In order to build a low carbon economy and meet carbon budgets, the UK will need  access to new technologies. This requires public sector investment in all stages of the innovation process from Research, through Development and Demonstration to Deployment (RDD&D).

In October 2009, Professor Sir John Beddington, the Government’s Chief Scientific Advisor, asked the Committee to carry out a review of low carbon innovation in the UK. This report consider the effectiveness of current policy measures and institutional arrangements to deliver the technologies required to meet the UK’s 2050 emissions target.  

Building a low-carbon economy – the UK’s innovation challenge – 19 July 2010

• Full report (1228k.pdf)
• Supporting analysis and review evidence from the Committee (2MB.pdf)
• LSE Patent Analysis report, April 2010 - supporting analysis (2MB.pdf)

• Press release (303k.pdf)
• Presentation Professor Julia King (5MB.ppt)

Reaction to the report:

Tom Delay, Chief Executive of the Carbon Trust, said:

“This is an important report that has come at an important time.  We welcome the recognition of the need for continued and expanded funding for wise, focused and output-driven low carbon innovation.  Good innovation that leverages private sector investment, and focuses on UK benefit is a must.  It will deliver significant economic opportunity for the UK as well as helping us meet our short and long term carbon targets.”

Sustainability

Limited numbers of the CCC's full report were printed. The report was printed using waterless printing, 100% renewable energy and vegetable oil based inks on paper with 100% recycled content, FSC, EMAS and ISO 14001 certified.