General Election Announced – Friends of the Earth reaction

Jamie Peters, climate co-ordinator at Friends of the Earth, said:

“This general election must be a gamechanger for people and the planet.

“Inflation might be down today, but the cost-of-living crisis is far from over and we’re still paying far more on our gas and electricity bills than before the energy crisis. This won’t change while our energy system remains hooked on gas, leaving the UK exposed to volatile global markets. Meanwhile, water companies and other polluters are getting away scot-free with dumping toxic waste into our rivers and seas, threatening our health, and devastating wildlife and nature.​

“Voters across the country back the action needed to meet our climate goals and protect nature for future generations. Political candidates should take note of this during their election campaigns.

​“Now we need to see all parties commit to the strong, green policies needed to tackle the climate and nature crises and ensure we all benefit from a fossil-free future. This means vastly scaling up cheap homegrown renewables, investing in insulation and green industries, which would create new jobs, boost energy security and save us all money on our bills for good. We must also see an end to the environmental destruction and injustices caused by polluting companies in the UK and globally.”