Saturday, March 29, 2025
The UK net zero 2050 target is under scrutiny. Conservative shadow energy minister Andrew Bowie called the target “arbitrary” and claimed it lacks scientific basis. His comments have sparked fears of a shift in the UK’s climate policy if the Tories return to power.
Bowie accused climate scientists of bias. He also suggested the UK might exit the Paris climate agreement under party leader Kemi Badenoch. The current net zero target, introduced by Theresa May, was criticized by Bowie as politically convenient rather than science-based.
“We shouldn’t be hamstrung by arbitrary targets like 2050,” Bowie stated. “It’s a date chosen for optics, not for scientific reasons.”
However, scientists strongly disagree. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) says reaching net zero by mid-century is essential. It is the only path to limit global warming to under 2°C, as promised in the Paris Agreement.
Bowie confirmed that the Conservative Party’s policy review includes the UK’s role in the Paris Agreement. If the UK withdraws, it would join the US as the only nation to exit the accord.
He also claimed that some scientists disagree with the 2050 target. But when asked, Bowie and his team could not name any of them. Experts quickly refuted his claim.
“From a scientific point of view, net zero is absolutely crucial,” said climatologist Friederike Otto. “We can’t stabilise temperatures without it.”
Environmentalists and scientists reacted strongly. Mike Childs from Friends of the Earth called the remarks irresponsible.
“The IPCC includes the world’s top scientists from 195 countries. Their findings go through years of review. It’s absurd for a politician to claim more expertise than them.”
The OECD and other economic groups also disagree with Bowie. They believe tackling climate change will strengthen the economy, not weaken it. The 2006 Stern Review and recent studies support this view.
The UK net zero 2050 target played a key role at COP26 in Glasgow, where the UK led efforts for international climate cooperation. Now, under Bowie’s leadership and with Kemi Badenoch’s scepticism, the Conservatives may abandon the 2050 timeline. Bowie admitted the party might keep a net zero target, but likely not for 2050.
Bowie is serving as the acting shadow energy secretary while Claire Coutinho is on maternity leave. He’s helping lead the review that could reshape UK climate and energy strategy.
