Reform UK’s Richard Tice dismissed the scientific consensus on human-caused climate change as “garbage,” arguing that climate changes predate human impact. Contradicting extensive scientific findings from the IPCC and others, he faced backlash from experts asserting that current warming is unprecedented. His proposals include taxing renewables and scrapping net-zero goals, appealing to a fraction of voters who still support climate action.
Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, publicly rejected the scientific consensus regarding human contributions to climate change, referring to it as “garbage.” In an interview with Sky News correspondent Ali Fortescue, he argued that historical climate changes predate human CO2 emissions, stating, “There’s no evidence that man-made CO2 is going to change climate change.”
Despite being presented with a 2021 report from the IPCC signed by 200 international scientists, which asserts that human activities are predominantly responsible for recent climate trends, Mr. Tice remained unyielding. This report emphasizes that human influence has significantly altered the atmosphere, ocean, and land. Referring to the climate’s long history, he emphasized that it had changed for millions of years before the industrial era.
Scientific authorities stress that the current rate of climate change is alarming and unprecedented, occurring faster than any historical fluctuations recorded over the last 10,000 years. NASA and other research bodies concur that while natural phenomena can contribute to climate variations, the current warming trend is disproportionate and rapid compared to past events.
Contrary opinions were voiced by respected figures within the scientific community. Professor Sheila Rowan noted the substantial evidence linking human activities to climate alteration, while Dr. Andrew Jarvis criticized Mr. Tice’s claims as misguided. An extensive review of peer-reviewed literature indicates that over 99% of climate scientists endorse the view that human actions are a principal cause of climate change.
Bob Ward, from the LSE Grantham Research Institute, referred to Mr. Tice’s assertions as “pure misinformation,” pointing out the absence of credible scientific support for his claims. Professor Ed Hawkins highlighted that natural climate variations occur slowly over millennia, whereas current warming has unfolded in decades, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate change, which has increased by 1.3°C since the pre-industrial era.
In addition to his climate change stance, Mr. Tice proposed tax changes for the renewable energy sector and suggested abolishing the UK’s net-zero target. He attributed rising energy costs and deindustrialization in Britain to current climate policies. Although Reform UK holds only five seats in Parliament, they recently topped a voter poll by a narrow margin.
Research indicates that approximately two-thirds of Reform UK voters support government action on climate, despite generally being less enthusiastic about climate policies compared to other voter groups. Dr. George Adamson condemned Mr. Tice’s claims as preposterous, asserting that climate scientists are well aware of ongoing developments in climate science.
In summary, Richard Tice’s dismissal of human-influenced climate change has sparked significant criticism and is contradicted by overwhelming scientific evidence. Notable scientists and reports emphasize the urgency of addressing climate change and highlight the consensus on human-induced factors contributing to current climatic shifts. Despite some voter support for Reform UK’s policies, the majority recognize the importance of government action on climate issues.
Original Source: www.star.radio
