32.1 The Lead Member considered a report by the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport, together with an additional submission prepared by Councillors Taylor and Maples, the proposer and seconder of the Motion. The additional submission is contained in the Minute Book.
DECISIONS
32.2 The Lead Member RESOLVED to (1) recommend to Full Council that the Notice of Motion be supported; and
(2) provide the national and local context on climate emergency and environmental protection work already undertaken by the County Council, .
Reasons
32.3 The urgency of addressing climate change is undisputed. Climate change impacts are linked to and likely to worsen existing inequalities, particularly related to gender and income. The UK government has set a legally binding target under the Climate Change Act to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
32.4 The County Council first produced an Environmental Strategy in 2011 and has convened an Environment Board. The County Council recognises the urgency of addressing climate change and biodiversity loss, as reflected in its climate emergency action plan and its lead role in the Sussex Local Nature Partnership.
32.5 The Lead Member commented that the Bill, although lacking operational weight, accords with the spirit of the Council’s aspirations to protect biodiversity and achieve carbon neutrality through its activities as soon as possible and in any event by 2050.