Whatever our views on climate change - the causes and/or the effects - every business, organisation and individual feels the impact of the legislation that is designed to reduce carbon emissions in the UK. Already for example, there is the "climate change levy (CCL) on energy used; there are a wide range of financial incentives for businesses and householders to improve energy efficiency, and there are more and more taxes to discourage the use of CO2 emitting fuels for transport.
However, the Climate Change Bill due to be finalised in the next few months sets out a legal framework for the setting CO2 reduction targets and extensive powers for the government to introduce both carrots and sticks to ensure these targets are met. There will be no escaping the penalties for those who do not take appropriate action! There will also be many opportunities for businesses and other organisations to reduce their costs, improve their reputation and gain competitive advantage by taking appropriate action early.
The government is seeking views on the contents of the bill, but you only have until 12 June 2007 to have your say.
You will find the draft bill in full and in summary form, together with the consultation response documents at:
http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/climatechange-bill/
