A new plan to tackle the impact of climate change in North Lanarkshire has been published, and the public are asked for their feedback.
We have produced a Draft Climate Plan setting out actions to move to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
The plan includes how the council will reduce its own carbon footprint as well as addressing the issues across the area.
It includes actions and targets for improving energy efficiency in council buildings and local housing and reducing carbon dioxide emissions from waste and transport.
Residents, businesses and local organisations are invited to take part in a consultation on the draft plan, with the feedback being incorporated into a final version to be approved by the council’s Policy and Strategy Committee later in the financial year.
“Climate change is one of the most important issues facing the world, and we have a responsibility to act now to reduce our emissions and promote sustainable development and help achieve the national targets set out in the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009,” said Councillor Michael McPake, Conveber of the Environment and Transportation Committee.
“In June 2019, the council declared a climate emergency and set a net zero target for 2030. We will use this new Climate Plan to plan and monitor our work, in partnership with residents, the businesses community and other public organisations.
“Building-related emissions account for 67% of the council’s carbon footprint so we will be identifying ways to improve energy efficiency, reduce heat demand and decarbonise heat in existing buildings as well as improve the way we design and build new homes, schools and other facilities.
“We are also protecting our greenspaces, rivers and lochs, raising awareness of climate change among school pupils, improving recycling rates, replacing traditional street lights with LED bulbs, using electric vehicles in our fleet and installing more electric charging points, and improving active travel links across North Lanarkshire.
In support of the COP26 conference taking place in Glasgow this year, the council is organising a series of events to target climate change denial and raise awareness among individuals and organisations. Every primary and ASN pupil in North Lanarkshire will also be able to plant a tree in recognition of the climate challenges facing the country.