Climate Champion chosen
East Hampshire District Council has announced a Climate Champion to lead the fight against climate change.
Cllr Ginny Boxall was appointed to the role at EHDC’s Full Council meeting on Thursday 19 September.
The Lib Dem councillor heads up the council’s cross-party work to reduce the council’s impact on the environment. She will be supported by Cllr Russell Oppenheimer.
Cllr Boxall said: “It is vital for future generations that we are fully focused on finding ways to reduce our carbon emissions as a matter of urgency.
“I am delighted to take up the role of Climate Champion for East Hampshire. I will be working with councillors of all political persuasions, staff from all departments and our many partners across the district to reduce our own emissions and promote climate and environment initiatives.
“I welcome the Leader\’s endorsement and the support of many of my fellow members who have stepped up to help.”
In July East Hampshire District Council announced a climate emergency and set out a list of environmental targets.
The council will ensure all council services focus on environmental issues as part of everyday decision-making. It will promote sustainable building standards and will influence and collaborate with other public bodies to deliver the UK government Climate Change Act target to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Cllr Richard Millard, EHDC Leader, said: “We face huge challenges nationally and locally to reduce our carbon emissions within the timescales identified by scientists to safeguard our environment.
“EHDC is committed to taking a cross-party approach to dealing with the climate emergency. In addition to two working groups, I am pleased the council has appointed Cllr Ginny Boxall to be our Climate Champion.
“She has a track record of working with different stakeholders and fully understands the urgency of the need to take action.
“I look forward to supporting her and our councillor working parties, chaired by Cllr Julie Butler as portfolio holder, in delivering the change we need.”
