Foreword
Councillor Willie Samuel, Cabinet Member for Environmental Sustainability
Tackling climate change remains a key priority for the Council, and we remain determined to deliver the commitments set out in our Net Zero Action Plan.
Although financial pressures continue to grow and resources are constrained, we are maintaining momentum towards our ambitious carbon reduction targets by maximising funding opportunities and external investment. We reject the notion that net zero increases costs, and we have striven in our approach to lower costs as well as lower emissions.
We continue to look for new ways to reduce emissions from our own operations and empower others across the Borough to do the same. We are increasing our focus on climate adaptation, ensuring that communities are better prepared for the impacts of a changing climate, including more frequent and severe weather events.
The actions we are taking to address climate change bring significant wider benefits for local people and places. As well as reducing carbon emissions, we can improve health and wellbeing, support economic growth, and stimulate investment in green industries.
Delivering meaningful progress requires a collective effort. For this reason, partnership working remains at the heart of our approach. We continue to work alongside businesses, community organisations, and public sector partners to develop solutions and achieve common goals.
Success will also depend on the active involvement of residents and communities. Helping people understand the need for change and the opportunities that come with the transition to net zero is essential. By encouraging participation and working collaboratively, we can support national climate ambitions while delivering lasting benefits locally.
We will continue to engage with Government and other funding bodies to secure the resources needed to accelerate delivery across the Borough. While the challenges are significant, we are optimistic about the opportunities ahead and remain committed to building a cleaner, more resilient, and sustainable future for everyone.