Fighting Climate Change: UK's Petrol and Diesel Vehicle Ban
England continues to take important steps in the fight against climate change. One of these steps was the plan to ban the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles. However, according to recent developments, the British government is considering the idea of extending this ban until 2035. The five-year postponement of the ban, which was initially set for 2030, aims to further emphasize environmentally friendly policies.
The “green revolution” vision announced by then Prime Minister Boris Johnson in November 2020 aimed to end the sale of gasoline and diesel vehicles in 2030. However, although this target was confirmed several times until July, it turned out that the British government was considering reconsidering this timetable.
This decision came at a faster pace, especially compared to similar targets of the European Union. The European Union aims to phase out the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles by making zero emissions mandatory for new vehicles after 2035. Additionally, the EU changed its plan to allow synthetic fuels.
Climate Policies and Future Plans
Current British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to soon announce a series of measures that include relaxing policies on greenhouse gas emissions. However, according to reports, Sunak is considering not deviating from the government target, which became law in 2019 and mandates achieving a net zero emissions target by 2050.
However, there are concerns in political circles and among climate advocates about whether the UK remains committed to implementing climate policies without making it difficult. It is of great importance to emphasize environmentally friendly policies, especially towards the elections expected next year.
Conclusion
The extension of the UK's plans to ban the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles until 2035 once again shows the importance of environmentally friendly policies. Fighting climate change is becoming increasingly important around the world, and countries are turning to environmentally friendly solutions. This step by the UK can be considered as part of its commitment to leave a cleaner environment to future generations.