The new plan outlines the current and anticipated impacts of climate change across the Borough. It includes proposals to address these challenges, comply with the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 and fulfil the Council’s commitments to safeguarding our planet.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly commented,
“Climate change is one of the most significant challenges of our time, and it is imperative that we take decisive action to mitigate its impacts. Our Climate Change Action Plan reflects our commitment to sustainability and our responsibility to future generations. We are dedicated to working with our community to create a healthier, more sustainable and resilient Antrim and Newtownabbey.”
The plan sets out six key aims with 68 actions and will be delivered over the coming years. The aims include establishing our baseline emissions and working to reduce them, reducing our energy and water consumption, supporting the Borough towards Net Zero by 2050 and promoting environmental resilience including in our buildings and public spaces.
In addition, Council will continue to influence and support the wider Borough through the delivery of education and training, as well as supporting the business sector through the movement towards a low carbon, circular economy.
Chair of the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Sustainability Working Group, Councillor Billy Webb commented,
"We are thrilled to present our new Climate Change Action Plan, which details our approach to addressing climate change in Antrim and Newtownabbey in the coming years. With our understanding of the urgent need for climate action, this plan provides the aims and framework necessary to help us to strive to reach Net Zero emissions. The plan was built through extensive collaboration with key Council departments and stakeholders. We are ready to put this plan into action and show our commitment to protecting our communities and our planet.”
The Council’s Climate Change Action Plan is available online at https://antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/climate-change-action-plan
(L-R) Claire Evans, Climate, Waste and Sustainability Officer; Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly; and Michael Laverty, Director of Sustainability.