The United Kingdom has seen a significant increase in its CO2 emissions due to the government’s decision to freeze fuel duty. According to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the UK’s CO2 emissions rose by up to 7% in the first quarter of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.
The fuel duty freeze was introduced in 2011 and has been extended several times since then. It means that the price of petrol and diesel has remained the same for the past nine years, making it cheaper for drivers to fill up their cars. This has led to an increase in car usage, resulting in more CO2 emissions.
The BEIS report also found that the UK’s emissions from transport rose by 4.6% in the first quarter of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. This is largely due to the increased use of cars, as well as a rise in freight transport. The report also highlighted that the UK’s emissions from electricity generation fell by 8.5% in the first quarter of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.
The government has been criticised for its decision to freeze fuel duty, as it has led to an increase in CO2 emissions. The government has argued that the freeze is necessary to help people who rely on their cars for essential journeys, such as those who live in rural areas or have limited access to public transport.
The government has also announced plans to introduce a new Clean Air Zone in London, which will charge drivers of older, more polluting vehicles for entering certain areas of the city. This is part of a wider plan to reduce air pollution and tackle climate change.
Overall, the UK’s CO2 emissions have increased significantly due to the government’s decision to freeze fuel duty. This has led to an increase in car usage, resulting in more CO2 emissions from transport. The government has been criticised for its decision, but it has argued that it is necessary to help people who rely on their cars for essential journeys. The government is also introducing other measures, such as a Clean Air Zone in London, to reduce air pollution and tackle climate change.
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