16 December 2015
Local councils in Dorset are being urged to join a national network dedicated to dealing with climate change.
The call comes from Dorset’s Greens as world leaders struck a deal in Paris to fight global warming.
Nearly 100 local councils across England have now signed up for Climate Local -- a national plan to tackle environmental issues. But Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, Dorset County Council and West Dorset District Council have all so far failed to back the Local Government Association’s initiative.
Kelvin Clayton, chair of South and West Dorset Green Party, said:
“Some of the worst floods since records began are a reminder of how serious a threat global warming is becoming. I’m delighted to see how seriously leaders across the world are now taking this issue.
“But you don’t need to go to a summit in Paris to make a difference. The LGA initiative is a really positive way of encouraging councils to take environmental issues more seriously at a local level. I would urge Dorset councillors of all parties to support this move.”
Climate Local was launched three years ago. Since then 96 councils up and down the country -- including neighbours Hampshire County Council -- have signed up to it. Its aims include:
Encouraging local councils to find ways of saving on their energy bills.
Better managing the impact of severe weather at a local level…and reducing the risk of flooding.
Raising the profile of cutting carbon emissions.
Improving long term planning for dealing with climate change.
Kelvin, a Bridport Town Councillor, said:
“Millions of pounds have already been spent on coastal defences in Dorset to meet rising sea levels. Unless we break our dependence on fossil fuels that problem will only get worse. I applaud our government for signing the Paris agreement but they won’t tackle global warming if they go on slashing subsidies to renewable energy projects.
“Backing the LGA’s Climate Local initiative can only encourage local planners to think green and save local communities from the threat of fracking. That must be for the common good.”
Any queries please contact Daragh Croxson daragh2@hotmail.co.uk
07585608719
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