency of addressing climate change and biodiversity loss is front and centre in policy discussions. We encourage everyone to watch out for updates and insights from each conference, highlighting key developments and what they mean for the future of environmental policy in the UK.
Stay tuned for more updates from the party conferences.
