Facing the Future: Thoughts on Climate Change and Management of Places
Thursday, November 25, 2021
The presentation given by Professor Peter Roberts, Chair of Kirklees Climate Commission, provided a very rational and balanced approach to the way we need to approach issues surrounding climate change.
Those who attended Peter’s presentation will have been struck by the enormity of the challenge, paralleled by the recognition that action is required by all of us in helping meet targets to prevent catastrophic change.
Peter’s presentation focussed on the causes and consequences of climate change, especially at a local level, that we all need to address in terms of our activities.
At a local level attribution of emissions generated by sector is as follows: Transport 47%, Domestic Buildings 32%, Public & Commercial Buildings 12% and Industry 9%. The analysis then identified sectors with the greatest potential for reductions in emissions between 2020-2050: Domestic 44%, Transport 31%, Public & Commercial Buildings 18%, Industry 7%.
Such estimates have a significant bearing on our future work, especially in relation to spatial/local plans, active travel, regeneration, reuse of heritage buildings and tree planting/landscaping.
We have been strong advocates for improved ‘city’ living, use of brownfield sites, integrated active travel plans, environmental enhancement as well as the repurposing of historic buildings. The Climate Commission’s work will hopefully re-enforce our efforts in these areas.
See below for Peter’s presentation slides.