Welcome for Birmingham Declaration on Climate Change

2.06.00pm GMT Fri 4th Dec 2009

"We all need to reduce our reliance on the fossil fuels that are causing climate chaos," said Dave Radcliffe. "Encouraging the development of green industries and new jobs is an essential part of this process."

Dave Radcliffe, Lib Dem Prospective MP for Selly Oak, has welcomed the Birmingham Declaration to make Birmingham greener that was proposed by Lib Dem councillors. Ahead of the Copenhagen climate talks, Birmingham City Council has agreed to use its purchasing power and influence to promote green initiatives and provide new employment opportunities.

"It is great news that Birmingham is leading by example," said Dave Radcliffe. "We all need to reduce our reliance on the fossil fuels that are causing climate chaos. Encouraging the development of green industries and new jobs is an essential part of this process."

The declaration states that by 2015:

• All vehicles procured by the Council should be electrically powered or run on liquefied petroleum gas.

• There will be at least 500 electric cars running on the streets of the city as we develop the electric charging infrastructure.

• 50% of electricity used by the Council should be generated from renewable sources.

• The City Council's energy consumption will be reduced by 25%.

• 10% of Birmingham homes will be linked to district heating systems.

• 10% of Birmingham homes will have retrofit insulation.

• There will be at least 10 "low carbon communities" similar to the successful example of Summerfield Eco-neighbourhood.

The declaration is intended to help Birmingham meet its target of reducing CO2 emissions in the city by more than 60% by 2026.

Related Links:

Birmingham Lib Dems Lead Climate Change Fight.

Birmingham Declaration.