7 March 2005
The Prime Minister has announced a milestone strategy for sustainable development in which local and central Government will lead by example.
‘Securing the Future’ requires public services and systems to be delivered without negatively affecting future generations or people in less affluent parts of the globe.
The strategy features around 250 commitments to action in four areas: sustainable consumption and production, climate change and energy, protecting natural resources, and sustainable communities.
One of the first actions will be the creation of a new task force. It will draw up a national action plan to make the UK a sustainability leader within the EU by 2009.
Mr Blair said:
"By joining up thinking and action across all levels of government, and by setting long-term objectives, the Government is dedicated to securing the future for all.
"I want to use this new strategy as a catalyst for action."
An innovative scheme will require Government departments to offset the carbon impacts of their air travel by April 2006. When flights are essential, investments will be made in renewable energy and energy efficiency projects to compensate for carbon dioxide released from flights.
There will also be a strong community focus. A local action programme will launch in the autumn to help individuals get involved in what goes on where they live.
Extra information
The new taskforce on sustainable procurement will report to the DEFRA Secretary and the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on actions needed to establish the UK as a leader in Europe on sustainable procurement by 2009.
The taskforce will look at the direct impact of public sector procurement, and how public sector funds can be used to create demand for more sustainable products. The annual budget spent by Government is £125bn.
The independent Sustainable Development Commission, chaired by Jonathon Porritt, will act as watchdog on the Government’s sustainability performance.
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