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Starmer's Green Dilemma: Balancing Climate Action and Economic Pressures
26 Sep
Summary
- Trump dismisses climate change as a "con job" at UN assembly
- Starmer pledged "all out" push for low-carbon future, now faces economic challenges
- Decisions loom on Gatwick expansion, North Sea oil, home insulation funding
In September 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer finds himself grappling with a series of critical environmental decisions as his government confronts economic headwinds and rising skepticism about climate action.
Just last month, at the UN General Assembly, US President Donald Trump dismissed climate change as a "con job" and accused "stupid people" of making costly, inaccurate predictions. This comes in stark contrast to Starmer's pledge five months ago, when he told global leaders and business executives gathered in London that Britain would go "all out" for a low-carbon future, as it was "in the DNA of my government."
However, the prime minister is now facing bruising economic news and dismal opinion polls. Banks, businesses, and governments are taking Trump's stance as a cue to quietly or loudly back away from their environmental commitments. The right-wing party Reform UK is using net zero as a powerful attack line, which is gaining traction in the conservative press.
In the months ahead, Starmer will face a series of far-reaching policy decisions that will test his resolve on the climate agenda. These include the move to allow a second runway at Gatwick, a wider strategy for the North Sea, and an update on the £13.2 billion earmarked for home insulation. Wind power contracts and proposed regulations for building 1.5 million new homes to an acceptable standard are also on the agenda.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has vowed that the government remains focused on the net zero target, which he believes could be an engine of economic growth. However, some within Starmer's government are not convinced, arguing that net zero, environmental protection, and the need to generate economic growth are sometimes in conflict.
The coming months will be crucial as Starmer navigates these complex issues, balancing the demands of the fossil fuel lobby, the housebuilding industry, and the public's desire for climate action and lower energy bills. The outcome of these decisions will shape the UK's environmental and economic trajectory in the years to come.
