Energy

Energy is an important part of everyones lives and the global economy, fuelling our homes, transport and workplaces. But the earth has a limited supply of fossil fuels, such as oil and gas. Their use is now producing harmful pollutants faster than our planet can cope. Carbon Dioxide emissions are causing climate change- the greatest challenge that our planet faces.

The UK has a shameful record on energy. We generate less energy from clean, renewable sources than nearly every other country in Europe- just 1% of our total energy. We are still Europe's second largest emitter of greenhouse gases. Power stations are the biggest single source of carbon dioxide emissions in the UK, followed by transport. 35% of our electricity is still produced by coal-fired power stations. 26% of our electricity comes from hazardous nuclear power.

Wind Power can meet three times our current electrcity needs in the UK. Unless we radically change how we generate and use energy, we will be responsible for climate change, pollution, and other threats to people and the environment for generations to come.

A green economy would significantly reduce energy demands and would obtain that energy from non-polluting renewable sources.

What needs to be done?

Investment in renewable sources- sun, wind, water power and biogas- must be hugely increased.
An end to nuclear power. It is expensive and dangerous, risking catastrophic accidents that could damage our health, environment and economy for generations.
More efficient energy use, better conservation and insulation measures, and a huge increase in recycling- with stronger incentives to switch to renewable energy and use energy more efficiently.
Energy should be generated, stored and distributed more locally.
Action to end ‘fuel poverty' subsidising insulation and conservation measures to make fuel bills affordable for all.

Can we afford green energy?

The cost of not turning to renewable energy is growing daily as we face the huge task of dealing with climate change, pollution and hazardous nuclear waste. The impact of climate change will bring huge, unpredictable costs as our economy, transport systems and environment are forced to adapt. Government figures put the cost of the UK's liabilities for nuclear waste at around £1000 for each person and rising.

Won't this approach harm our economy and hit jobs?

No. Studies have shown that boosting investment in renewable energy could generate hundreds of thousands of jobs. This could bring new secure employment to parts of the UK that need it most.

Is this just about the UK's needs?

No. Many wars, like the Iraq war, have been fought for the control of foreign oil and natural resources. Meeting energy needs through renewable domestic production- for the UK and other contries- is good for global peace and security.