Environmental analysis news: Carbon Reduction Commitment launched by government

The government's Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) has officially been launched today.

It is hoped the initiative will play a key role in helping to cut UK emissions by 34 per cent compared to 1990 levels by 2020.

Commenting on the launch, secretary for energy and climate change Ed Miliband said: "From today, the rewards for businesses and householders who act to cut their carbon emissions really start to pay off. It's no longer simply about doing the right thing for the environment, it's now a sure-fire financial investment."

He added that the UK is leading the way in the battle against climate change and said businesses and households can help the environment while saving money at the same time.

The government earlier this week launched Accelerating the Uptake of Anaerobic Digestion in England: An Implementation Plan, which sets out the ways in which food waste can be used to generate energy.

Written by Lauren Steadman