Commenting on todays publication of the final estimates of UK greenhouse gas emissions, Minister for Energy and Climate Change, Joan Ruddock, said;
Todays greenhouse gas emissions statistics are encouraging and show a continued decline in greenhouse gas emissions of nearly 2% during 2008. We are now clearly exceeding our Kyoto target of 12.5% below 1990 levels. UK emissions are now 19.4% below 1990 levels without emissions trading or 22% including emissions trading. The UK is demonstrating the kind of year-on-year reductions that set an example in the world community.
We are determined to strengthen and sustain the momentum behind the low-carbon transition in the UK, supporting investment in low carbon technology, creating green jobs and providing a healthier future for everyone.
Building on the Copenhagen Accord is a priority for the government and we will increase our efforts to encourage others not only to associate with it but to accelerate its implementation.
