Tendring councillors have said a decision to scrap net zero and greenhouse gas reduction policies by the Reform-led administration at Essex County Council (ECC) “short sighted”.
Earlier this year ECC abandoned targets to become a net-zero organisation by 2030, aiming to save £3m over four years by scrapping support for the Essex Climate Action Commission, stopping the electrification of its vehicle fleet, removing requirements to consider the climate when looking at new contracts and making staff savings.
On Tuesday, September 1, TDC councillors backed an amended motion opposing what it described as ECC’s “short-sighted” moves. The motion said ECC’s previous policies and strategies were grounded in scientific evidence and developed through years of cross-party commitment and partnership working, including through the Essex Climate Action Commission, the Essex Climate Action Plan and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
TDC’s leader, Mark Stephenson, will now write to ECC leader Peter Harris “in the strongest possible terms,” to urge him to reconsider and reverse the decision to end net zero and greenhouse gas reduction policies.
Cllr Stephenson will ask for an itemised account of which environmental commitments will continue, change or cease, and ask for clarity on the future status of the Essex Climate Action Plan.
The TDC meeting heard that Tendring’s coastline, countryside, open spaces and communities are already affected by environmental pressures – from flooding and coastal management to biodiversity loss, air quality and resilience to extreme weather.
Councillors also highlighted the economic opportunities linked to the clean energy sector, including the role of Harwich Port and the wider district in supporting jobs, investment and growth as part of the country’s green energy revolution.
Adrian Smith, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said TDC’s own net zero commitments are being backed up by practical projects, including energy efficiency improvements to the boiler system at Clacton Leisure Centre and installing solar panels at the Sunspot business centre in Jaywick Sands have helped to protect the environment and save money.
“As a council we recognise that climate action, nature recovery and environmental protection are long-term responsibilities that go beyond any one administration,” he said. “In Tendring, this is not just about reducing carbon emissions. It is about protecting our coastline, improving public health, supporting our economy, reducing waste and saving money for the council and taxpayers.
“The progress made across Essex has been built on evidence, partnership working and a shared understanding of the challenges we face. To remove or weaken those commitments without clear evidence, transparency or consultation would risk undermining that progress, which is why we believe climate action, biodiversity and nature recovery must remain clear priorities across the county.