Reform-run Derbyshire County Council has officially eradicated climate change, fossil fuels and net zero from all of its environmental policies.
The authority has now formally replaced the previous climate change strategy with an environmental sustainability strategy.
This new policy, which is legally mandated to meet the county council’s environmental responsibilities, including as a flood authority, no longer contains any reference to climate change, net zero, or fossil fuels.
It has been overseen by Councillor Carol Wood (Ref), whose title had included net-zero, but has been streamlined to the cabinet member for environment – including policies on clean energy.
Earlier this year, the draft replacement strategy was in the process of being finalised and now the Reform cabinet has signed off on the plan.
This approved policy follows a slew of back-to-back wetter winters, with flooding occuring in some areas which have never flooded before, in the midst of record-breaking heatwaves and the Tintwistle wildfire which has seen the devastation of more than 1,400 acres of moorland.
Key issues addressed in the policy include improving air quality, but with no reference to the source of pollution issues. There are passing mentions of congestion and transport emissions, alongside preparing for extreme and adverse weather, but without a connection to their triggers.
The new strategy says: “The council has a responsibility to look after this environment in a way that is practical, proportionate and focused on real outcomes for local people.
“Environmental sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
“It forms the basis for safe spaces, reliable services, affordable living, public health, and a robust local economy – all priorities for our residents.
“Done well, it helps the council to plan ahead, manage risk, and make good use of public resources.”
The new strategy has eight core themes, which are:
- Caring for Derbyshire’s natural environment and landscape
- Using energy, fuel and water efficiently
- Supporting clean, secure energy for Derbyshire
- Maintaining and improving air quality
- Reducing waste and using resources wisely
- Preparing for extreme and adverse weather
- Making it easier for people to travel around Derbyshire
- Helping people connect with the natural environment
In more detail, the strategy says: “Our communities are already experiencing more frequent flooding, storms, wildfires and heatwaves.
“These events can disrupt daily life, damage homes and businesses, and place pressure on essential services. Improving resilience helps protect people and places, reduces disruption and recovery costs, and ensures communities are better prepared to cope with future weather extremes.
“Improving travel options helps reduce congestion, improve air quality and support local economies.
“Reducing energy, fuel and water use lowers the cost and environmental impact of how the council operates, including in buildings and streetlighting.
“Good air quality is essential for public health, particularly for children, older people and those with existing health conditions. In a small number of locations, poor air quality continues to affect quality of life and wellbeing. Improving air quality supports healthier communities.
“Maintaining and improving air quality reduces pressure on health services and helps ensure Derbyshire’s towns, villages and countryside remain attractive and safe places to live and visit.”
The strategy does include reference to continued close working with the Midlands Net Zero Hub, alongside other councils, aimed at increasing the number of locally-owned clean energy projects delivered across Derbyshire.
