The London Borough of Harrow has announced the launch of a draft climate and nature strategy aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
The strategy, which was unveiled today, outlines vital action areas that will guide the council and the community in their efforts to combat climate change.
Recognising the significance of individual choices and collective action, the strategy focuses on the importance of daily decisions such as energy usage, transportation, consumption, and gardening practices. By addressing these aspects, Harrow aims to substantially impact the environment over time.
There are four proposed key themes that require collective action to achieve an effective climate change response:
- Clean Energy Used Efficiently: The strategy seeks to explore ways to heat and power homes and buildings using low-carbon methods.
- Green Mobility: The council aims to reduce the reliance on fossil fuel vehicles by promoting alternative transportation options.
- A Waste-Free Economy: Harrow plans to minimize waste and develop a sustainable and circular economy.
- Healthy Places for Us and Nature: The strategy emphasises creating space for nature within the borough, building a resilient environment for both residents and wildlife.
While acknowledging the existing initiatives within the borough, the council seeks to highlight and promote the good work being done. The engagement process will provide an opportunity for residents to share their knowledge and experiences regarding climate change initiatives already underway in Harrow.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation, which will conclude on September 3. The council will be hosting public drop-in sessions at St Anns Road in Harrow Town Centre on Saturday, July 8, and Thursday, July 20, from 11am to 2pm. T
These sessions will allow individuals to voice their opinions and contribute to shaping the climate and nature strategy.
“We have already started to look at ways to reduce carbon emissions in our own operations, for example through increasing the energy efficiency of public buildings and decarbonising our Fleet”, said Cllr Anjana Patel, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety.
“However, the council’s emissions are estimated at less than 5% of the borough as a whole and we need your help to really achieve positive and long-lasting change in Harrow“, she added.
“There are lots of things that are already taking place in Harrow that we don’t know about and we want to be able to capture these to get a true picture of where and how we are doing as a borough in our aim to become carbon neutral. We welcome as many people as possible to feedback and have their say. ”
