Climate Emergency Action - Merton Liberal Democrats

The Climate Emergency

WHAT WE’VE DONE

Jointly sponsored the Council’s 2019 Climate Emergency Declaration – it was the Lib Dems who ensured it contained measurable targets and included residents in the working group.
Called for the Climate Action Plan to include tree & biodiversity strategies – voted down by Labour.
Successfully convinced the Council to include single use plastics in the Climate Action Plan.
Twice proposed de-carbonising the Council’s pension fund – voted down in September 2021 and November 2021.
Ensured that the pot of money councillors can use for small projects in their area can be spent on tree planting.
Opposed and successfully delayed Labour’s greenwashing 'tax on not voting Labour’ which unfairly increased parking charges only in areas that don't tend to elect Labour councillors.

WHAT WE’LL DO

Appoint a Council Cabinet Member for the Climate Action Plan and Clean Air – to ensure there’s a real focus on achieving a zero carbon Merton by 2030.
De-carbonise the Council’s pension fund.
Put robust tree and biodiversity strategies in the Council’s Climate Action Plan.
Replace the Council transport fleet with electric vehicles and develop a strategy for electric charging points across the borough.
Prioritise helping residents to reduce their carbon emissions.
Turn off the lights in the Civic Centre (when they're not needed)!