Reply to Net Zero Strategy – Center for London

In response to the government’s Net Zero strategy, Rob Whitehead, Director of Strategic Projects at the Center for London said:

“Transport and heating are both major contributors to the climate crisis, causing about half of London’s carbon emissions, but government pledges do not go far enough to support greener heating and transport.

“Almost a fifth of UK households are in London and more resources are needed to support the transition from gas heating, not just for heat pumps but also for the insulation and upgrading of the radiators needed to make them work . London’s unique mix of housing stock, ownership and income also requires specific measures to make this change happen on a large scale, including greater local scrutiny.

“The guarantee that sales of new gasoline and diesel cars will cease by 2030 will help reduce future carbon emissions, as will further funding for electric vehicle infrastructure. However, it is unlikely that we will meet our net zero commitments without investing in a significant shift towards using public transport, walking and cycling, and other sustainable options such as e-bikes and e-scooters.

“The government needs to keep building up its net zero ambitions, like London moving forward with a goal for 2030, and bringing bold ideas to the table, from road tolls to legalizing micromobility vehicles.”