Thread by @GreenpeaceUK

This week, one thing we know: if the UK government believes there is a #ClimateEmergency it certainly isn’t acting like it. 🚨

Here’s a tale of words and not deeds. About the UK government’s climate commitments and climate action (or lack of).

Read on… #SolarVAT #NetZero 1/8

In May, the UK parliament declared a #ClimateEmergency… but this shouldn’t be mistaken for climate ACTION. 2/8

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To tackle this #ClimateEmergency we're going to need lots of clean power. Like #solar power…

Solar got a rough start. It used to be thought of as too expensive and took subsidies to really get going...

3/8

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Meanwhile the climate crisis has been getting worse and vulnerable communities are already suffering. Things like cyclones are becoming more severe >> 4/8

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But the Government just committed to "net zero" - that means emissions from homes, transport, farming and industry will have to be avoided completely OR offset by planting trees 🌳🌳🌳 or sucking CO2 out of the atmosphere.

So there’s hope right? 5/8

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Aaaand solar is finally starting to be installed unsubsidised on big roofs like on supermarkets. As costs keep coming down, ordinary folks should be able to do it on their own homes too... 6/8

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Except, @hmtreasury seems to have a different idea. Proposing a VAT increase from 5% to 20% while the tax on coal will stay at a lower rate.

Why oh WHY would the Treasury want to slow down or halt the delivery of the clean power we badly need?? 7/8

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So, UK gov, are we tackling this #ClimateEmergency or aren't we?

From where we're sitting, it's all hot air. 8/8