As of 2030, the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans is to be banned in Britain. Arab News reports that the ban will take effect five years earlier than had been previously planned. Meanwhile, the sale of hybrid cars and vans is to be banned from 2035.

The ban is part of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s “green revolution” to reach zero emissions by 2050. Johnson said, “Now is the time to plan for a green recovery with high-skilled jobs that give people the satisfaction of knowing they are helping to make the country cleaner, greener and more beautiful.”

Last year Britain set in law a net zero emission target by 2050. Arab News reports that this plan will completely change the way Britons travel, use energy and eat.

The plan, if implemented as envisaged, will mobilize $16 billion of government money. Further, the private sector is expected to contribute three times that amount. It is projected to create and support 250 000 highly skilled green jobs by 2030.

Johnson has also pledged almost $700 million for projects testing the use of hydrogen, including for heating and cooking. The British government also plans on developing large- and small-scale nuclear plants.

Arab News reports that the green plan has been broadly welcomed by industry, who view it as a springboard to launch huge opportunities for investment across the United Kingdom, as well the creation of green employment.

Umm Muhammed Umar