Cornwall Council has been recognised as a leader in tackling climate action by a charity that helps regions, local authorities and companies across the world manage their environmental impact.
The authority received an A rating from CDP - formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project - in recognition of its actions in lowering its own emissions, influencing residents and organisations across Cornwall to reduce their carbon footprint and work to lobby government to provide the support needed to help the region reach net zero.
Cornwall Council is among just 13% of regions and cities globally to receive CDP’s top score, which is seen as the gold standard of environmental reporting.
It had to show its climate action plan, its emissions figures and climate risk assessment to reach the highest CDP status.
Among the council programmes highlighted include investment in net zero activity such as through the Shared Prosperity Fund, the 8000-hectare Forest for Cornwall and green travel initiatives such as the introduction of hireable electric bikes and the reduced bus fares pilot.
Also recognised are efforts to protect and reverse the decline of nature detailed in the Local Nature Recovery Strategy, work to improve Cornwall’s energy security as seen in the Local Area Energy Plan and the council’s housing retrofit programme.
Cllr Martyn Alvey, Cornwall’s cabinet member for environment and climate change, said:
“Being recognised in the prestigious CDP list highlights our collaborative efforts across Cornwall working to lower carbon emissions and create a thriving environment for all.
“Our submission included our approach to tackling the climate emergency as well as recognising the needs of our residents. This is underpinned by the development and utilisation of the Cornwall Development and Decision Wheel.
“The breadth of action we’re undertaking to tackle the climate and ecological emergencies showcases our ability to work with our residents, partners and nationally with government.”
The CDP accolade follows another high rating for Cornwall Council’s carbon reduction programmes from Climate Emergency UK last month.
Assessing the climate action of all councils across the country the campaign group rated Cornwall the best rural authority and the 19th highest-performing unitary authority out of 132 single tier authorities.
To find out more about Cornwall’s work to become carbon neutral listen to our podcast:
Let's talk about climate change - Let's talk about... | Podcast on Spotify Story posted November 14, 2023
