Prime Minister Keir Starmer has defended the UK's green economy plans ahead of the Cop30 climate conference in Brazil, insisting that shifting to a low-carbon economy will cut bills, boost growth, and bring national renewal. Speaking before flying to Belém, Starmer said: 'Britain isn't waiting to act – we're leading the way, as we promised. Clean energy doesn't just mean energy security, so Putin can't put his boot on our throat: it means lower bills for working families in every part of the UK.'
Starmer's visit comes amid a row over funding for tropical forest preservation. The UK has opted out of Brazil's flagship Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF), which aims to raise $125bn to protect forests. The government views the fund as early-stage and has not ruled out future contributions. However, the decision may create a frosty reception from Brazilian hosts and embarrass Prince William, who is in Brazil for the Earthshot prize, for which the TFFF is nominated.
Despite critics calling for a slowdown, Starmer emphasised that climate action boosts the economy. 'Critics who say climate action cannot boost the economy are completely wrong,' he said. 'This government has already brought in £50bn of investment in clean energy since the election, with more to come – delivering jobs and opportunities now, and for generations to come.'
The UK's emissions-cutting pledge is stronger than many countries, including China and the EU, which recently agreed on a target of 66.25% to 72.5% cuts by 2035. Starmer is expected to announce new low-carbon investments in Brazil, aiming to attract business and reinforce his message that a greener economy drives growth.
