Intervention by a Green Party Councillor has made sure that Darlington Borough Council will make sure that tackling the climate emergency and protecting the natural environment will be on an equal footing as addressing inequality and efficient resource use.
At a recent council meeting Matthew Snedker, leader of the Green Group, shared his concerns that recent speeches by Rachael Reeves had shown the Labour Party breaking a number of manifesto promises.
Ms Reeves speech at the exclusive Klosters ski resort on 22nd January set a new direction where growth overrules any other consideration and where nature should not get in the way of business.
Cllr Snedker said: “The idea that we have to choose between economic prosperity and safeguarding our children’s future is absolute nonsense – in fact it’s quite the opposite. There is clear evidence that sustainable businesses are where growth can be found in the UK. The UK’s net zero economy grew by 9%, in stark contrast to the 0.1% growth seen in the economy overall[1][2]. Taking action on climate change is good for business, good for people and good for the environment.
“Ms Reeves strategy doesn’t add up and it felt more as if she was chasing headlines than chasing a sustainable, fairer future for the UK. By raising the point at the January council meeting I was able to hold the council to account and gain assurances that, as far as Darlington is concerned, action to cut harmful greenhouse gas emissions and protect our natural world will remain a top priority.”