Effects of lockdown could see UK emissions drop but climate change is still a threat

Over the strictest period of lockdown (March to May) in the UK, when people were confined to their home other than for essential purpose, analysis states that carbon emissions were reduced by 36 per cent. No cars on the road. Public transport at a minimum. Buildings not in use.

Sky News goes on to report that if we progress in a linear way, carbon emissions will reduce by 11 per cent this year – a much bigger drop than the 3 per cent target set by the Committee on Climate Change (based in the assumption that schools and businesses be back as usually by the beginning of October).

Whilst this is some good news in what has been (and continues to be) a dire situation for many, socially and economically, it is important to acknowledge that the dent we’ve made is just that – small. Richard Betts, a scientist at the UK’s Met Office, told National Geographic that the disruption in carbon emission only results in a tiny drop in the overall concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere because of how long the gas effectively lingers and accumulates.

This is no time for businesses and individuals alike to give up on green solution strategies. Working hard to deplete our carbon footprint is imperative, with the focus on three main areas: power, transport and buildings (accounting for 84 per cent of UK emissions) – reducing, reusing and recycling. Every business can do it – no matter how big or how small.

For all your energy related questions, feel free to contact the CH Systems team on 0208 302
8149 or info@chsystems.cc.