Mark Jenkinson MP has become a member of the Conservative Environment Network's (CEN) Parliamentary Caucus to champion action on decarbonisation and conservation in Westminster.
The Caucus works together to drive the green agenda in Westminster, underpinned by a set of principles that include action on climate change, enhancing the natural environment, preserving species and oceans, and tackling air pollution. Workington's MP will work with other Conservative backbench MPs to nudge Government policy in a greener direction.
Mark has long campaigned on environmental issues, including litter picks and village clean-ups, and continues to push for local habitat protection, work with threatened species and the reintroduction of lost species. As part of this Caucus he will now work with like-minded Conservatives to promote this agenda in Parliament and to ensure a green recovery from coronavirus.
Mark Jenkinson MP said: "We owe it to future generations to leave the environment in a better state than we found it. Everyone deserves cleaner air and water, sustainable and healthy food to eat, and access to green space. Climate change and the loss of many vital species and habitats threatens this both nationally and internationally. Conservatives are the original conservationists and recognise that we must act now to protect our communities and our one planet."
As part of his work with the Caucus, Mark supports action to meet the UK's ambitious net zero emissions target, which will end the UK's contribution to climate change by 2050. Commenting on this, Mark said, "I am proud that the UK was the first major economy to adopt a net zero target. We know that we need to go net zero in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, such as extreme floods. As we recover from coronavirus, we must build back better. That’s why I will be working with other MPs in the CEN Caucus to deliver a green recovery and bring more green jobs to Workington."
Sam Hall, Director of CEN, added: "We're delighted to have Mark join our Caucus to champion the environment in Westminster. He is a great Parliamentary campaigner and will be a powerful voice for Workington on environmental issues. We know that a green recovery from coronavirus could create millions of jobs across all regions of the UK whilst creating healthier, more beautiful communities. Making this vision a reality will require bold new policies, so it is brilliant to have Mark working with us to promote conservative solutions to environmental issues."
