Petition launched calling on Dudley Council to declare a climate emergency

Over 230 authorities across the UK have made the declaration, with vows to put the fight against climate change at the heart of policy and budgetary decisions.

A motion calling on the council to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint by 2030 was submitted by Councillor Chris Barnett who represents Quarry Bank and Dudley Wood in June this year.

The motion has yet to be debated in the council chamber and Cllr Barnett is backing the petition to ensure that the motion is heard and passed.

Cllr Barnett said: "More than 200 local authorities across the country, from Devon to Dundee have already declared a climate emergency.

"Councils run by Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and the Labour Party have passed similar motions to the one I have put forward. It is clear that this is not a party political issue, this is far more important than that.

"I urge colleagues in both my party and those in the Conservative Group to support this motion when it comes to full council.”

The petition has been launched by Andrew Tromans, the Labour candidate for Belle Vale, who said: "Over the last few months I have been out in Belle Vale meeting residents and one of their main concerns is the environment.

"The message I am hearing, time and time again is that they want Dudley Council to raise its game by improving recycling facilities and making it clear they will protect the green spaces.”

“There is an appetite not only for short term measures but for action that will help ensure that Dudley remains an attractive place for future generations to live and work.”

The call has also been backed by Ellen Cobb, an animal rights activist and Labour Candidate for Amblecote.

She said: “Time is running out. We need urgent action to protect our green spaces, reduce emissions, significantly decrease the amount of waste we produce, and restore wildlife habitats that have been destroyed.

"Individuals make a difference but this change has to be systemic. Action from local authorities is pivotal.

"Tackling climate change has a direct and positive impact on Dudley residents, enhancing physical and mental health."

The petition, which can be signed here, calls on Dudley Council to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint by 2030; to ensure that 100% of energy consumed by the Council comes from renewable or sustainable sources by 2030 and asks that the Place Scrutiny Committee set up a Climate Change Action Group to ensure the authority is doing all it can to fight climate change.