Issue - meetings

This report provides an update on the council’s performance against the Climate Emergency and Sustainability Strategy 2024 -2027, adopted by the Council on 12 December 2023, and it’s associated Action Plan (Appendix 1).

Recommendation(s):

That the Committee note the progress made against the Climate Emergency and Sustainability Action Plan 2024 – 2027 and agree the forward direction of travel as outlined in this report.

The Climate Change & Sustainability Strategy Officer provided an update on the progress made on the Climate Action Plan over the past six months, highlighting key achievements and challenges. Notable actions include the installation of solar panels, securing funding for a decarbonisation plan, and retrofitting homes for energy efficiency. The district's emissions have declined by 3%, with ongoing projects and community initiatives aimed at further reductions. Funding has been secured for various climate initiatives, with a focus on sustainability and community engagement.

Members expressed enthusiasm about the impressive funds raised for environmental initiatives, highlighting the success in utilising last year's budget. However, concerns were raised regarding Three Rivers District's greenhouse gas emissions, which have seen a dramatic decline since 2018 but require a significant reduction to meet future targets. The officer emphasised the district's ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 and discussed the importance of transitioning from gas to electricity to take advantage of the upcoming decarbonisation of the national grid. The conversation also touched upon innovative projects, such as installing solar panels in car parks, to enhance renewable energy integration within the district.

Members further inquired about local planning policies aimed at enhancing sustainability in new builds. Members asked about the planning policy's role in the local plan, emphasising the importance of sustainable practices to combat climate change. The officer responded by detailing the collaboration with a specialist company, Edgars, which is helping to draft sustainability policies. They discussed the need for a holistic approach to future developments, including tree planting initiatives and the challenges posed by national planning policies. The conversation also touched on the complexities surrounding tree preservation and the enforcement of anti-idling measures around schools.

Members of the Committee emphasises the need for public education regarding the benefits of trees, particularly in the context of urban development. They highlighted common misconceptions where trees are viewed negatively, often due to the influence of builders who advocate for their removal. Members pointed out the crucial advantages trees provide, such as shade during warmer summers and their ability to retain water, which can mitigate flooding effects, but also expressed concerns about the declining public perception of trees and the challenges faced in protecting them.

Members also inquired about external insulation, raising questions regarding educational efforts to promote its benefits and the availability of financial assistance for those unable to afford the costs. The officer responded by highlighting ongoing initiatives aimed at encouraging insulation uptake, particularly among low-income households. The officer also mentioned the challenges faced in reaching potential beneficiaries and the introduction of the Warm Homes grant, which offers substantial financial support for insulation and heat pumps to qualifying postcodes, regardless of income.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee note the progress made against the Climate Emergency and Sustainability Action Plan 2024 – 2027 and agree the forward direction of travel as outlined in this report.