While an 81% cut aligns with existing domestic carbon budgets aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, activists argue that this should be the minimum target. They emphasize the need for more ambitious commitments to showcase global leadership and drive innovation in the low-carbon economy. Mike Childs from Friends of the Earth stated that the 81% cut is inadequate given the escalating climate crisis.

Catherine Pettengell of Climate Action Network UK echoed this sentiment, asserting that the target should be a starting point rather than a limit. Meeting these targets presents challenges, particularly as the UK is not on track to meet the existing goal of a 68% reduction by 2030, which was set before the Cop26 climate summit in 2021.

Campaigners stress that achieving the 2035 target requires clear government action, including fulfilling promises to end new oil and gas licenses, increase renewable energy, and enhance energy efficiency. The question of how to include international aviation and shipping emissions in the UK's nationally determined contribution (NDC) remains contentious, with some advocating for their inclusion to ensure accountability.

As new NDCs are set to be submitted by February, Keir Starmer has indicated that the UK's commitments will be announced early at the Cop29 UN climate summit in Azerbaijan, scheduled for November 11. However, the outcomes of the upcoming US presidential election could significantly influence global climate negotiations.

The UK has successfully met its first three five-year carbon budgets under the Climate Change Act of 2008, but future budgets are expected to be more challenging. The current carbon budget runs until 2027, with assessments due in 2029. The CCC will set the seventh carbon budget next year.

A spokesperson from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero affirmed the UK's commitment to climate leadership, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to clean energy to protect future generations.