Renewables
Last year the UK Government made a firm commitment to boost renewable energy by supporting a new EU Directive which says that 15% of all UK energy should come from renewable sources by 2020.We have an opportunity to make sure that the Government supports a strong and sustainable renewable energy strategy at home and in Europe. This means making sure the UK commits to its current target in the EU Directive, and then publishes a robust UK strategy.
Goyt Valley recognised as Nature Reserve.
Stockport Council recognises the importance of the countryside near the heart of our town.Stockport Friends of the Earth organised a third May Bank Holiday walk in 2008 to appreciate our local countryside.
Climate Change Act 2008
Friends of the Earth led the campaign for a climate change law, which will oblige the UK to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 80 per cent by 2050. The new legislation is the first of its kind anywhere in the world - and should put Britain at the forefront of international efforts to tackle climate change.
In three years people power has changed politics.
“Hundreds of thousands of people across the UK who have demanded a strong law have forced the Government to listen and won a huge victory in the battle against climate change.”
“Developing a low carbon economy here in the UK is the only way to deliver on the law, move Britain out of recession and into a greener more prosperous future.” Andy Atkins, Friends of the Earth Executive Director.
Gordon takes notice of Kate (with your help):
"It's crazy for Gordon Brown to leave out climate changing emissions from planes and ships from the new Climate Change Law but that's what he is doing. Why should our local industry and businesses be held to account for their carbon emissions but not the aviation industry?"
Kate Eldridge, Stockport Friends of the EarthTransition Town Stockport?
Stockport Friends of the Earth have organised a reference copy of 'The Transition Handbook' by Rob Hopkins in Stockport Central Library, Wellington Road South, Stockport for you to read up on bringing about local resilience and reducing carbon emissions.
NO vote on TIF, but no Plan B.
The people of Greater Manchester overwhelmingly voted NO on the Transport Innovation Proposals.
Unfortunately, those opposing the proposals have no Plan B, so next time you are frustrated, sitting in a traffic jam, wondering why everyone else has to drive at the same time as you, just reflect on the true cost of congestion, poor air quality and fossil fuel emissions and whether a congestion charge might have made a difference.
So what is your local Council going to do to improve the situation?
When will they build a new bus interchange in Stockport?
How will building more roads reduce the number of cars on the road at peak time?
How are they going to bring trams to Stockport and when?
Who do you think will pay for all this?