A bid to make Darlington carbon-neutral has been brought forward by 10 years after councillors warned it needs to be more ambitious.
The local authority declared a climate emergency in 2019 and pledged to achieve carbon-neutral status by 2050 - but the new Labour and Liberal Democrat-led administration has now stepped up efforts to achieve its goal earlier.
Cllr Chris McEwan’s proposal was backed by cross-party members on Thursday after hearing concerns the 2050 target is too far away, of little value in galvanising action and support was unambitious.
As part of the updated ambition the authority will continue to call on the government to provide funding and resources to achieve this aim.
Cllr McEwan said: “Officers have worked incredibly hard gathering data, applying for funding, and creating a carbon reduction programme. Solar panels have been installed on the town hall roof, council homes are being retrofitted and several other initiatives are now underway. Climate emergency UK scored the council well on their council climate plan scorecards.
“However, it is time to be more ambitious. I and many others in this chamber should bring the date forward to 2040 or before.”
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The motion also resolved to:
- Develop a carbon emissions reduction trajectory that supports the government’s commitment to the Paris Agreement of no more than 1.5C global temperature increase
- Ensure the council is adapting to climate change so it can continue to provide vital services
- Work with partners to encourage and persuade residents, businesses and the third sector to reduce emissions
- Work with education establishments to signpost them to suitable learning aids and encourage young people to get involved in decision-making and peer learning about how to tackle climate change
- Work with other councils and organisations to share best practice around climate and ecological emergencies
- Continue the cross-party working group to oversee the climate change work and provide support and guidance
- Progress reports will be brought to full council every six months
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