The Rest Is Politics: Leading 168. A Climate Special: Populism, Security, and Leadership
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Dec 29, 2025 
In a compelling climate special, Professor Dieter Helm offers a critical view on the UK's decarbonization efforts, urging a focus on consumption emissions and realistic energy policies. Ed Miliband passionately defends the political case for net zero, emphasizing its links to security and job creation. Emma Pinchbeck shares her insights on corporate decarbonization, parenting, and the importance of equitable international action. Together, they explore the complex challenges and opportunities in achieving a sustainable future.
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Outsourced Emissions Mask Real Progress
- Dieter Helm argues most current emissions reductions are misleading because rich countries have outsourced pollution via imports.
- He warns electricity gains from wind and solar won't alone solve global emissions as developing countries' fossil use rises.
Prioritise National Strengths
- Dieter Helm says Britain should focus scarce public funds on where it has unique leverage like offshore wind and CCS.
- He urges exporting those technologies and prioritising R&D rather than spreading money thinly across everything.
Carbon Border Adjustments As Practical Leverage
- Helm argues a carbon border adjustment is the practical way to internalise embedded emissions from imports.
- He predicts other countries will adopt domestic carbon pricing to avoid paying the tax at ports.