Press Story

Responding to the latest Climate Change Committee (CCC) report Sam Alvis, associate director at IPPR, said:

“Extreme weather is a growing political problem in the UK. As we’ve seen in Valencia, Los Angeles and elsewhere, when increasingly severe and frequent climate impacts strike, populists are quick to exploit public anger over a lack of preparation, using it to advance their own agenda and weaken support for climate action more broadly.

“Climate impacts aren’t just abstract figures in an economic forecast, they are harming people here today and making it harder for governments to improve lives across the country. Extreme heat is affecting children’s exam performance, forcing NHS surgeries to be cancelled, and making it harder for farmers to grow food. It is no surprise that frustration is growing.

“But today’s report from the Climate Change Committee shows there are practical, achievable steps government can take now to protect people and reduce the space for populists to exploit these crises. Pairing long-term emissions cuts — such as rolling out solar panels on schools — with immediate adaptation measures — like air conditioning in classrooms — will both protect communities and strengthen public confidence in climate action.”

ENDS

Sam Alvis is available for interview

CONTACT

Liam Evans, head of news and media: 07419 365 334 l.evans@ippr.org

NOTES TO EDITORS

IPPR’s recent report, Adapt or Die, made the case that failing to protect people from worsening extreme weather will erode trust in government and fuel support for populists: https://www.ippr.org/media-office/failure-to-prepare-for-extreme-weather-risks-losing-a-flood-of-public-support-warns-ippr
IPPR is the UK’s most influential think tank, with alumni in Downing Street, the cabinet and parliament. We are the ideas factory behind many of the current government’s flagship policies, including changes to fiscal rules, the creation of a National Wealth Fund, GB Energy, devolution, and reforms to the NHS. IPPR is an independent charity which has seconded staff to government departments including DHSC and DESNZ to support ministers on crucial policies such as the 10-year health plan and the industrial strategy: www.ippr.org