Zero Hour is campaigning to get the Climate and Nature Bill passed into law. The proposed law addresses climate change, global warming, and the nature crisis in line with the most up-to-date science. The CAN Bill is the only proposed legislation before the UK Parliament that ensures a comprehensive and joined-up approach to the emergency. The bill was first introduced by Caroline Lucas in 2020 and reintroduced by Alex Sobel this year, with a first reading on 15 May 24. It is described as:
A Bill to require the United Kingdom to achieve climate and nature targets; to give the Secretary of State a duty to implement a strategy to achieve those targets; to establish a Climate and Nature Assembly to advise the Secretary of State in creating that strategy; to give duties to the Committee on Climate Change and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee regarding the strategy and targets; and for connected purposes.
Zero Hour states that if passed the CAN Bill would ensure that the UK:
Creates a joined-up plan—the crises in climate and nature are deeply intertwined, requiring a plan that considers both together
Cuts emissions in line with 1.5°C—ensuring UK emissions are reduced rapidly, for the last chance of limiting warming to 1.5°C.
Not only halts, but also reverses the decline in nature—setting nature measurably on the path to recovery by 2030.
Takes responsibility for our overseas footprint—both emissions and ecological.
Prioritises nature in decision-making, and ends fossil fuel production and imports as rapidly as possible.
Ensures no-one is left behind—through fairness provisions.
Involves the public—giving people a say in finding a fair way forward through a Climate & Nature Assembly, an essential tool for bringing the public along with the unprecedented pace of change required.
CCL UK endorses this commitment specifically because of the key principles to:
- Take responsibility for our overseas footprint—both emissions and ecological.
- Ensure no-one is left behind—through fairness provisions.
We urge our supporters to contact their MPs to ensure the bill passes its second reading. The second reading will be held on the 24th January 2025. If your MP is already supporting the bill please ask that they are in London for that Friday to attend the second reading. The website offers a step by step guide to sending an email to your MP, tailored to whether your MP already supports the bill or not.