Labour's Climate Mandate: Seizing the moment for a sustainable built environment

UKGBC's Deputy CEO, Simon McWhirter, responds to the general election results.

Simon McWhirter, Deputy Chief Executive of the UK Green Building Council, said:

“We’ve seen a tectonic shift in UK politics, with the Labour party’s massive mandate setting the stage for a new era in national decision-making.

With the immense power they’ve gained, comes real responsibility. Responsibility to act on the evidence of time running out to address the twin climate and ecological crises; which Labour have recognised through their progressive proposals around energy and climate that sat central to their manifesto.

So, with our UKGBC members and partners, we’re now set to help with the rapid ramp-up of the climate-focused programmes we need to see across the country – to help make home upgrades easy, ensure new buildings are greener and that our communities and town centres are refreshed and renewed and better prepared for our rapidly changing climate.

This power has been hard won for Labour, and we need to ensure the moment is seized to exert that pro-climate power rapidly and effectively, as buildings can be absolutely pivotal in addressing our climate and cost of living woes”

Join our discussion on 25 July: New government – what to expect?

Learn more about our response to the new government:

Smith Mordak: Rounding a Corner Towards a Sustainable Future

Aligning the planning system with the Climate and Environment Acts will help navigate what and where to build