Net zero has become a polluted political phrase, focus needed on what transition means for communities
The call from the chair of the Government-backed Great British Energy for a major change in language around efforts to tackle climate change should be a wake up call for all policymakers.
Jürgen Maier, chair of Great British Energy, has called for the phrase ‘net zero’ to be scrapped as he feels it has become politicised.
The sad reality is that while the majority of people would readily welcome attempts to protect the planet, the term ‘net zero’ itself has become polluted.
Even some who wish to see action taken to combat climate change are becoming suspicious about what it means for them and their communities. Net zero is being construed as a negative. It has enabled opportunists to co-opt the phrase for political gain, no matter what the cost to the planet.
This is a reminder of how important language is when it comes to policy. But so is delivery. Unless the Government gets a handle on its approach to policy, it will do generational damage to efforts to tackle climate change. Mr Maier’s sentiment is echoed by Sam Parry, a commissioner with Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission. Calling ‘net zero’ “a technical and abstract term”.
As they both suggest an emphasis on reindustrialisation and the opportunities that will provide communities is needed.
When it comes to the roll out of net zero infrastructure, there is still a sense that it is something that is done to communities than something done with and for communities. This newspaper reiterates the need to bring people on the journey, through encouragement, engagement and education.