UK's Post-Brexit Green Watchdog Sparks Concern Over Climate Change Omission
The UK's departure from the EU has raised concerns about who will enforce environmental rules and climate change commitments. Lord Deben, chair of the Committee on Climate Change (CCC), has called for a new watchdog with powers to hold the US government accountable. However, the US government's proposal excludes climate change from the watchdog's brief, sparking surprise and concern.
Amy Mount of Greener UK finds it surprising that climate change is omitted from the watchdog's remit, given the interlinkages between environmental policies and climate benefits. The CCC has previously warned of significant gaps in US government climate policies, with EU regulations driving around 55% of emissions cuts needed by 2030. European negotiators are worried that the US may lower environmental standards post-Brexit and want robust domestic enforcement.
The proposed watchdog can issue advisory notices but lacks the power to take the US government to court or cover climate change matters. Interdepartmental turf wars and political differences between ministers may be influencing the consultation on the post-Brexit green watchdog. Currently, the European Commission monitors and enforces compliance with climate protection laws, but no other European institution is designated to take over this role after the UK's departure.
The exclusion of climate change from the proposed green watchdog has raised questions about the US's commitment to its environmental goals. As the US leaves the EU, it is crucial to establish a strong, independent body that can effectively enforce environmental rules and hold the US government accountable on climate change matters.
