The Reader: Green Deal will help rebuild and protect planet

AP
14 May 2020
WEST END FINAL

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It hardly needs saying, but it’s right that the country is putting its attention into tackling Covid-19, evidenced by the unparalleled efforts of those on the front line.

But there is a longer-term risk: losing sight of the climate crisis and our need to protect our planet. As we rebuild, our revival plans must be built on sustainable progress — because investing in more sustainable infrastructure brings economic recovery, which translates directly into jobs and skills, as well as cleaner air and better health.

We need an ambitious climate commitment as a core element of an economic and industrial strategy, a new “Green Deal” that helps us recover and meets our duty to protect and rebuild our planet.
Michael Lewis, Chief Executive, E.ON UK

Editor's reply

Dear Michael

We’re all enjoying unusually crystal-clear skies and the return of wildlife. But analysts say there has only been a 5.5 per cent drop in carbon dioxide emissions during lockdown. That is still significant but it’s also an insight into where emissions come from. We’re not flying, but we are also at home using more gas and electricity. We have work to do to protect our planet and keep the skies smog-free.
Susannah Butter, Comment Editor

Don’t forget the cancer patients

With reports suggesting a 76 per cent drop in urgent referrals of suspected cancer, there is a risk we create a time-bomb of future cases. By going undiagnosed, people aren’t being given the best chance of beating cancer. Early diagnosis is also vital to the longer-term financial health of the NHS. Allowing cancers to progress will require more extensive and expensive treatments.

Anyone with concerns should still call their GP or private specialist. There is a terrible cost to deprioritising cancer.
James McArthur, GenesisCare

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