How many times have we heard the argument that there is no trade-off between pursuing Net Zero and economic growth? The argument lies at the heat of the country’s economic, climate and environmental policy debate.

The energy secretary, Ed Miliband, repeats the mantra at every opportunity – “clean energy and Net Zero equals good jobs and economic growth” – and he is echoed in this article of faith by an entire industry (in the public and private spheres) that have thrown their lot in with the clean energy drive, whether through opportunism or conviction.

But what if they’re all wrong?

The debate has animated politicians for years and has spilled over into the culture wars, with scepticism of the environmental consensus becoming a cornerstone of populist and insurgent parties. Cool heads are needed now more than ever, not least because decisions taken today (indeed, decisions taken five and ten years ago) will determine our future prosperity.