South Gloucestershire Council is working closely and effectively with local people, groups and organisations to make a meaningful and positive impact on our environment, according to a report presented to Cabinet.
In its latest annual report on the progress being made across our area to take action on the climate and nature emergencies, detailing the sixth year of action since the Climate and Nature Emergency was declared in South Gloucestershire the scorecard shows good progress where the council and local people have control, and also spells out the challenges further afield.
For South Gloucestershire’s climate and natural environment to be better protected, further steps, regionally, nationally and internationally will be required. The council remains committed, however, to achieving net zero carbon by 2030 for the emissions within our direct control.
For emissions outside of council control, there are plans to consider updating the area wide target in line with the UK’s statutory commitment and the Climate Change Committee (CCC). This will be formally considered as part of an updated council Climate and Nature Strategy to be brought forward next year.
South Gloucestershire Council Cabinet Member for Climate and Nature Emergency, councillor Louise Harris, said: “This report shows real progress being made through real actions by the council, working with real people and real lives. We know we can’t fix everything ourselves, but by working together locally, we can do our part. At the same time, working collaboratively with communities brings people together with a shared aim to make where we live better now, and for the future.
“This year we have scaled up our progress and action with the launch of a number of major schemes that will deliver long term benefits for South Gloucestershire residents.
“We are committed to using all the levers that we have as a local authority, working with partners and businesses to minimise the local impacts of climate change and to restore nature.
“Despite the challenges facing us, the good news story is that this work can stimulate local economic opportunity and social benefits, in terms of new local jobs, better health and well-being and lowering cost of living
“South Gloucestershire is blessed with many great local organisations, residents and businesses who are working with us and already taking innovative action that delivers not only environmental, but also social benefits. We thank all of those partners for taking action already, and we continue to invite all members of our communities to get involved in local projects.”