Climate emergency declared
A climate emergency has been declared by East Renfrewshire Council ahead of COP26 - despite opposition councillors claiming the move was “political posturing”, writes Drew Sandelands.
SNP members Annette Ireland and Caroline Bamforth urged councillors to declare an emergency in a motion which recognised ongoing work in East Renfrewshire, but called for plans to be accelerated.
They were backed by their SNP colleagues, Labour and an independent councillor, who passed the motion by eight votes to three.
However, Conservative councillors, while praising the work of council officers, said declaring an emergency was“a little ineffectual”.
And Councillor Stewart Miller, a former Conservative politician, now independent, abstained.
Councillor Miller, who chairs the council’s audit and scrutiny committee, which recommended renewing a climate change strategy and action plan, said the motion was a“kick in the teeth”for staff in the environment department.
The motion called for a Climate Change Partnership Group to bring together councillors, residents, youngsters and businesses to work on reducing their carbon footprint.
It asked council staff to look into funding options for the“necessary actions” needed to combat the crisis, and for climate change impact assessments for all policies to“assist towards reaching the goal of zero emissions”.
Councilllor Ireland said: “The leaders of more than 100 countries from around the world will gather in Glasgow.
“The outcome of the summit will shape the future of the planet that we live on.
“Local authorities have the responsibility to lead on the climate change agenda, and it is extremely important that the council declares today that we support taking action to combat this emergency.
“Somewhat closing the stable door after the horse has well and truly bolted.”
And Councillor Miller said he was“extremely disappointed”with the motion, which was a“slap in the face”for all residents who recycle.
He said council staff“are doing as much as they can given the resources this administration gives them”.
He added:“Given the cabinet has already accepted the audit and scrutiny report, this motion is merely political posturing.”