Editor

I am writing because readers may not realise that Ceredigion County Council has not yet – despite our vulnerable coastal location - declared a Climate Emergency.

The council has already made a commitment to achieve carbonneutrality for its direct operations by 2030, and to divest from fossil fuel investments within two years. This is encouraging – but it is not enough.

Many local authorities have now recognised the global Climate Emergency. Aberystwyth University, the National Assembly and government of Wales, the Scottish Parliament and Government and the UK Parliament have all declared a Climate Emergency.

I therefore urge the council to, at the earliest possible opportunity, declare a Climate and Ecological Emergency, and to commit to consulting the public, and local environmental groups, in developing and a strategy to respond to the Emergency. This strategy should include the council’s existing target of Carbon Neutrality by 2030, and should be treated as a matter of urgency.

I would also ask readers of the Cambrian News to sign the online petition I have set up calling on the council to declare a Climate Emergency (www.change.org/ ceredigionclimateemergency).

A declaration by the council would be a clear signal to the people of Ceredigion that their local authority is determined to respond seriously to the greatest challenge facing humanity.

It would also provide a vital opportunity for local residents and businesses to work with the council in developing practical strategies for the action we need.

Only by acting now, and acting together, can we safeguard everyone’s future.

Steve Ketteringham Borth

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