CLIMATE action plans in Warwick district are in the top quarter of a league table comparing plan data from all UK councils.
Climate Emergency UK released the figures, with Warwick District Council (WDC) tabling 47th out of 181 councils, as well as being the highest among authorities in Warwickshire.
Each council’s plan was assessed in October, looking at areas including governance, funding, commitment, and community engagement.
Although the council has noted the scoring took place before the adoption of its Climate Change Action Programme in November and therefore did not take into account the updated plan and current progress.
The Climate Change Action Programme sets out ambitions for the whole of South Warwickshire with steps on how to achieve them. Since its adoption the council has already:
· Started retrofitting social housing properties with solar PV panels, air source heat pumps and insulation
· Divested 100 per cent of savings from fossil fuel funds
· Reconvened the People’s Climate Change Inquiry to update them on progress and continue with community engagement
· Planned to ensure all council vehicles are fully electric by the end of 2022
· Worked with Warwickshire County Council to develop net zero webinars for businesses in South Warwickshire
· Progressed with the net zero buildings planning document to ensure all new developments are carbon neutral
In addition, the council has been regularly advising residents with tips on draught-proofing their home or referrals to local charity Act On Energy for advice on grants and switching fuel providers.
The council has also updated its climate change web pages to provide clear information for residents and businesses, including a quiz which provides tips on carbon footprint reduction.
WDC climate change spokesman Coun Alan Rhead said: “Over the last year, the council’s work in addressing the climate emergency has gathered real momentum.
“I welcome the work Climate Emergency UK have done on preparing the scorecard. However, it doesn’t fully reflect the achievements we have made or the plans that we have.
“Whilst we know there is much more we need to do, the Climate Change Action Programme that we agreed in November is already providing a springboard for real progress in many areas and I, together with the senior officers and members of the Programme Advisory Board are committed to driving this agenda forward in the coming months and years.”
Visit www.warwickdc.gov.uk/climatechange to view the council’s plans.
