The WECA Committee has declared a climate emergency as part of our ongoing work to reduce carbon emissions across the region.
See how we can work together for clean growth: https://t.co/FlBrRuKazg— West of England Combined Authority (@WestofEnglandCA) July 19, 2019
The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) has declared a climate emergency.
In recognition of the seriousness of the global climate emergency, WECA has become the fourth Combined Authority in the country to declare a climate emergency, joining the Liverpool City Region, West Yorkshire and West Midlands.
Regional Mayor, Tim Bowles said: “The West of England has already made a strong commitment to tackling climate change. Figures from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy demonstrate a reduction in carbon emissions across the West of England Combined Authority region by 35% since 2005. This reduction was achieved while the region’s economy grew by 46% according to the Office of National Statistics.
“This clearly demonstrates that economic growth can be achieved alongside ambitious carbon reduction if we work together as a region. Climate change is a challenge recognised by all the leaders of the Combined Authority and we’re already backing our ambitious plans with real investment to build upon our early successes and ensure a clean, sustainable future for everyone.”
All three of WECA’s constituent councils – Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire – have also declared a climate emergency.
This week has seen ‘Summer Uprising’ protests in Bristol, Leeds, Glasgow, Cardiff and London by climate campaign group Extinction Rebellion. The campaigners are calling for more ambitious targets by the government, including a commitment to reach Net Zero by 2025.
