LGA responds to Friends of the Earth report on climate-friendly councils

3 Oct 2019 11:04 AM

Cllr David Renard, Environment spokesman for the Local Government Association, yesterday responded to a report by Friends of the Earth on climate-friendly councils.

Cllr David Renard, Environment spokesman for the Local Government Association, yesterday said:

“Councils are already doing significant work to protect the environment, to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change and to address issues that affect the environment and the health of our communities.

“This includes tackling harmful air pollution by devising clean air zones and protecting at-risk areas outside schools, encouraging the use of electric vehicles through promoting recharging points, and investing in cycling.

“However, national climate change targets are unlikely to be met unless councils are given long-term funding, devolved powers and easier access to complex government funding pots.

“A joint national taskforce led by councils would harness the critical partnership between local and national government to coordinate and drive climate change action for the benefit of communities, the country and the planet.”

Notes

The LGA’s recent press release outlines how climate change goals hinge on funding and powers for local areas.