Councils petition Huhne for local action on climate17 September 2010
Leading councils are backing Friends of the Earth's petition for a law to ensure every council does its bit to save the planet.
The councils are spearheading a call for a nationwide system of local carbon budgets. The legislation would help every council lead ambitious action on climate change in its area.
Cross-party group
An impressive cross-party group of council leaders launched the petition. Now we want all council leaders to add their name.
The petition will be presented to Climate Secretary Chris Huhne this autumn.
The petition
The petition argues that a nationwide system of local carbon budgets would create a "coordinated approach to tackling climate change between local and national Government".
We want to make the city greener and see local carbon budgets as a key part of this - it made perfect sense to sign up.
Sandy Taylor, Head of Climate Change, Birmingham City Council
The petition says action by some councils is already cutting emissions, "bringing tangible benefits to local residents, employees and businesses". And it calls for "area-based action to tackle climate change to be rolled out nationwide".
Along with Friends of the Earth, we believe passionately that cities must lie at the heart of any plans to tackle climate change.
Sir Richard Leese, Leader Manchester City council
Friends of the Earth's Executive Director Andy Atkins said: "We're delighted these councils are backing this crucial initiative, and hope to see many others join them sending a strong message to Government."
Get involved
Friends of the Earth local groups around the country are calling on their councils to sign up to the petition.
And you can get involved too. It's vital that all politicians hear about local carbon budgets from their constituents.
Please ask your MP to support local carbon budgets now.
Why local action works
Local action on climate change would boost the economy, slash energy bills and create much-needed jobs.
Local action:
- Makes deeper emissions cuts possible
- Involves local people in decisions about their own communities
- Can be more cost-effective
- Brings benefits like better public transport, thriving town centres, and new local business.
Friends of the Earth's Get Serious About CO2 campaign is inspiring local action across the country. It's supported by a range of organisations, including the Women's Institute, the Federation of Small Business, and Unison, as well as green groups.
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