Eastbourne ‘at the vanguard’ of climate action

The launch of Eastbourne Carbon Neutral 2030 has been hailed a huge success by Eastbourne Borough Council after 1000 people attended the event at the Welcome Building in Devonshire Quarter.

Unlike the government and other councils that have less ambitious targets for carbon reduction, Eastbourne Borough Council is determined to make the town carbon neutral by 2030.

On Saturday a host of speakers and exhibitors provided visitors with top tips and advice for reducing their carbon footprint and playing a role in tackling the climate emergency.

Councillor Jonathan Dow, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, said:

“The launch was a triumph and a real feather in the cap for our town.

“ECN2030 has put Eastbourne at the vanguard of the fight against climate change amongst other local authorities and I’m delighted we’re leading the way.

“From speaking to experts at the event, including Friends of the Earth, it’s clear we are doing something unique in Eastbourne and I’m very proud of that.

“The challenge is huge, no doubt about it. But doing nothing is not an option, my children, your children and their children, need us to make the changes that will help save life on earth.  It sounds scary, because it is.”

During the day visitors were able to explain changes they are making to their own lives, and ideas for others to follow, on a pledge tree.

The steps being taken by residents cover a wide range of areas, they included buying second hand clothes because of concerns about the fashion industry’s impact on the environment, taking holidays by train instead of flying, walking much more to reduce car use, planting trees, growing vegetables at home, eating less meat and dairy and reducing home energy use.

Councillor Dow added:

“A big thank you to everyone who visited the ECN2030 launch and to all the people who made it happen.

“Our ten year journey to a carbon neutral town is underway and I know I can rely on Eastbourne residents to get us there on time.”

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