The first five members of the independent Committee on Climate Change have been announced by Environment Secretary Hilary Benn. Scientists Sir Brian Hoskins and Lord Robert May, technologist Professor Jim Skea and economists Dr Sam Fankhauser and Professor Michael Grubb will make up the new Committee, headed by the newly-appointed Chair designate Adair Turner.

The Committee, being established under the Climate Change Bill currently before Parliament, will provide independent, expert advice on how the UK can best meet its climate change goals.

Mr Benn said:

“The Committee will be a fundamental pillar of the way we tackle climate change from now until 2050.  The founding members of the Committee are leading experts in their fields, and they will make an vital contribution in our efforts to build a low carbon Britain.”

Lord Turner said:

“With a strong scientific and technical make up I am confident that this Committee will provide a high standard of evidence-based advice, founded on openness, transparency and engagement.

“This wide-ranging expertise and experience will prove invaluable. The Committee will play a crucial role in our efforts towards achieving a low-carbon economy. I am delighted to chair a Committee of such distinguished experts.”

The Committee will advise on the pathway to achieving the Bill’s target to reduce CO2 emissions by at least 60 per cent by 2050 by giving advice on the level of carbon budgets, on how much effort should be made in the UK and overseas and how domestic effort should be spread across the economy. It will also review the 2050 target to see whether it should be tightened up to 80 per cent and look at the implications of including international aviation and shipping emissions, which will now be a statutory review as announced earlier this week. 

Another key part of the Committee’s role will be to report annually to Parliament and the Devolved Administrations on the UK’s progress towards meetings its emissions reduction targets.

Initially, the Committee will consist of the Chair and 5 members. Further members will be appointed when the Committee becomes an independent statutory body, following Royal Assent of the Climate Change Bill. Appointments will be for a duration of five years.