Have your say on Climate Strategy

The public are being urged to get involved in the creation of Somerset’s first Climate Emergency Strategy. All four district councils and Somerset County Council declared or recognised climate emergencies in 2019, agreeing to work together to produce a joint Climate Emergency Strategy, residents, businesses, groups and anyone with an interest now have a chance to discuss the initial thoughts set out in a ‘framework’ document that identifies ways for Somerset to work towards being carbon neutral by 2030 and adapt to predicted climate change impacts.

 

Drop-in events are taking place in each District Council area in January and February, being run by the Somerset Climate Action Network (Somerset CAN) on behalf of the councils. They will all take place of Saturdays between 10am and 4pm, the first being held on Saturday 18 January at The Glass Box, in Taunton Library, Paul Street.

 

At the Taunton event, Somerset Arts Works artist, Simon Ripley will be running mono printing workshops for all ages, using natural materials. Naturalist and broadcaster Mike Dilger will host a talk entitled: ‘Sustainability starts in your own back garden’ and members of The Castle School Eco Group will be sharing their views about the climate and ecological emergency.

 

There will be numerous opportunities to have your say, from completing a survey on one of the available tablets or giving a short interview on camera, to leaving comments on the infographic boards and answering questions on the consultation tree.

 

Other events will be held on Saturdays, between 10am and 4pm at the following venues, including workshops with Somerset Arts Work artist Fiona Campbell.

 

8 February, Sedgemoor District Council. The Sedgemoor Room, Bridgwater House, King Square, Bridgwater, TA6 3AR.

15 February, Mendip District Council. The Council Chamber, Mendip District Council Offices, Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5BT.

22 February, South Somerset District Council. Vicarage Street Methodist Church, Vicarage Street, Yeovil, BA20 1JB.

 

More information and details of how to take part in a county-wide survey can be found on the Council Website