IEMA Reaction to Conservative Party Leadership Result

The appointment of Boris Johnson as leader of the Conservative party marks a new chapter in the Brexit process. The process of leaving the EU inevitably gives rise to uncertainty – for the UK economy, society and environment.

In setting out the next steps in the process and articulating a vision for the future, it is vital that the new Government seizes the opportunity to establish a long-term framework for the environment and provide policy-certainty to support investment as we transition the UK economy to net-zero carbon emissions.

Commenting on Boris Johnson’s success in the Conservative Party leadership election, Martin Baxter IEMA’s Chief Policy Advisor said:

“The new leader has an opportunity to put sustainability at the heart of the UK’s economic model.An economy that is fit for the future requires a long-term policy framework to deliver on the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation - unlocking investment to support our future prosperity.

We look forward to working with the new Government to build on work already underway on an ambitious new Environment Act, and to supporting the delivery of the UK’s 2050 net-zero carbon target.”

To take advantage of the opportunities arising from the transition to a sustainable economy, businesses need a workforce that has the necessary skills and capabilities.

Baxter added: “Our education and vocational skills systems need to fully embed sustainability if we’re to address the UK’s productivity gap and deliver the UK’s net-zero target In schools and colleges – in apprenticeships and degrees – sustainability needs to be embedded in the curriculum, standards and qualifications to equip people with the skills to create a sustainable future”.