Is reaching net zero a growth and prosperity plan? Economics, tools and actions for a rapidly changing world

Drawing on the latest evidence from a range of disciplines, this joint University of Cambridge and London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) policy report aims to assist decision-makers in HM Treasury (HMT) and beyond by offering constructive suggestions on how to help steer the UK economy through this transition, on to a path that boosts productivity, incomes, and employment, while maintaining healthy public finances and sustainable public debt. The report asks fundamental questions: is reaching net zero a growth and prosperity plan? If so, how much do we need to invest, can we afford it, and how do we pay for it? Are there less ambitious options which might be economically expeditious? To answer this, a conceptual understanding of the nature of the challenge and the drivers of innovation and structural change is needed. This further calls for a broadening of the analytical toolkit with profound conclusions for policy recommendations. This report was launched on 24 October 2024 in London with presentations by Dr John Llewellyn (Partner, Independent Economics), Anna Murphy (Low-carbon Innovation & Competitiveness consultant, The World Bank), Professor Emily Shuckburgh (Professor of Environmental Data Science, University of Cambridge and Director, Cambridge Zero), Lord Nicholas Stern (IG Patel Professor of Economics and Government, London School of Economics and Political Science and Chair, Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment (GRI LSE)).  Bob Ward (Policy and Communications Director, GRI LSE). Followed by panel discussion chaired by Lindsay Hooper (Interim CEO, Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership).