Newcastle City Council has declared a climate emergency and committed the city to an ambitious carbon-neutral future.
The declaration, agreed by councillors today, establishes an ambition for Newcastle to become carbon neutral by 2030. It recognises the urgency of climate change and the responsibility of local government to lead practical action.
Reaching this target will require environmental considerations to influence decisions about transport, buildings, energy, planning, procurement and the council’s own operations.
Our Labour-led council cannot achieve the transformation alone. We will need sustained cooperation from residents, universities, public services, housing providers and employers, as well as substantial support from the government.
The changes required will affect how homes are heated, how people travel and how new developments are designed. They will also create opportunities for new technology, skilled employment and investment in a cleaner economy.
Newcastle Labour believes the transition must be fair. Lower-income households must not be expected to carry costs they cannot afford, and communities throughout the city should benefit from warmer homes, cleaner air, improved transport and access to new jobs.
Ward councillors will have an important role in explaining proposals, listening to residents and ensuring that neighbourhood experiences influence the city’s plans.
Today’s declaration sets our direction, but it does not complete the task. Progress will have to be measured openly, and the council must be honest about where further powers, investment or changes in national policy are required.
We will work with organisations across Newcastle to turn this commitment into sustained action and build a greener, healthier and fairer city.
Newcastle Labour Cabinet Member for Climate Change & Public Safety, Cllr Clare Penny-Evans said:
“Newcastle has a responsibility to cut emissions and prepare for a changing climate. Labour’s ambition is to make that transition practical and fair, improving homes, transport, air quality and employment while working with communities across our city.”