Busting the Myths of Anti–Net Zero Populism
Opposition to net zero has become a recurring theme and increasing narrative in UK politics, America, and beyond. Campaigners argue that the transition to a low-carbon economy is costly. But most of these claims rely on misinformation rather than facts. Independent institutions and experts provide a very different picture.
Myth 1: Net zero will cripple the economy
The IEA estimates that reaching net zero globally by 2050 requires around $4 trillion annually in clean energy investment by 2030. This is a large sum, but will generate significant economic returns through job creation, energy security, and avoided climate damages. Without such investment the Swiss Re Institute predicts that unmitigated climate change could wipe up to 18% off global GDP by 2050. So, net zero is not a drag on growth, it is an insurance policy against economic collapse.
Myth 2: Net zero will not make us more secure
Instead of eroding national sovereignty, the transition helps strengthens it, where dependence on imported fuels exposes countries to international shocks, as seen during the 2022 European energy crisis. The onset of the war with Ukraine demonstrated the impact this can have, with heavy European reliance on Russian gas exposing vulnerabilities. Energy prices have remained high since the invasion, leaving typical small businesses paying over £5,000 more a year in bills than prior to the crisis. This underscores the cost of being reliant on global gas.
We see that countries investing in renewables and electrification experienced less economic disruption than those tied to global gas markets and improved energy security. Energy independence through domestic renewables enhances security rather than diminishes it.
Myth 3: Net zero destroys traditional industries and jobs
Labour market transitions can and must be managed, where they can present great opportunities. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that the green transition could create a net gain of 18 million jobs globally by 2030, provided that governments invest in reskilling and regional transition support. It is vital that as many of these jobs are based in the UK as possible, to establish the UK as a global leader.
The Ruhr region in Germany provides a case study here, where coal employment declined but public investment in education, infrastructure, and clean technology has eased the transition.
Myth 4: Climate change science is hyperbolic
This myth is perhaps the most dangerous of all. The rejectionism surrounding scientific estimations and the environmental damage incurring daily across the planet are not compatible. Disinformation campaigns in the UK have dangerously framed climate change as an ‘exaggerated threat’, which while deteriorating eco-system services, desertification, and rising sea levels are not immediately evident in the UK, they are a harsh reality for millions.
Between 2030 and 2050, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250,000 additional deaths per year. This can be reduced through our collective efforts to decarbonise.
Anti–net zero populism thrives on fear and misinformation. But the weight of evidence from economic and scientific institutions shows that reaching net zero is economically viable, socially manageable, and strategically beneficial. The real threat to prosperity and security is delay and denial.
Written by Harry Bradley, Policy and Advocacy Officer for Low Carbon Transport