11-point plan to tackle climate change gets green light from council leaders

Last week South Tyneside Council published its proposed climate change strategy outlining plans to make operations more eco-friendly.

In July 2019 the council declared a climate emergency and pledged to become a ‘champion’ of a carbon neutral future, taking all necessary steps to become carbon neutral in the next 10 years.

It committed to producing a five-year action plan by the end of March 2020.

The 11-point plan includes replacing old and inefficient buildings, flood prevention, boosting electric vehicle use, improving public transport, reducing congestion and increasing tree canopy coverage.

Speaking during meeting of the Cabinet, Coun Joan Atkinson, lead member for area management and community safety, described it as a “big moment” for the council.

“South Tyneside’s commitment to climate change is strong and focused, implementing strategies that bring about real change and significantly reducing the amount of carbon being emitted while increasing our renewable capabilities, moving to a cleaner, greener renewable source for our energy suppliers,” she said.

“Climate change is a responsibility that we all must share. We must seek every opportunity to implement solutions that support the reduction of emissions. We can no longer wait or turn our heads away from the significant impacts that we face in the right against climate change.”

The strategy was developed following consultation with the public, key stakeholders and the voluntary and community sector.

It will now be put to the Full Council on Thursday, March 19.