Britain's Emissions Decline: A Step Closer to Net Zero

Britain's greenhouse gas emissions dropped by 4% in 2024 due to the closure of its last coal-fired power plant and decreased industrial emissions. The UK aims for net zero by 2050, necessitating increased renewable energy. Transport and industrial sectors saw significant emissions cuts.

In a critical move toward environmental sustainability, Britain's greenhouse gas emissions fell by 4% in 2024, as revealed by provisional government data on Thursday. The decline is attributed to the closure of the last coal-fired power plant and reductions in emissions from the industrial sector.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) reported total estimated emissions at 371 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, down from 385 million in 2023. Notably, the electricity sector experienced the largest drop, credited to increased electricity imports, greater renewable generation, and the complete cessation of coal-fired power production.

This transition marks Britain as the first G7 country to cease coal usage for power generation. A 9% drop in industrial sector emissions was attributed to blast furnace closures in iron and steel production and a decrease in coal use. Additionally, transport emissions—the UK's largest source of greenhouse gases—fell by 2%, thanks to reduced road vehicle diesel consumption.

(With inputs from agencies.)