Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution

The Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution announced today what will be the main theme of its study of future energy prospects. The focus will be on the implications of considerably reducing, by the middle of the next century, use of fossil fuels as an energy source in the UK, or even phasing them out completely.

The Royal Commission is concerned both about the need to limit carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels, in order to avoid dangerous modifications to the world's climate, and about other environmental impacts of energy systems. It believes there are strong pressures for radical changes in the way energy is obtained and used. Its aim is to elucidate and assess what such changes entail.

Evidence is being invited on 23 specific issues. These cover alternative sources of energy, improvements in energy efficiency, the implications of climate change, social issues and international considerations. Evidence should be submitted by the end of November to the Commission Secretariat at Steel House, 11 Tothill Street, London SW1H 9RE.

The Royal Commission plans to publish its report on Energy and the Environment before the end of 1999. For the first time in such a study, information about progress will be available on the Energy section of the Royal Commission's web site at: http://www.rcep.org.uk/energy.html

Additional Information

The Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution is an independent standing body. Its terms of reference are to advise on matters, both national and international, concerning the pollution of the environment; the adequacy of research in this field; and the future possibilities of danger to the environment. The present Chairman, Sir Tom Blundell FRS, succeeded Sir John Houghton CBE FRS at the beginning of July. Members of the Commission are appointed by Her Majesty The Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister and serve part time.

The aim of the Royal Commission's study of Energy and the Environment, announced in August 1997, is to identify the actions required in the years immediately ahead in order to develop a sustainable strategy for energy provision and use. The decision announced today marks the end of the first phase of the study. This has involved reviewing previous analyses and reports brought to the Commission's attention as a result of the original announcement, and commissioning some studies from consultants.

In studying energy, the Royal Commission will draw where necessary on the conclusions of its two reports on Transport and the Environment, published in 1994 and 1997.

The Royal Commission's 21st report, Setting Environmental Standards, is intended to provide a more robust basis for environmental policies, and will be published next month.

Contact:

The contacts for enquiries about this announcement are:

Ms Cathy Garretty (tel. 0171 273 6639)
Mrs Enid M Barron (tel. 0171 273 6649)
E-mail  rcep@dial.pipex.com

They can also provide further information and guidance about the submission of evidence to the Royal Commission.

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