Decision details

Purpose of Report: To provide an update on activities related to carbon reduction and climate change, and to propose a set of actions which Executive might consider in developing the council’s response to the declaration of a climate emergency.

Members are asked to note the report and consider the proposed activities.

Resolved:  (i)      That the significant activities and commitments already made in respect of the Climate Emergency agenda be noted.

Reason:     To confirm that the Executive is aware of work carried out against this commitment of the Council.

                   (ii)      That the following activities be requested, as set out in paragraph 35 of the report:

a)   The Climate Change Policy & Scrutiny Committee to consider York refreshing its engagement with the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy;

b)   Officers to investigate the potential for York’s participation in the developing network of UK Climate Emergency cities;

c)   Officers to investigate how to engage with the newly established Local Government Association Climate Emergency Task and Finish Group, which will make recommendations on how the government can support councils in achieving climate emergency targets;

d)   A further report to be developed regarding the emerging Carbon Reduction Plan, the timing of which will be determined by the Leader.

e)   Reports in relation to the following investments made in the Emergency Budget to be brought to the Executive / Executive Member for Economy & Strategic Planning, as indicated below:

·        To Executive:

o   The Northern Forest, with this initiative to be signed up to by the council

o   Building Insulation Programme

o   Electric Charging Points.

·        To the Executive Member:

o   Additional capacity to speed up the production of Supplementary Planning Documents to support the Local Plan.

Reason:     To allow the work in response to the Climate Emergency declaration to be progressed.