Chris Skidmore, the politician who signed the UK’s Net Zero pledge into law, has been named as the latest recipient of CIBSE’s Honorary Fellowship.
The former Conservative minister for energy and clean growth was presented with the honour by CIBSE President Dave Cooper at a ceremony at the Institution’s London headquarters.
Skidmore is the 71st recipient of the honour since it was first awarded in 1970 to recognise individuals who have made ‘an exceptional contribution to the built environment, engineering, society or areas aligned with CIBSE’s mission’.
The citation recognised his ongoing work in support of net zero. This includes, in 2019, signing into law the UK’s commitment to achieving net zero by 2050, making it the first major economy to establish such a legally binding target.
‘Chris Skidmore’s contribution to public policy, particularly in establishing the UK’s net zero framework and advancing practical pathways for delivery, has had a significant and lasting impact,’ said Cooper.
‘His work has helped to define the strategic direction of national climate policy, as well as influenced thinking well beyond the United Kingdom.’
Skidmore – who served as MP for Kingswood, in South Gloucestershire, for 14 years, until stepping down in 2024 – told guests at the presentation that he was ‘deeply humbled and honoured’ by the CIBSE award.