Hackney launches new climate action plan
A new climate action plan has been adopted by the London Borough of Hackney at its cabinet meeting, including plans for reducing the emissions of transport and improving air quality.
The plan includes goals for 2030 to make at least 59% of journeys that start in Hackney are on foot or by bike, compared to 53% in 2020 and have most petrol and diesel vehicles phased out, including 64% of cars and 68% of vans on the road being battery-powered.
Additionally, goals for only 5% of trips that start in Hackney to be by private car or motorbike, compared to 13% in 2020, with freight traffic 10% lower than in 2019, with more alternative delivery models on the road – such as cargo bikes. Road space currently used for parking has been reduced to support the promotion of walking, cycling and climate resilience, it said.
The fresh strategy aims for cleaner air, greener neighbourhoods and cheaper heating and electricity for the future, as well as reducing pollution and helping local ecosystems thrive.
The plan also recognises the need to make sure the transition to a net zero society fair by reducing inequalities and creating benefits such as improved air quality, better mental health, and biodiversity enhancement.
Philip Glanville, Mayor of Hackney, said: “We can only tackle climate change in partnership with businesses and local people, particularly as the Council only has direct control over about 5% of the borough’s emissions.
“The climate action plan builds on our climate summit and the consultation we held last year, creating a movement of people across Hackney who can help take action – however big or small – and end our contribution to climate change.”
Cllr Mete Coban MBE, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: “Under each of its themes, the climate action plan sets a number of goals for the borough to be achieved by 2030. This will require significant changes in all of our behaviour, infrastructure, business models, and co-operation. These goals are ambitious, borough-wide and aligned with the Paris Agreement.
“Reaching these goals at a local level doesn’t rely on action by a single organisation, they are for everyone: residents, community groups and organisations, businesses and institutions.”
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