HEREFORDSHIRE Council has launched a Climate and Nature Partnership Board as it aims to be a “thriving zero-carbon and nature rich county” by 2030.

The development of the board comes fast on the heels of COP26 — the summit on climate change that was held in Glasgow last month. The board is part of a long-term push to take climate action while bringing about positive change for residents. 

It also follows the declaration of a “climate emergency” by the council in March 2019.

After inviting applicants from across the county, the council has now appointed 15 candidates to drive implementation of a ‘Climate and Nature Action Plan’. 

It covers such topics as transport, energy, housing and buildings, waste, land use and farming, and food.

The board members bring expertise and knowledge through their roles in conservation, wildlife, architecture, farming, the media, energy, research, land management, agricultural policy and running businesses.

Among the members announced this week is Andrew Nixon, Herefordshire Wildlife Trust’s senior conservation manager.

The board will encourage everyone in the county – individuals, groups and businesses – to get involved. It will steer the Climate and Nature Action Plan, commission projects and monitor progress made.

Councillor Ellie Chowns, cabinet member for the environment and economy, said: “It’s all systems go now with the appointment of our board. 

“This is a key step in bringing people together to drive forward climate and nature action across the whole county.  

“We’re all passionate about protecting Herefordshire’s wonderful natural environment and wildlife for the benefit of future generations.

“We are extremely fortunate to have attracted such an exceptional, committed and diverse group of individuals to the board who, like myself, cannot wait to get to work to make our ambition a reality.

“We want to encourage everyone living, working and running businesses in Herefordshire to do their bit and take action to reduce their carbon footprint. 

“Tackling the climate emergency needs us all to play our part so that everyone can continue to enjoy what our county can offer for many years to come.”

Other recently announced schemes to help reach net-zero include changes to bin collections, stringent new standards for housing built on council land, grants offered to organisations and local councils seeking to reduce their carbon footprints and six pilot schemes for community car clubs.

For more information, visit zerocarbon.herefordshire.gov.uk.