Wiltshire Council pledges commitment to combat climate change

Wiltshire Council today (September 15) reaffirmed its commitment to combat climate change by stating its desire to continue to support the Nottingham Declaration.

A motion to leave the declaration was put forward at a meeting of the full council today, but was not passed after Wiltshire’s councillors voted against it - 84 votes to six votes. Marlborough Mayor, Nick Fogg made a speech, amongst others in favour of continuing to support the Nottingham Declaration.

Wiltshire Council joined more than 300 local councils when signing the Nottingham Declaration on May 6. Each council has pledged to actively tackle climate change in their area and to help the UK deliver its national climate change targets.

By signing the declaration Wiltshire Council has agreed to develop plans with its partners and local community over the next two years to address the causes and impacts of climate changes. The council is working with all sectors to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, increase the community’s resilience to climate change and tackle fuel poverty.

Toby Sturgis, Wiltshire Council member with responsibility fo the environment, said: “I'm pleased we've made this pledge to continue to combat climate change. It shows Wiltshire Council is committed to reducing its carbon footprint.  The council is also working with partners, communities and businesses across the county to reduce their carbon footprints. In addition we will be signing up to the 10:10 Campaign to further show our support for this globally-important issue.”

People can find out more about the Nottingham Declaration pledge by visiting www.nottinghamdeclaration.org.uk and find out more about the 10:10 Campaign by visiting www.1010uk.org.