1.7

As an active member of our community, I have strong reservations regarding the council's Climate Change Strategy. Good intentions alone will not help us combat climate change; we must execute practical, community-centered actions that take into account the voices and needs of local residents. Unfortunately, the current draft appears to impose one-size-fits-all solutions, failing to acknowledge the diversity and specificity of challenges faced in different districts within our community. This lack of nuance could lead to situations where local needs are neglected in favour of generic sustainable development agendas. I urge the council not to overlook the role of local input in shaping strategies that directly impact our lives; after all, community resilience can only be built on an inclusive approach. An effective climate strategy should weave local knowledge into its foundation.

Recognising climate change as a pressing issue, I must voice my concerns regarding the council’s proposed Climate Change Strategy. The rhetoric surrounding a climate emergency is commendable; nonetheless, I worry about the lack of specificity and actionable items that could lead to tangible results. For many residents, the strategy feels disconnected from our day-to-day realities, giving off a sense that policymaking is happening in isolation. In particular, the commitment to promoting carbon resilience needs a better practical framework to guide developers and decision-makers on what constitutes such resilience in our unique district—the absence of this might result in confusion and inconsistent practices. A more transparent approach that offers clear guidelines and engages the community in dialogue would enhance the effectiveness and acceptance of this strategy.

We need clarity to enable all stakeholders to understand and support the strategy effectively.