A new climate strategy aiming to protect Huntingdonshire's future and achieve the commitment of a net zero carbon district by 2040 is to be presented at a district council meeting.

Huntingdonshire District Council's (HDC) executive councillor for climate and environment, Lara Davenport-Ray, will present the strategy for approval at a full council meeting on Wednesday (February 22).

A report will be presented that recommends that HDC formally recognise a climate crisis and ecological emergency in the area, adopt the proposed "unique" climate strategy in response to the emergency, and adopt a detailed action plan.

Ahead of the meeting, Cllr Davenport-Ray, said: "This strategy has gone through the formal scrutiny process by all the councillors, and that also includes opposition councillors, and the feedback from my colleagues on both sides of the chamber has been how enthusiastic they are to see cross-party support for action in this arena.

"Not just support, but a real genuine interest as well. So I am very positive about what is going to happen on the 22nd."

READ MORE: Residents invited to shape the district's climate strategy

Part of the action plan involves frequent yearly collaboration with individuals, councillors and businesses to review what is/isn't working and ensure the council is on track for its net-zero target.

The Hunts Post: The plan is for HDC to follow a hierarchy of action, prioritising reduction in emissions through changing activity and the way energy is used first.The plan is for HDC to follow a hierarchy of action, prioritising reduction in emissions through changing activity and the way energy is used first. (Image: Huntingdonshire District Council)

Cllr Davenport-Ray added that listening to the public is a priority of the joint administration.

To bring climate to the forefront of people's thinking, the action plan was co-developed and co-authored with individuals, businesses, and communities so that it is embedded in everyone's way of thinking.

Six objectives were formed that reflect the priorities of residents and the strategic goals of the council.

They include three council priorities; decarbonise fleets, reduce energy use and shift to renewables, and procure wisely, and three district-wide priorities; sustain travel with low emissions, reduce energy use and increase biodiversity and restore nature.

If passed, HDC plan to lead by example and will encourage and enable people across the district to take action.

To view the climate strategy, visit www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk/environmental-issues/climate-strategy/