Environment and roads

Climate change

Scientists now agree that climate change is a serious threat, not just to the environment but to our society and economy. It is almost certain that it is a result of human activities contributing to, and accelerating the natural climate change process.

The county council is committed to tackling climate change and preparing for its likely impacts. In February 2007, we signed the Nottingham Declaration – a national document that commits local authorities to take action to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.

We are already doing a lot of work to reduce our own impact on the environment and are working alongside our partners to reduce CO₂ emissions across the county.

We are developing our climate change strategy along two main themes: mitigation and adaptation. The mitigation theme is represented within our recently approved Carbon Management Strategy which commits us to a 25 percent reduction in CO₂ emissions by 2012/13. The adaptation theme is concerned with how the county council will need to respond and potentially adapt to the impacts of future climate change. An adaptation work programme is now under development, with a strategy anticipated to be ready by the end of 2008.

We recognise that climate change is likely to be one of the most challenging issues for not only our own organisation, but for everyone living and working within Hertfordshire. The county council wants to make it as easy as possible for you to get the information you need to live a low carbon lifestyle. This website contains information, advice and links to get you started.

We can achieve so much more if everyone works together - individuals, schools, businesses, organisations, local and national government across the UK and the World joining forces to tackle climate change.