The month in review – October 2025

This month, the Aldersgate Group has continued to make the case for ambitious climate and environmental measures that drive economic growth and reinforce energy security. We hosted several high-level events and continued our engagement with key stakeholders on important climate and environmental policy developments.

On Wednesday 29th October, the Aldersgate Group hosted an ‘In Conversation’ event with The Rt Hon. The Baroness May of Maidenhead and Rachel Kyte, the UK Special Representative for Climate. The discussion covered UK climate leadership since COP29, ambitions ahead of COP30, and how international action can support the UK’s clean energy and strategic climate goals.

Additionally, reflecting on the publication of the UK Carbon Budget and Growth Delivery Plan, Rachel Solomon Williams welcomed the comprehensive approach to decarbonising the UK economy, taking a joined up, cross-sector approach, and alignment with the government’s growth mission.

Aldersgate Group submitted a representation to the Autumn Budget 2025. Following a welcome Spending Review and recognising the challenging fiscal context, this submission is focused on one urgent priority area: the electrification of heavy industry and manufacturing. We recommended the government introduce a targeted electrification support scheme to futureproof UK industry against gas price shocks, unlock opportunities in growing low-carbon markets, and enhance the UK’s attractiveness for investment.

On Tuesday 28th October, the Treasury Committee published a report on its National Wealth Fund inquiry. The report cites written and oral evidence given to the Committee by Aldersgate Group.

On Wednesday 29th October, the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee published its first report as part of the Cost of Energy inquiry. The committee has made recommendations to the government on how to support consumers facing an energy cost crisis. The upcoming second report will reflect on matters which affect the retail energy market. Aldersgate Group provided written and oral evidence to this enquiry and is referenced in the report.

The new mood music for business action on climate

In this blog, Jack Kunkle surveys how senior executives view the old and new challenges of decarbonisation and greening their supply chains.

Why circular workplace fit-outs are gaining traction

In this blog, James Fotherby, Policy Manager, outlines how the government has bet big on Public Financial Institutions but requires further reform.