The UK has become the ‘first major economy’ to pass a law to end its contribution to global warming by 2050.

The new law, signed today by the energy and clean growth minister Chris Skidmore, will require the UK to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050.

This is an improvement on the previous target of at least 80% reduction from 1990 levels.

‘The UK kick-started the Industrial Revolution, which was responsible for economic growth across the globe but also for increasing emissions,’ said Mr Skidmore.

‘Today we’re leading the world yet again in becoming the first major economy to pass new laws to reduce emissions to net zero by 2050 while remaining committed to growing the economy – putting clean growth at the heart of our modern Industrial Strategy.

‘We’re pioneering the way for other countries to follow in our footsteps driving prosperity by seizing the economic opportunities of becoming a greener economy.’