Proper planning needed for transition to low-carbon economy

Greater public ownership and a commitment to hydrogen technology must be part of this plan

Commenting on the TUC’s Just Transition document setting out the route to a greener economy published today (Monday), UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“The TUC’s commitment is to be welcomed. Energy workers affected by the move to a low-carbon economy need a specific plan for their jobs, particularly in the gas industry.

“Greater public ownership and a commitment to hydrogen technology must be part of this plan. UNISON‘s recent Power To The People report outlined the benefits of nationalising the retail arms of the UK’s biggest energy companies.

“A massive energy efficiency programme is desperately needed to create homes that are cheaper to run, with councils, housing associations and energy companies working together.

“Public services are ready and willing but need the resources to be climate-change ready, reduce emissions and air pollution. We must also do what we can to expand public transport.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services – in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in both the public and private sectors.
– The TUC’s A Just Transition To A Greener, Fairer Economy sets out proposalsto meet the needs of working people in the transition to a low-carbon economy and is published on Monday 8 July.

Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes T: 0207 121 5255 M: 07834 864794E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Garfield Myrie T: 0207 121 5546 M: 07432 741565 E: g.myrie@unison.co.uk