North East Lincolnshire to be “carbon net zero” by 2050, claims NELC

North East Lincolnshire to be “carbon net zero” by 2050, claims NELC

North East Lincolnshire Council are set to discuss two reports which aim to “transform life” in the borough during the next thirty years, it has been revealed.

As the COP26 summit is underway in Glasgow, NELC have announced two reports: The Carbon Roadmap, which sets out their aims to cut carbon emissions to net zero by 2040, and for North East Lincolnshire to be carbon net zero by 2050.

The second report is the Natural Assets Plan, which sets out how the area’s “unique natural environment” can be improved.

Net zero means reducing carbon emissions as much as possible and balancing the remainder through investing in programmes that increase carbon storage, such as planting more trees or artificial storage solutions.

A council spokesperson said both of these reports link in with the Government’s national targets for cutting carbon emissions, reducing the impact of climate change and improving biodiversity.

Scrutiny panel members will review the proposals at a special meeting on Tuesday 9 November and cabinet members will meet to discuss the reports on Wednesday 1 December.

Cllr Philip Jackson, council leader and portfolio holder for the green agenda, said: “Moving to a net zero economy is one of the biggest challenges we face and means making big changes to every aspect of our lives.

“From how we heat our homes and workplaces to how we travel from a to b, our plans set out the steps we need to take as an organisation and as a community to reduce our carbon emissions and take better care of our local environment.

“Both documents explain the Council’s role in bringing about change, but also how individuals, businesses and organisations will need to work together to end the borough’s contribution to climate change and improve the natural environment.

“We’ve surveyed opinion widely on these issues and I’m grateful to everyone who took the time to give their feedback.

“It’s timely that we publish these reports at the start of COP26, the international climate summit in Glasgow, where we will be represented as part of the Local Government Association’s Pass the Planet campaign.

“Climate change is a global challenge that requires commitment, co-operation and action at every level if we are to keep out planet healthy for future generations.”