As global temperatures continue to increase councillors have declared a ‘climate emergency’ and committed to investigate what it will take to make County Durham carbon neutral. Durham County Council has agreed to adopt a new target of being 60 per cent carbon neutral by 2030, after councillors passed a motion yesterday (Wednesday, 20 February). It has also agreed to explore what is required to become 100 per cent carbon neutral by 2050. From pre-industrial levels global temperatures have increased by one degree Celsius, contributing to the changing weather, flash flooding and extreme heat, which parts of the world, including County Durham, have been experiencing. Working with partner agencies the council has pledged to determine the best methods to limit global warming to less than 1.5 degrees Celsius – the figure agreed by the Paris Agreement to tackle climate change and recommended by the Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate change (IPCC). This includes identifying opportunities for innovation, developing clean industries and a green economy, and ensuring the county has the right infrastructure in place to deliver on these new targets. Cllr Carl Marshall, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “As a council we have already proven our commitment in this area, with projects such as the Business Energy Efficiency Project (BEEP) and our extensive street lighting LED replacement programme. “It is important that we take responsibility for our environment, protect our planet and ensure that we leave the county a better place for our children. “Together with our partners we will be working on our Carbon Reduction Strategy, which will set out exactly what it will take to make the county cleaner and greener for generations to come.” County Durham has already surpassed the 2020 target, having achieved a 42 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, and continues to show foresight and leadership when it comes to addressing climate change. A report will be made to full council within six months outlining the actions the council will need to achieve to meet the new 2030 target, and in order to become carbon neutral by 2050.