Consultation gets under way on new climate change strategy

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council is looking for your opinions on its new climate change strategy. The council has been drawing up plans with environmental experts to reduce the borough’s carbon footprint, and is now asking residents for their opinions.

The strategy aims includes a five per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from operational council buildings by 2011; switching over to green electricity in offices by 2016 and ensuring that all new properties and renovations use energy efficiency solutions as part of the planning and building control process.

In 2006 the Council made a commitment to tackling climate change by signing up to the Nottingham Declaration; a pledge to actively tackle climate change in its borough and offices. The council has been monitoring its emissions and developed the strategy after a thorough review of current operational practices.

Councillor Clare Berry, Executive Member for Environment, said: “Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council recognises the role it needs to play in tackling climate change. Following our review we understand that we have been doing considerably well already, for example our council houses are the third most energy efficient in the country. However, there is more that we can do to improve the way we operate and influence others, therefore we have drawn up an ambitious set of targets for the short and long term which we think will help the environment, deliver higher quality services and help others within the local community to reduce their carbon footprint.

“We do really value feedback and are eager to hear from local residents their views on the strategy and its aims.”

Tell us what you think by viewing the draft climate change strategy.