UK Carbon Reduction Target - Countdown Timetable

The Government has set very specific UK carbon reduction targets that the industry has to work towards. These carbon reduction commitments and energy efficiency schemes affect sectors of the industry differently and they also differ slightly according to the strategic approach that each of the devolved nations have developed to tackle the low carbon agenda.

Cut the Carbon Countdown calendar

In Scotland, timelines are governed by a number of action plans developed in 2009 including the Climate Change (Scotland) Act, the Renewable Heat Action Plan, the Energy Efficiency Action Plan, Scotland's Zero Waste Plan and the Renewables Action Plan.

The Welsh Assembly Government has committed to a rapid reduction in carbon emissions from the built environment and construction processes. This will be delivered through devolved planning legislation and building regulations, and underpinned by the Green Jobs Strategy, Climate Change Strategy and Green Building Charter. The Welsh Assembly is taking proactive steps to both kick-start and sustainably support the green building market, for example through the ‘Arbed’ programme of energy efficiency improvements to existing stock.

The principal targets that have been set until 2016 are listed above. Targets right up until 2025 have been set already by the government which shows that we are at the start of the changes. One thing that is clear is that anyone who leaves gaining the right skills until near the deadlines will be at the back of the queue for opportunities.

The more you know about each deadline, the more you'll understand about your responsibilities and about the possibilities for business.