Why? Because it will make going green cheaper
BOOSTING FACT
A “modest” package of green measures and a cut in VAT of just 5 percent, would give a 0.8 percent boost to GDP - about £21 billion.
Planet-friendly choices will then become a no-brainer and we’re on our way to a thriving new world.
At the moment there’s a bunch of tax contradictions, which, given the stakes we’re playing with, will have you scratching your bemused heads…
Electric cars pay the same 20% VAT as petrol and diesel vehicles
Solar panels can carry 20% VAT while domestic gas is 5%
Refurbishing or insulating your home has 20% VAT whereas building a new one is zero-rated
In other words, current policies are effectively favouring fossil fuels, subsidising the emitters. So the excellent Zero for Zero campaign is calling for a bold reform of the UK tax system, with incentives to reduce carbon across the economy, scraping VAT on low or zero carbon products and giving the huge potential of the Green Economy a rocket launch.
That’s a powerful lever in the fight against climate change and a boost for jobs and the economy all in one. Why wouldn’t we use it? Let’s demand the Government take action!
Ok, where do I sign?
Sign here…
The campaign is lead by Ecotricity CEO and green superstar Dale Vince, who has joined forces with the Daily Express to drive it. The country's leading environmental groups including the National Trust, RSPB, The Wildlife Trusts, WWF, Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth support it too. We’ll keep you updated on progress.
We…
Aimee: I originally trained as a tax adviser so I’ve seen how immediately impactful taxes can be in changing behaviour and outcomes. We have to move away from subsidising the things that are exacerbating the crisis and instead use that same money to support the new thriving world we’re trying to create.
Sonia: This is exciting. Money is the most powerful lever in the fight for our planet, let’s use it. Signed.
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