New moves to tackle climate change have been announced by Gosport Borough Council.
The council has set aside cash in its new budget on measures including:
- employing a dedicated climate change officer at the council
- earmarking £20,000 towards installing electric vehicle charging points in council car parks
- boosting the council's tree-planting scheme by another £30,000, to help reach beyond the recent goal of 1,000 trees planted in 1,000 days by residents, the council and other local organisations – and aim for “The Year of A Thousand Trees” to inspire residents to think ‘green’
- investing £25,000 into a drive to encourage residents to recycle more and more carefully
The council is also investigating the re-wilding of unused areas, turning them into wildflower meadows.
Another plan under consideration is to have a real Christmas tree growing in Gosport High Street.
Cllr Mark Hook, Leader of the Council, said: "Climate change is a concern for all of us, and the council recognises that we all need to take action.
"We're committed to reducing our carbon emissions as an organisation, and encouraging residents and businesses to play their part.
"Measures to help tackle climate change are an important part of the council's new budget."
The council has already set up a working group with councillors of all parties, which has been working swiftly to produce a climate change strategy for the borough.
Options under consideration include ensuring council planning policies reflect climate change requirements, improving energy efficiency, reducing car travel, encouraging cycling and walking, and increasing the use of green electricity.
Cllr Piers Bateman, who chairs the working group, said: “Climate change will have a significant effect locally, nationally and globally, and action is needed to reduce emissions, mitigate the effects and build resilience for the borough. Residents, businesses and the council will all need to play their part.
“I’m pleased to be able to chair a dynamic group that is committed to helping the council progress this matter as swiftly as possible.”
