Councillor Hughes moved the following motion which was seconded by
Councillor Johnson:
Council notes: That the impacts of climate change are already having a significant
effect on Rossendale.
The “Special Report on Global Warning of 1.5 degrees”, published by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in October 2018, not only describes the
enormous harm that a 2°C average rise in global temperatures is likely to cause
compared with a 1.5°C rise but also confirms that limiting Global Warming to 1.5°C may
still be possible with ambitious action from national and local government, and the
private sector.
We all have a duty to act on climate change and by having a strong policy to cut
emissions, this also has associated health, wellbeing and economic benefits.
Council therefore commits to:
Declaring a ‘climate emergency’ that requires urgent action
Working towards making the council’s activities net-zero carbon by 2030
Setting a 100% clean energy target, across the Council’s full range of functions by
2030
Proactively promoting the need for businesses across Rossendale to take steps to
be net-zero carbon by 2030
Writing to government asking them to bring forward new funding and devolved
powers to help make the zero-carbon target a reality
Creating a new Climate Change Member Champion who will support the relevant
Portfolio Holder and Leader of the Council in delivery of the commitments
Where necessary officer reports to Cabinet and Full Council contain impact
assessments on Climate Change, including presenting alternative approaches
which reduce carbon emissions where possible
Assigning a lead officer to deliver the Council’s commitments
Resolved:
The motion was carried.
Reason for Decision
To support the notice of motion.
Alternative Options Considered
None.
