Residents can now view Richmond's amended strategy which outlines the boroughs approach to combating climate change and reducing Richmond's carbon footprint.

Cllr Martin Elengorn, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, said:"Climate Change is the biggest challenge society faces.

"No community is exempt from its effects and moving the borough towards a low-carbon future is everyone's responsibility.

"Hundreds of people, local groups and businesses gave us their views on our original draft.

"This just demonstrates how important Climate Change is as an issue to the borough.

"This strategy is ambitious.

"It will not be a quick fix and will require investment.

"We have put together an internal team who will be responsible for making sure that the strategy is implemented.

"However, we need to remember that reducing the borough’s carbon footprint is not just our responsibility - it is yours too.

"One thing was clear during the consultation. Young people in this borough are concerned that the decisions that we are making as adults will impact their future. We owe it to them and to future generations to protect this planet, before it is too late."

In July 2019 the Council declared a climate change emergency and asked residents across the borough to help develop a draft strategy aimed at presenting the borough’s contribution to saving our planet.

Over 85 per cent of people who had their say agreed that the Council should make climate change a top priority, with 75 per cent saying that the target of the Council becoming a carbon neutral organisation by 2030 was appropriate.

In addition to the consultation, a youth focused summit was held, which involved 160 children from 19 schools across the borough, including Sir David Attenborough. An adult focused event was also held, and 130 people attended to help develop the draft plan further.

The amended Climate Emergency Strategy has been overhauled to reflect the feedback.

In addition, analysis and data on borough-wide carbon emissions has also been included, along with stronger actions on using the influence of the Council to lobby for more support and action on climate change.

For more information visit Richmond Council online.