Greenhouse gas emission policies in the UK and Germany: Influences and responses

Abstract:

Climate change is considered to be one of the greatest environmental threats. In response to this threat, developed countries agreed in Kyoto to legally binding targets, which will reduce their atmospheric emissions. In April 1999 Germany introduced an environmental tax. At the same time the UK announced the introduction of a levy on energy consumption, from April 2001. This paper investigates the proposals from both governments and the influences upon them of a variety of institutions (NGOs, industry and business organisations). The similarities and differences between the consultation experiences, and the resulting policies, will be discussed for the two countries. Lessons are drawn applicable to the wider context of EU environmental legislation.