The Government has formally pledged to cut global warming emissions by one third in just over a decade, making the UK the first country in the world to set legally binding targets.
The Budget report purports to cut greenhouse gases by 34% by 2020 through so-called carbon budgets, which fix binding limits on greenhouse gas emissions over five-year periods.
The Government also said there would be a greater cut if a satisfactory global agreement on cutting emissions was reached, but stopped short of committing to the higher 42% cut recommended by the Government's independent watchdog, the Committee on Climate Change.
While environmental campaigners and business groups have welcomed the commitment to firm targets, critics warn that the emissions cuts are far too weak to avoid dangerous climate change.
Friends of the Earth believe the 34% cut is insufficient. Andy Atkins, the organisation's executive director said, "Setting the first ever carbon budgets is a ground-breaking step, but the Government has ignored the latest advice from leading climate scientists and set targets that are completely inadequate. A 42% cut by 2020 is the minimum required if we are to play our part in avoiding dangerous climate change."
Moreover, some commentators claim the Budget does not include enough money for renewable energy like wind and tidal power, and energy efficiency for homes and other buildings.
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