The UK’s greenhouse gas emissions fell by 3.6% in 2024, reaching their lowest level since 1872. A key driver was the historic decline in coal use, with demand dropping by 54% as the country shut down its last coal fired power station in Nottinghamshire. Additional factors included an increase in electric vehicles, cleaner electricity generation and above average temperatures reducing energy demand

A key driver was the historic decline in coal use, with demand dropping by 54% as the country shut down its last coal fired power station…

The steel industry also contributed to lower emissions as the closure of blast furnaces in Wales led to reduced coal consumption. Despite these gains, the UK must accelerate its emissions cuts to meet its 2035 and 2050 climate goals. With ongoing shifts toward low carbon technologies including electric arc furnaces for steel production, experts suggest a continued downward trend in emissions in the coming years