Policy Exchange

About Environment & Energy

Scientific evidence shows the natural environment is under considerable pressure from human development. This poses risks to both the variety of nature and human prosperity.  

Environmental challenges need to be tackled while minimising adverse impacts on living standards. The social and economic needs of the present should be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

A pluralist approach usually provides the best way to achieve outcomes for society. Well-designed, regulated markets – with competing decision-makers given the freedom to innovate, respond to new information and fail – have been far more successful in achieving benefits for society than private or government monopoly decision-making.

Tackling environmental problems can strengthen local communities. Civil society has a rich history of protecting and improving the natural environment. This sense of stewardship should be harnessed to both tackle environmental problems and strengthen community ties.