MPs have deemed the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) decarbonisation targets as “insufficiently demanding.”
The Defence Committee‘s latest report titled “Defence and Climate Change” emphasises the MoD’s role in contributing to the UK’s net zero carbon emissions goal by 2050.
The report underscores that while the MoD needs to maintain military capabilities, it can do more to measure and reduce emissions without compromising its operational efficiency.
Despite being responsible for half of all central government carbon dioxide emissions, the MoD’s targets for emissions reduction are among the least stringent, MPs have warned.
In striving to reach its 2025 goal of a 30% emissions reduction, the MoD relies largely on the ongoing decarbonisation efforts of National Grid, without implementing significant internal actions, according to the report.
The report urges the MoD to adopt more ambitious targets for the next phase of Greening Government Commitment from 2026-2030.
Furthermore, the committee suggests a broader measurement of emissions, including Service family accommodation and fuel usage, to accurately assess the MoD’s carbon footprint.
Chair of the Defence Committee, Tobias Ellwood, said: ”Climate change is a long-term challenge that will impact generations, but strong action is needed now. The MoD can play an important role in delivering net zero – it just needs to show leadership and ambition.”
