Читать книгу How Can I Stop Climate Change: What is it and how to help - Литагент HarperCollins USD, F. M. L. Thompson - Страница 129

The government estimates local authorities can cut their own energy use by 11 per cent. Although local authorities themselves are responsible for a small proportion of UK emissions they have powers beyond their own buildings, land and work force: they also influence suppliers and services through the goods and services they buy; they control local planning and development, and are responsible for green spaces and promoting public transport.

A scattering of local authorities have embraced the need to take action on climate change. More than 220 have signed a commitment to make this a cornerstone of their policies. The year 2000 saw the launch of The ‘Nottingham Declaration on Climate Change’ (updated in 2005), in which all signed up councils were encouraged to develop a climate change action plan and set targets for reducing emissions.

Nottingham City Council, the first authority to sign, has reduced its carbon emissions by 30,000 tonnes by using renewable energy supplies. Its policies have helped stabilise emissions from transport in the city and boosted recycling rates. The council is now looking to become carbon neutral.