At COP29, the UN Secretary General António Guterres described 2024 as “a masterclass in human destruction”. The chaos and misery we have seen around the world this year – from flooding, wildfires, heatwaves, droughts, and storms – have been deeply distressing. Especially since those who have suffered the most are those who have the least responsibility for this crisis.
But there is hope! In January, the landmark Climate and Nature Bill will have its Second Reading. This cross-party Bill is backed by almost 200 MPs from all the main parties. It has the support of the Church of England’s lead bishop for the environment, Bishop Graham Usher – alongside representatives from all major faith groups, plus 1200 UK climate and nature scientists including 5 Nobel Laureates.
Written by scientists the Bill will ensure the UK’s two key international pledges on climate and nature – made at Paris in 2015 and Montreal in 2022 – are legally binding. At present we’re on track to meet either, and the current Government is the last one which can achieve them before their 2030 target.
Can you email your MP and urge them to attend the Second Reading on Friday 24 January? It needs 102 supporting MPs to vote for it to progress to committee stage. Visit www.zerohour.uk to find out more.
