The United Kingdom is reportedly considering a delay in implementing the ban on the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars, potentially shifting the deadline to 2035. This represents a five-year extension from the original target of 2030, which aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as reported by the BBC.
The 2030 target was initially introduced in November 2020 as a key part of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s vision for a “green revolution.” Despite recent affirmations from senior minister Michael Gove, the British government is now contemplating a departure from this ambitious timeline.
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This 2030 deadline was initially more ambitious than the European Union’s plan, which sets a goal of mandating zero emissions for new cars sold after 2035, effectively phasing out the sale of new gasoline and diesel models. However, the EU has since allowed for the use of synthetic fuels.
Current British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to announce policy relaxations on greenhouse gas emissions in the coming days. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that Sunak will retract the government’s binding objective, set in law in 2019, to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
While Sunak’s office has not commented on the speculation, a government spokesperson emphasized the steadfast commitment to net-zero objectives. The spokesperson highlighted the government’s prioritization of pragmatism to minimize costs for UK families while remaining determined to achieve net-zero emissions.
However, concerns within the political sphere and among climate advocates suggest that under Sunak’s leadership, Britain may be losing the resolve to implement challenging climate policies, particularly with an upcoming election next year.
Sunak’s handling of climate policies has faced scrutiny, particularly after his emphasis on a “proportionate approach” to climate change that aims to balance net-zero aspirations with the need to control consumer costs. Sunak has defended Britain’s record in reducing carbon emissions, claiming superiority over other major nations.
Meanwhile, the European Union has also faced criticism for its policies. In March, Germany and seven other nations formed an alliance to oppose the 2035 ban on internal combustion engine vehicles, leading to recent concessions. Additionally, companies like Porsche and Lamborghini are continuing to develop synthetic fuels, which are promoted as carbon neutral and could extend the lifespan of internal combustion engine vehicles beyond 2035.
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