Durham County Council has become the first council in the UK to withdraw its climate emergency declaration, a move described by critics as a “very dark day.” The decision follows a major reform by the council since local elections in May, where it rescinded the 2019 declaration despite over 300 local governments having similar declarations.
Critics, including Lib Dem councillor Mark Wilkes, argue that rescinding the declaration jeopardizes finances and external funding, citing that climate action previously saved the council over £13 million last year. They warn against losing investments crucial for social care.
Discussions during the council meeting were contentious, with Reform Council leader Andrew Husband emphasizing a data-driven approach while others accused the Lib Dems of hypocrisy regarding child labor linked to lithium battery and solar panel production. Some members expressed disbelief at the rhetoric used in the debate, terming it “bonkers.”
Protests occurred outside the council, with around 200 demonstrators highlighting concerns over climate change. In a related action, another Reform UK Council, West Northamptonshire, voted to abolish its net zero target, stating that financial challenges prevent them from achieving sustainability goals.
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