This POSTnote looks at the implications of UK options for reducing sulphur dioxide emissions, one of the main causes of ‘acid rain’. .
Acid Rain Agreements (281 KB , PDF)
International negotiations are underway to finalise agreement on reducing emissions of sulphur dioxidePressure is on the UK to reduce emissions by ~80% relative to 1980 levels; the Government has offered to cut emissions by 71% by 2005, and is considering whether the 80% target could be met by 2010.
Acid Rain Agreements (281 KB , PDF)
This event was held on Monday 24th May 2021 to launch the publication of the new POSTnote on ‘Effective Biodiversity Indicators’. The event was sponsored by the British Ecological Society and chaired by Barry Gardiner MP.
Products can be designed to maximise life cycle energy- and resource-efficiency, from raw material extraction to end-of-life treatment. This POSTnote outlines key aspects of, and consumer attitudes towards, sustainable products. It considers challenges associated with their design, production, regulation and supporting business models as part of a circular economy. ‘End-of-life’ treatment and value recovery, through reuse, recycling and other methods, are discussed.
Hydrogen could play a significant role in tackling climate change. Using it does not produce carbon dioxide, so it could replace fossil fuels in a range of applications. It may also provide valuable energy storage. However, almost all hydrogen production currently results in greenhouse gas emissions. Methods of producing it that do not emit greenhouse gases would need to increase for it to contribute to climate change mitigation. Governments and industry in the UK and abroad are aiming to increase low-carbon hydrogen supply. The UK Government will publish a Hydrogen Strategy in 2021.
