Public asked to have their say

The public has been asked to make submissions on how Cork County Council can best transition to a climate resilient, biodiversity rich, environmentally sustainable and climate-neutral economy.

It comes as the council has published a Baseline Evidence Summary Report which contains baseline emission inventory information and examines how the climate in Cork county has changed in recent decades, while also showing the risks of impact that future climate change may cause.

The report was presented to councillors during Monday’s Cork County Council meeting.

Mayor of Cork Cllr Danny Collins said: “We are encouraging everyone to get involved so that communities, bodies, groups and other stakeholders can be part of the development of our Climate Action Plan.

“Cork County Council recognises the wealth of local information throughout the county and we want to work together to gather as much information as possible to ensure that we all play our part in supporting our county’s climate ambitions.”

Cork County Council said it expects to use its influence as a local authority to lead the fight against climate change with direct support from the people living in Cork county.

The final Climate Action Plan, when published, will show how the council can work to influence, facilitate and coordinate the climate actions of communities and other stakeholders.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey said: “Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing our citizens, and one in which everyone bears a responsibility to do their part for future generations. The development of this Climate Action Plan marks a new chapter for our climate ambitions which will allow us to build on the large amount of work already underway and create a specific Climate Action Plan for Cork County, reflecting national climate objectives but making them real at a local level.”

Cork County Council is required by statute to adopt the plan before 24 February 2024.