In October 2018, the IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change presented a special report on the state of global warming, which warned of the rapid and far reaching consequences of over 1.5 °C of warming on all aspects of society.  The Council recognises the importance of this report with the motion now adopted along with the following commitments.

1. Becoming a net-zero carbon organisation, including contracted out services, by 2025 in terms of scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.
2. Facilitating decarbonisation by local businesses, other organisations and residents so that total carbon emissions within Warwick District are as close to zero as possible by 2030.
3. Working with other local councils to lobby central government to help address the above points including by funding and changing regulation.
4. Engaging with and listening to all relevant stakeholders including members of the Warwickshire Youth Parliament regarding approaches to tackling the climate emergency.
5. Ensuring that tackling the Climate Emergency is central to the strategic business plan – both in terms of adaptation and mitigation.
6. Producing within six months an action plan to implement these commitments. This will be led by the portfolio holder for Environment & Business, Councillor Alan Rhead who will form a group with shadow portfolio holders for this purpose.

The Council has accepted the invitation to take part in the internationally recognised UN programme One Carbon World. This will make WDC the first council to become carbon neutral through this scheme, achieving internationally recognised UN Climate Neutral Status.

Warwick District Council’s newly appointed Portfolio Holder for Environment & Business Councillor Alan Rhead commented;

“By passing this motion, the new Council has declared how serious and committed we all are to tackling the issues around climate change and the environment. However, it is important to note that under the previous Administration several environmental actions had already been implemented and as a result there are many other schemes in progress which will be set out as each becomes finalised. I am looking forward to working with colleagues and partners over the coming months to formulate plans which will have a real impact on reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality in our district.”