The Manx public is being invited to help shape the government’s climate change plan for the next five years.

A consultation has been launched, with feedback invited on energy, housing, fossil fuels, transport and business.

Legislation due to come into force later this year requires a statutory five-year plan to be in operation at all times, with the aim of ensuring the island achieves net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Policy and Reform Minister Ray Harmer said: ’The dual climate emergencies are the biggest threats that the human race is facing today.

’As a responsible nation the Isle of Man has, like many countries, committed to reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. This is vital in order to protect our environment and our community, and to safeguard our continued prosperity.’

Electricity generation accounts for approximately 33% of all greenhouse gas emissions in the Isle of Man, most of it from fossil fuels.

Demand for electricity is predicted to grow, as more people move to using electricity to heat homes and to fuel cars, making electricity generation a crucial area of focus for the Island to reach net zero.

The government has come up with several scenarios to get the island to 75% renewable electricity by 2035 and net zero by 2050.

These include new building regulations to improve the energy efficiency of housing. A ban on future hydrocarbon exploration and extraction licences in the Isle of Man and its territorial waters is being considered.

Mr Harmer said making the right choices brings wider benefits to the community through cleaner air and healthier lifestyles.

He added: ’Our plan is ambitious but at its heart are the principles of fairness and inclusivity. One of the most crucial areas to address is our future energy strategy, as it impacts on other emission reduction initiatives.

’This includes transport and property heating, as well as our economy and quality of life. It is essential that we hear from the public, businesses and other organisations on this vital part of our emissions reduction journey.’

The draft plan also highlights the importance of protecting the Island’s ecosystems and biodiversity, which will help the Isle of Man to build its resilience against climate change and also boost the Island’s natural stores of carbon.

Consultation events are being planned for throughout August, with details listed on netzero.im while printed copies of the plan and consultation questions are also available in public libraries across the island.