Introduction FAQs

What is zerocarbonbritain2030?

Who wrote it and who supports it?

zerocarbonbritain2030 is a fully integrated vision of how Britain can respond to the challenges of climate change, resource depletion and global inequity. It examines how we can meet our electricity and heating requirements through efficient service provision, while still decreasing emissions. There are many potential solutions already in existence and in operation, ready for wider application.

In addition, it shows that making the necessary transition to a low-carbon future would not only stimulate the economy and create employment, it would also provide greater security, freedom and an enriched quality of life.

The report is divided into five sections:

Context presents the evidence on which the report is based: the science that lies behind our need to change our path, how much needs to be done, and how quickly.

PowerDown examines how we can reduce heat and electricity demand largely through new technology, efficient design and behaviour change. It looks in depth at two key sectors: the built environment, and transport.

Land Use and Agriculture identifies the emissions originating from land use and how these can be reduced. It also examines how we can use the land to provide resources to help the other sectors to decarbonise and sequester our residual emissions.

PowerUp highlights the potential for renewables in the UK and demonstrates how energy demand can be met through the use of renewable technology by 2030.

Framework discusses the international and national legislation and incentives that can support changes in energy generation and use, and examines the job creation that will come with it.

The report demonstrates that Britain has the potential to become a global leader in sustainable technology and policy.

Who is the report aimed at?

The report is intended to spur discussion and debate amongst the whole of society, demonstrating how greenhouse gas emissions could be completely eliminated from a developed society.

It is intended to act as a reference point for politicians and policy makers. It can also be used as an educational tool and can help local community groups and enthusiasts gain a broad knowledge of solutions to climate change.

You can help spread knowledge about the project by speaking or writing to your MP, MSP, AM, or MEP about zerocarbonbritain2030, or by volunteering to present zerocarbonbritain2030 to other organisations and groups who might be interested.

Who wrote it and who supports it?

zerocarbonbritain2030 is a hugely collaborative project coordinated by the Centre for Alternative Technology. The Centre for Alternative Technology is Europe's leading eco-centre, based near Machynlleth, Wales. It receives over 70,000 visitors a year and runs environmental courses ranging from weekend solar PV installation to academic courses from its Graduate School for the Environment.

The report has benefited greatly from contributions, comments and reviews from numerous experts in the field, including Sir John Houghton, Godfrey Boyle, Rob Hopkins, Graham Parkhurst, Paul Davies, Hugo Spowers, and Victoria Johnson.

The project has also been financially assisted by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, the Carnegie UK Trust, the William A. Cadbury Trust, the Waterloo Trust, the Simon Gibson Charitable Trust, the W.F. Southall Trust, the Marmot Charitable Trust, and the Gunter Charitable Trust. Many thanks also to all our individual private donors whose anonymity is respected and support greatly appreciated.

How was it created?

Combining experience of the sector with knowledge gained from expert seminars and a series of public events, the zerocarbonbritain2030 vision was co-created. This report builds on over 30 years experience of developing alternatives to our current unsustainable use of natural resources. Founded in 1973, the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth first published An Alternative Energy Strategy for the UK in 1977.

Thirty years later, the first ZeroCarbonBritain report was produced, in response to the scientific evidence on both climate instability and energy security which revealed a situation more urgent than had been anticipated. That report showed how Britain could decrease its energy demand by around 50%, and then go on to meet this reduced demand through indigenous renewable reserves.

Now the concepts explored in the first ZeroCarbonBritain report have been updated and fully integrated through additional input from external experts and organisations. The scope has also been widened, for example through an extensive examination of food and farming practices, and through a greater focus on the role of behavioural change strategies.

Can I get a copy?

Yes, it’s available free to download from this website, or full colour hardcopies are available for £39.95. The printed report can be purchased from the CAT eco store.

How can I get involved?

We encourage your support and there are several ways which you can help. You can help by speaking or writing to your MP, MSP, AM, or MEP about zerocarbonbritain2030, or by volunteering to present zerocarbonbritain2030 to organisations and groups who might be interested.