Lewes District Council has launched a climate change and sustainability strategy to reach its target of net zero carbon and fully climate resilient by 2030 – identifying buildings and transport as two priorities.
Councillor Matt Bird, Cabinet Member for Sustainability, said: “We declared a climate emergency in July 2019 and this kickstarted a whole organisational change which now places sustainability and climate change considerations at the heart of all our decision making.
“The Climate Change and Sustainability Strategy provides a comprehensive evidence base for carbon emissions in both the council and the district and underpins the many actions laid out in the action plan and sets out the pathway to a Climate resilient future in the district.”
The analysis undertaken shows that buildings and transport are the largest sources of emissions. The council’s emissions for 2018/19 were 1,590 tonnes CO2, compared to 458,000 tonnes (based on 2017 data) for the district as a whole. A detailed agriculture and land use study was also undertaken, with findings detailed in the strategy.
Councillor Bird added:
“What this data shows is that while the challenges are great, opportunities for the council to facilitate change and lead by example are within our grasp and we are determined to seize them.
“Alongside the many climate challenges we face, there is also an ecological emergency to address. Nature-based solutions and a more climate-aware use of land is a major issue to address.
“Engaging with our local communities, local organisations and experts has been key to developing the strategy and we are fully committed to working with and supporting our partners on the many climate projects across the district. One of the ways we are doing this is by supporting the sustainability and climate hubs being set up.”
To view the full Climate Change and Sustainability Strategy and Action Plan visit: lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/climatechange
