One of the key reasons for creating Castle Point Climate Action Group, is to put pressure onto Castle Point council to lead by example and to push them to deliver a bold plan on how they will tackle climate change at a local level. Ideally the calling of a climate emergency. We don't simply want rhetoric- we need Castle Point Council to set about immediate action and a plan on how they are going to not just achieve a net carbon zero borough by 2050...but to exceed this. We need our council to be progressive, aggressive leaders in achieving this. CPCAG don't intend on being a 'thorn in the side' of local government, but to help them recognise the views of their constituents and to help ensure that collectively, we can make this happen.
Sign our petition for Castle Point council to declare a Climate Emergency
Click the image below, to sign our petition:
Declare a climate emergency
Castle Point council need to follow the precedent set by other local authorities in declaring a Climate emergency in our borough. With our Government committed to achieving Carbon Net Zero by 2050 (regardless of the fact that there is no clear plan as yet), this can only be achieved through action at a local level.
The council must recognise that their constituents want to see action on this issue and that by declaring a climate emergency, we can all work together on this.
For example, implement increased carbon reduction measurements for all new builds, exceeding those prescribed in the building regulations - ideally with a push towards nearly zero energy buildings (NZEB). Passive haus standards are now proven and cost effective to design and implement and there is no reason not to design to this standard. Castle Point council should mandate that the maximum amount of roof space on a new build, implements Building Integrated Solar Panels (BIPV). Though doing this, traditional roofing materials (tiles, slate etc) are not required in the PV array area, thereby displacing material costs and preventing the costs associated with reto-fitting in the future. Maximum efficency in the fabric of the envelope of the buildings shoudl be encouraged- thereby reducing the energy demands of the property for space heating. Any heating that is required should then be through a low carbon heat source- such as heat pump (air sourced or ground sourced where applicable).
There is already a requirement that no new buildings be connected to the gas supply by 2025 (originally 2017) and it is therefor the duty of Castle Point council to ensure that local industry is ready to deliver. Collectively, local industy, supply chains and local authorities can then begin to build the skills, expertise and understanding that is required in providing a 'no regrets solution' for our buildings.