06.05.20
Major boost for Cheshire East Council on climate emergency
This week has seen Cheshire East Council agree its Carbon Neutral Action Plan and its first Environment Strategy, two huge steps in tackling the climate emergency.
The Council’s first virtual meeting took place yesterday (May 5) in response to lockdown restrictions and new government regulations allowing the meeting to take place without being physically present.
The Carbon Neutral Action Plan will set out how the council will deliver the target of carbon neutrality by 2025 whilst supporting its residents and businesses in the area to do the same.
This includes driving a change in behaviour and culture on areas such as business travel and low-emission vehicles.
Sources such as solar panels and other renewable energy supplies will be explored as well as carbon capture opportunities, with carbon neutral ambitions at the heart of every major investment and policy decision made by the authority.
Councillor Nick Mannion, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for environment and regeneration, said:
“In May 2019, the council noted the UK declaration of a climate emergency and committed to being carbon neutral by 2025.
“As part of this commitment, we will encourage all businesses, residents and organisations in Cheshire East to limit their carbon footprint by reducing energy consumption and promoting healthy lifestyles.
“The plan will help to ensure that we all continue to work together to make a real impact on the future sustainability of the borough.”
The wider Environment Strategy, a first for the council, has also been prioritised with decisions made on things like waste and pollution reduction, sustainable and active travel and plans to protect and enhance the natural environment.
The council will look to engage with the local community to encourage a change in behaviour with local community pride embedded into all work they do.
Image: Cheshire East Council