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CLIMATE change is very much at the forefront of public consciousness at the moment.

People of all ages and from all backgrounds are taking to the streets to call for immediate action to bring a stop to global warming.

Earlier this year, the council added its voice to the campaign by declaring a climate emergency and outlining the practical measures we will be taking to bring about change.

This included setting ourselves the target of reducing our carbon emissions by 60 per cent by 2030 and making County Durham carbon neutral by 2050.

To bring about such significant change, we need the support of everyone in the county, from individuals and families to entrepreneurs and big businesses. But it is by no means impossible. Durham County Council has already reduced its emissions by 47 per cent since 2008/9.

This has been done by replacing street lighting with energy efficient LED lights, installing solar panels and carrying out energy efficiency refurbishments in council buildings – which have all helped to reduce emissions. We are also increasing the number of electric vehicles we run, have introduced a pool bike scheme and have ambitious plans for tree planting, adding to the 500 hectares already established since 2000.

But as I have said, the council can’t do this alone – emissions from council buildings and activities make up only three per cent of the county’s total yearly emissions.

That’s why we’ve been supporting residents, businesses and communities through a wide range of initiatives. More than 900 low income and vulnerable households have now benefitted from the installation of free energy-efficient insulation and grants towards buying new boilers.

The Managing Money Better scheme, which provides energy-saving tips and advice to residents, has helped households across the county save more than £66,000 on energy bills.

More than 200 businesses have also reduced their energy costs thanks to advice delivered through our Business Energy Efficiency Project, while the installation of cycle parking at locations across the county is successfully encouraging more people to choose greener ways of travelling.

But, of course, there is still lots to be done. With that in mind, we’re currently asking residents for their views on what actions we should prioritise for the future through our climate change consultation.

The consultation runs until Thursday, October 31, so there is still plenty of time to have your say on this important issue and lead the way on shaping our greener future.

To take part in the consultation visit www.durham.gov.uk/consultation

Simon Henig, is leader of Durham County Council