I am keenly aware that this subject elicits very strong views and I share the concerns that have given rise to them.
As you will likely know, the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has concluded that the world is warming faster than anticipated, the effect of which are being seen in every single region of our planet. Urgent action is undoubtedly needed to limit global warming and put nature on a path to recovery.
I am encouraged that the Government is already taking decisive action to this end, being the first G7 country to legislate to achieve net zero by 2050 and the fastest decarbonising G20 country. However, we know that the UK’s efforts will not be sufficient alone.
This is why the Government has been calling for global ambition and action to reduce emissions across all sectors, including in agriculture, forestry and other land use, which is collectively responsible for roughly 23% of global emissions.
Recognising the need to reform the way we grow and consume food to in order to tackle climate change, the UK seized the opportunities of our G7 and COP26 Presidencies to drive international action and commitment to this end.
For instance, in May 2023, G7 leaders reaffirmed their commitment to accelerate an inclusive global transition to sustainable and climate resilient agriculture. At COP26, over 140 world leaders joined the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forests and Land Use (GLD). This committed them to “halt and reverse forest loss and land degradation by 2030 while delivering sustainable development and promoting an inclusive rural transformation” and was backed by a financial package of $19.2 billion.
Nevertheless, demand for food is increasing globally and further action on land use and environmental degradation is urgently needed. To this end, the Prime Minister has announced £65 million for the Nature, People and Climate Programme at COP27, which supports indigenous and local forest communities.
This funding will drive forward agricultural innovations and measures to boost sustainable livelihoods, as well as support work to conserve and restore millions of hectares of forest.
It is for the reasons outlined here that I do not believe it necessary to sign the Plant Based Treaty at this time. While I acknowledge this may be disappointing for some of my constituents, I hope I have reassured you that the Government does recognise the need to accelerate the shift towards sustainable food systems and considerable work is ongoing to this end.
For my thoughts on Haywards Heath Town Council endorsing the Plant Based Treaty, please do follow the link below:
Mims Davies MP statement on Haywards Heath Town Council joining the Plant Based Treaty | Mims Davies