What is green politics?
Green politics is a political ideology centred on protecting the environment, tackling climate change and living within the planet's limits. It usually also stresses social justice, grassroots democracy and peace. In the UK it is represented mainly by the Green Party of England and Wales and the Scottish Greens.
Green politics grew from the environmental movement of the 1970s. Its core belief is that endless economic growth on a finite planet is not sustainable. Greens argue that climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution are the defining challenges of our time and need radical action. Many greens also argue for local decision-making, community energy schemes and a shift from measuring success purely by economic growth.
Green parties typically support rapid moves to renewable energy, public transport, home insulation and protecting wildlife. Many also back a wealth tax, public ownership of utilities, proportional representation and a universal basic income. They tend to oppose nuclear weapons and new fossil fuel projects. They often argue that environmental harm falls hardest on poorer communities and future generations.
The Green Party of England and Wales won four seats at the 2024 general election, its best result. The Scottish Greens won 15 seats in the Scottish Parliament in May 2026. Supporters say green policies create jobs and protect future generations. Critics argue some policies would raise costs for households and slow growth. Green parties also do well in many local elections.
Where you've seen it
Germany's Greens in coalition governments, the Nordic countries' climate policies, and the UK's 2008 Climate Change Act, which set legally binding targets.
In the UK today
Seen in the legal target of net zero by 2050, arguments over energy bills, North Sea oil and gas, sewage in rivers, and in the Green Party and green wings of other parties.
Much of the left shares green goals and sees climate action as linked to fairness and public investment.
Much of the right supports conservation but argues green targets should not raise bills or harm jobs, favouring market-led solutions.
Britain is split. Now you decide.
Use Population Decides' party match to see how green you are, then chase net zero in the Budget without losing the voters.
Play Population Decides freeCommon questions
How many MPs does the Green Party have?
The Green Party of England and Wales won four seats at the 2024 general election.
Is green politics left wing?
Most green parties sit on the left, though environmental concern is shared across the spectrum.
What is the difference between the Greens and the Scottish Greens?
They are separate parties. The Scottish Greens stand in Scotland and support independence.
What does green politics put at the centre?
Protecting the environment and tackling climate change. Green politics centres on protecting the environment and tackling climate change.
Which UK law set legally binding climate targets in 2008?
The Climate Change Act. The 2008 Climate Change Act set legally binding climate targets.