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Local Authorities urged to prepare for Climate Change
7th December 2004
With Prime Minster Tony Blair recently calling it "a challenge so far-reaching in its impact and irreversible in its destructive power, that it alters radically human existence", the profile of climate change and its potential consequences is at an all-time high.
A global phenomenon, its effects will be felt most sharply at a local level. And in the UK, few areas will be as exposed as south-east England where a relentlessly expanding population brings demand for new living space, increases levels of greenhouse gas emissions and places extra pressure on already scarce water and energy supplies.
The Environment Agency is keen to exploit the heightened awareness of climate change and encourage new initiatives that will slow its progress or help ensure communities are better prepared for dealing with its effects.
Recognising the strategically vital role of local authorities in this task, the Environment Agency is holding a one-day seminar for local authority members and officers on Wednesday 8 December at Oxford Town Hall.
Entitled "Planning for climate change: working in partnership in the Thames Valley", the day will focus on the key areas of managing flood risk, reconciling new development and water resources, sustainable construction and supporting renewable energy.
Specialists from the Environment Agency will present and hold workshops on topics related to these issues, and will outline its position on climate change, how it is tackling this at a national level, and how authorities can make a significant positive impact at a local level. There will also be speakers from the UK Climate Impact Programme, the Government Office of the South East, the South East Climate Change Partnership and the Thames Valley Energy Partnership.
"Climate change is happening and will have profound ramifications for the Thames Valley if we do not acknowledge the fact and being preparing for its consequences now," said Innes Jones, the Environment Agency"s west Thames area manager.
"All elements of society need to play a part, and local authorities are in a unique position - they can use their influence to be real catalysts for positive change, driving new thinking through their own example.
"Some have already been extremely proactive on this issue and have made public commitments to switch to alternative fuels, reduce COČ emissions and recycle more water for example. This is commendable, but we want to see even more emulate the best and hope this seminar will be the spur they need."
Copyright 2004 The Environment Agency
www.environment-agency.gov.uk
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: The intellectual property in the above article is the property of The Environment Agency and is reproduced in accordance with The Environment Agency’s Notice and Rights of Obligation.
