Manifesto shows the way for local authorities

23 April 2012

23 April 2012

A local government election manifesto has been published today that calls for solar panels on every council building. It's one of a package of measures designed to create local jobs, reduce costs and improve council efficiency.

But far from representing the wishes of one political party, the Friends of the Earth Cymru manifesto [1] is intended to influence the policies of all political parties - and particularly council Leaders after the election.

Gareth Clubb, Director of Friends of the Earth Cymru, said:

"Our solar plan would provide employment for local installers and manufacturers, reduce the carbon footprint of our local authorities and provide valuable income through the sale of electricity. Authorities taking an ambitious stance on the proposals in our manifesto will enjoy substantial cost savings at the same time as starting to make the transition to truly sustainable development.

"And of course, we know that people's quality of life is much higher in places that are truly sustainable [2] - meaning people are more likely to want to live and work there."

NOTES

1. The Friends of the Earth Cymru manifesto for the local government elections 2012:
    - Welsh version
    - English version
2. The Welsh Local Government Association's guide to Health, Well-being and Sustainable Development

For further information, please contact Friends of the Earth Cymru on 029 2022 9577