The UK has officially submitted its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2035, setting an ambitious goal to reduce all greenhouse gas emissions by at least 81% compared to 1990 levels. This commitment, submitted on 30 January 2025, aligns with scientific recommendations and international climate obligations.
The target follows advice from the Climate Change Committee (CCC), which deemed it a credible and Paris-aligned contribution towards limiting global warming to 1.5°C. The UK government asserts that this NDC represents an economy-wide approach, covering all greenhouse gases, sectors, and emissions categories, including international aviation and shipping—a crucial step in fully accounting for the nation’s carbon footprint.
The UK’s latest pledge also aligns with its sixth Carbon Budget (CB6), which is legally binding under domestic legislation. The submission is informed by the outcomes of the COP28 Global Stocktake, a review process assessing global climate progress, reinforcing the need for more ambitious action.
What Is a Nationally Determined Contribution?
Under the Paris Agreement, countries must submit updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) every five years to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These commitments outline each nation’s strategy for reducing emissions and adapting to climate change.
The next round of NDCs, covering 2031 to 2035, is due by 10 February 2025, ahead of COP30 in Brazil. By submitting its target early, the UK aims to set a strong precedent for other nations to follow.
How does this compare to previous UK targets?
The UK’s previous 2030 NDC committed to cutting emissions by at least 68% from 1990 levels. The new 2035 target of 81% builds on this ambition, representing a significant acceleration in emissions reductions.
This enhanced pledge reflects increasing urgency in tackling climate change and aligns with global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. However, the challenge now lies in implementation—ensuring that policies, investment, and regulatory frameworks match the ambition of these targets.
With the UK’s latest commitment now submitted, attention will turn to domestic policy action and whether the government can deliver on its climate promises ahead of COP30.
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