Rule of law pivotal to climate action
Solicitors’ leaders have welcomed news that the government must revise its climate strategy to demonstrate how key emissions reduction targets will be met.
The effects of climate change were felt across the United Kingdom as England and Wales sweltered in record-breaking temperatures.
This week the High Court ruled that the government’s net zero strategy breaches the Climate Change Act.
“We welcome this court ruling,” Law Society of England and Wales president I. Stephanie Boyce said.
“The rule of law is pivotal to realising net zero and tackling the climate crisis in the United Kingdom and across the globe.
“Legislative emission reduction targets were set in the Climate Change Act 2008. It is vital these are met to deliver on the goals of the Paris Agreement and ensure the global legitimacy of government’s net zero legislative targets and climate ambition.
“Other countries can look to the UK courts as a key mechanism for keeping climate action on track through the rule of law. We look forward to seeing the UK government publish a credible and robust net zero strategy that delivers on its legislative targets.”
Last year the Law Society launched its climate change resolution, urging solicitors to take the lead in developing a climate-conscious approach to their daily practice and setting out how the Law Society can provide support. It also commits the Law Society to climate action.
“Solicitors and law firms need to prepare for how the consequences of the climate crisis will affect them and contribute to the global drive to transition to net zero,” added I. Stephanie Boyce.
The Law Society will be releasing more climate change guidance for solicitors later this year.
Notes to editors
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