Following the government’s pre-budget report, Oxfam today called on Gordon Brown and Alistair Darling to go much further and provide a green rescue package that would not just rescue the
economy, but establish the UK as a leader in rescuing the planet and the millions of poor people living on the frontline of climate change. Oxfam campaigns and policy
director Phil Bloomer said: “The disastrous effects of climate change are being felt by millions of poor people around the world. Not only are these people the least well equipped to cope with
climate change, they are the least responsible for it. It is industrialised countries’ historic emissions that are causing the current climate crisis and these countries, including the UK, have
an obligation to act now.” At home, Oxfam is calling for the Government to boost investment in renewable energy, green buildings, energy efficiency and public
transport. This will result in massive job creation and enterprise opportunities, enhance energy security, and protect householders from high and volatile energy prices. Internationally, the UK must lead both in the EU and internationally on the agreement of a new climate deal that will cut emissions and provide the finance, technology and assistance required for
developing countries to adapt to climate change and move onto a path of clean development. Bloomer: The UK’s obligation to act decisively on climate change is also a
huge opportunity. It could kick-start the economy, and to put the world on course for a new climate deal that puts the people and planet first. Gordon Brown and Alistair Darling must seize this
opportunity now, before it’s too late.”Â
The Green Business Council estimates that goods and services in energy efficiency in homes are worth
£3.5-£6.5 billion a year.
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In Germany, the renewable energy sector employs a quarter of a million people, supplies 14% of national
electricity and generates annual revenues of £150 billion.
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In France, companies operating in renewables and energy efficiency already
employ more people than the car industry.
 For more information, contact Lucy Brinicombe, 01865 472192 / 07786 110054 / lbrinicombe@oxfam.org.uk More
from the Oxfam Press Office at http://www.oxfam.org.uk/news
[ Any views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not of Reuters. ]
China's Premier Wen Jiabao delivers a speech during the opening ceremony of Beijing high-level conference on climate change at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing November 7, 2008. REUTERS/Jason ...
