Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Manchester and now Britain's next Prime Minister, faces a critical juncture in his leadership as he grapples with the country's pressing climate crisis. The question on everyone's mind is: How green is Andy Burnham? The answer lies in his ability to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, a delicate tightrope walk that could define his premiership.
A Green Record in Manchester
Burnham's tenure in Manchester has showcased a clear understanding of the climate challenge. He set a bold local target of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2038, a significant step towards a greener future. His administration expanded and began electrifying bus services, a move that reduces emissions and improves public transportation. Additionally, he initiated programs for home insulation, a measure that not only benefits the environment but also improves the well-being of Manchester's residents.
However, Burnham's green credentials are not without controversy. He has been accused of watering down his environmental ambitions when faced with opposition. In 2022, he paused the implementation of a clean air zone in Manchester, a decision that cost the city an estimated £100 million. This pause came in the face of public backlash, highlighting the challenges of balancing environmental policies with immediate public concerns.
The Climate Crisis Looms Large
The climate crisis is not a distant threat but an urgent reality for Britain. The country has experienced three heatwaves so far this year, resulting in thousands of deaths, damaged harvests, and disrupted education. The economic toll is staggering, with businesses suffering £2.4 billion in lost productivity due to the heatwaves. Another poor harvest would be the fourth since 2020, leading to higher food prices and further strain on farmers and consumers.
The situation is exacerbated by the potential arrival of a fossil fuel-driven "super El Niño" weather system, which could cause food prices to soar globally. This crisis underscores the urgency of Burnham's climate policies and the need for a holistic approach to address both economic and environmental challenges.
Balancing Growth and Sustainability
One of Burnham's key decisions will be the future of the Jackdaw gasfield, a potential drilling site in UK waters. The consultation on this project, which ends on August 8, has sparked speculation about Burnham's stance. Some suggest that he might green-light Jackdaw to appease right-wingers and unions, potentially undermining his green credentials.
However, experts argue that the appointment of Ed Miliband, a champion of climate action, to a position of power would be a greater win for the climate than the fate of Jackdaw. The focus should be on the broader agenda, where reindustrialization and public control of utilities can drive economic growth while supporting the environment.
Reindustrialization and Green Growth
Burnham's philosophy of "Manchesterism" emphasizes reindustrialization and local solutions to social and economic problems. This approach can be aligned with green growth, as the low-carbon economy is already worth £100 billion annually and supports over 1 million jobs with higher-than-average pay. The CBI data highlights the potential for a thriving green sector to boost the UK economy.
Market Intervention and Energy Reform
To address the energy crisis effectively, Burnham must adopt a robustly interventionist approach in the market. Ed Matthew, the UK director of the E3G thinktank, argues that Burnham should confront the reality that North Sea drilling will not lower energy bills. By reforming the energy market and removing levies on electricity bills, Burnham can deliver real savings for households and businesses, turbo-boosting the UK economy.
In conclusion, Andy Burnham's green credentials are a work in progress. His leadership will be defined by his ability to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. The decisions he makes regarding the Jackdaw gasfield and other climate policies will shape his legacy, and the country's future, in the face of a critical climate crisis.
