Sir Tony Blair has urged a comprehensive reassessment of net zero initiatives, contending that current strategies focusing on restricting energy use and curbing fossil fuel output are “destined to fail”.
In a newly published report, the former Labour Prime Minister cautions that the public “feels they are being asked to shoulder financial burdens and alter their lifestyles, despite their awareness that the contribution to global emissions is minimal”.
While Blair does not advocate for Labour to withdraw from its commitment to decarbonising the UK, he insists that a re-evaluation is necessary across all governments, as current approaches are falling short.
Conservatives—joined by Reform UK in their opposition to achieving net zero emissions by 2050—called on Labour to abandon what they describe as an “overzealous” pursuit of climate targets. Nevertheless, Downing Street has reaffirmed its commitment to existing policy.
According to the report The Climate Paradox: Why We Need to Reset Action on Climate Change, produced by the Tony Blair Institute, leading bodies such as COP and the UN have made insufficient headway in tackling climate change.
The publication further notes that public support for climate initiatives has dwindled, largely because promised green employment and economic growth have yet to be realised, exacerbated by global uncertainty and the lingering effects of the pandemic.
In the foreword, Sir Tony writes: “Although most accept the reality of climate change and humanity’s role in it, the electorate are distancing themselves from the political debate, doubting the underlying soundness of proposed measures.”
He maintains that “any approach relying on either a rapid ‘phase out’ of fossil fuels or limiting energy consumption is likely to fail”.
Blair additionally cautions against an “alarmist” narrative in climate discussions, describing the debate as being “mired in irrationality”.
Among its recommendations, the report advocates for the swift implementation of carbon capture and storage, expanded use of artificial intelligence to optimise energy networks, and additional investment in small modular nuclear reactors.
It also calls for enhanced focus on adaptive climate measures—including improved flood defences—and for renewed efforts to engage countries such as China and India in emission reductions.
Speaking with BBC Radio 4’s The World Tonight, the report’s lead author rejected suggestions that the foundation was abandoning net zero goals, describing the document as advancing “greater climate ambition”.
Lindy Fursman, Director of Climate and Energy Policy at the Tony Blair Institute, clarified: “We are absolutely not moving away from net zero ambitions. The report makes clear the importance of maintaining these targets for business confidence.”
Fursman added that while some economies are performing well, further action is needed globally, given the ongoing rise in worldwide emissions.
Downing Street stood by its existing approach to net zero, dismissing Blair’s concerns over public reluctance to make sacrifices for climate progress.
“We are committed to achieving net zero in a way that minimally disrupts everyday lives, steering clear of dictating individual choices,” stated the Prime Minister’s official spokesperson.
“Net zero represents a significant economic opportunity for the UK, with potential to revitalise industry, foster well-paid jobs for the future, and reduce energy costs over the long term.”
Government officials point to £43bn in private sector investment since last July and claim climate policies now support approximately 600,000 jobs across the country.
Labour has also refuted suggestions that Sir Keir Starmer is distancing himself from net zero, referencing a recent speech in which Starmer described the green energy transition as “embedded in my government’s DNA.”
Responding in the Commons to Blair’s comments, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband expressed support for aspects of the report, especially those concerning carbon capture, storage, and artificial intelligence—areas he says the government is actively pursuing.
Political opponents, however, were quick to highlight Blair’s remarks.
On social media, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said: “Even Tony Blair now acknowledges the drive toward net zero has become ‘irrational’ and ‘hysterical’. We are winning the debate!”
Andrew Bowie, Conservative acting shadow energy secretary, called for a rapid course correction.
“It appears even Tony Blair now realises that Labour’s and Starmer’s rush toward net zero by 2050 is unrealistic and unsustainable,” Bowie remarked.
Green Party co-leader Adrian Ramsay countered: “Blair’s stance is misguided, both ethically and practically. The public recognises the importance of bold climate action and expects leaders to deliver on these commitments.”
Blair’s commentary has also drawn criticism from environmental groups aligned with Labour.
One activist told the BBC: “This is an unusually public and ill-timed intervention, more typical of someone lacking access.
“The Labour government is already advancing many proposals outlined in the report, knowing these are popular among key electoral groups.
“However, adopting anti-net zero language favoured by Tory figures and Reform is misaligned with public sentiment and risks undermining Labour.”
A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats said: “There is no doubt the previous Conservative administration set progress back by neglecting investment in affordable, clean energy and insulation.
“Now, urgent action is needed to cut bills and emissions, break free from reliance on Putin’s gas, and restore the UK’s global leadership in clean technology and the jobs it creates.”
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