Press Release:

Surrey Heath Borough Council has declared a Climate Emergency.  

Through two Climate Emergency Declaration motions passed by Full Council on 9 October, SHBC committed to tackle climate change, building on actions already being taken to address environmental issues. 

The Council pledged to become carbon neutral by 2030 across its own estate and operations, including contractors used, and support the actions being taken by Surrey County Council in this area. 

A crossparty Working Group will now be set up to develop the related strategy and actions required to meet the targets set. 

Leader of the Council, Cllr Richard Brooks said: “Climate change is a key issue for everyone, and SHBC is committed to working hard to help promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact. 

“These Climate Emergency declaration motions officially mark our commitment to implementing actions to tackle climate change. 

“This builds on work already taking place such as our high recycling rates (SHBC is consistently in the top 5 in the country), our commitment alongside the other Surrey Boroughs and Districts to Surrey County Council’s agreement to reducing single use plastics, and other actions including encouraging biodiversity, installing electric car charging points and replacing standard lights with energy-efficient LED versions throughout Main Square car park. 

“A Working Group will now be set up to develop a plan of action to deliver the targets set and I look forward to that being brought back to a future meeting as soon as possible.”  

More information on the Climate Emergency Motions passed at the Full Council Meeting can be found here