In 2019, the Stafford authority declared a climate emergency. They initially aimed for net zero carbon emissions by 2040. Recently, Green councillors Doug Rouxel and Emma Carter proposed moving that goal to 2035. The full council agreed, calling it an “aspirational target” that shows their commitment to climate action.
Tony Pearce, a member of the council focused on climate strategies, acknowledged the urgency. “Good progress has been made,” he said, but noted that global warming is speeding up. The council now has a climate change strategy and an action plan. They aim to be even more ambitious going forward.
Funding for this initiative relies on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Their first step is to assess their assets to find ways to cut energy use, leading to savings.
However, not everyone is on board. Jeremy Pert, the opposition group leader, raised concerns about costs. He emphasized the need for a detailed, costed plan. “Residents expect us to act wisely,” he noted. Another councillor, Roy James, suggested delaying the 2035 target until a full plan is in place, but this amendment didn’t pass.
Rouxel defended the accelerated target. He pointed out that when they set the 2040 date, there wasn’t a cost plan. He reassured everyone that the 2035 target is aspirational—no fines will be imposed if it’s not met.
This moment reflects a growing trend in local governance. Many councils globally are stepping up their climate commitments. Recent studies indicate that 58% of local governments worldwide have declared climate emergencies, showing a political shift towards more proactive environmental policies.
As climate change escalates, we may see more communities and councils making similar pledges to protect our planet.
Source link
news,local hubs,staffordshire,ldrs,environment
