We see the climate emergency unfolding every day. News stories show Arctic ice melting, floods destroying homes, forest fires choking the air and heat waves melting tarmac. Every United Nations report speaks of the urgency to limit greenhouse gases. The science can be overwhelming, with tipping points and feedback loops. Many of us want to take action, but don’t know where to start. It can feel overwhelming.
In 2020 the North East produced 8,639 kilotonnes of CO2 equivalent greenhouse gas emissions. That’s 4.31 tonnes per person. And while that’s way better than the US, Canada or Australia, we need to move towards zero. Fast
We are not powerless. While world leaders negotiate at COP, we can take action right here, right now. We’re building a coalition of people in our region. Our local authorities and Mayors are on board. Our NHS. Our businesses, large and small. Our charities and community groups. Our people.
It’s for everyone. And you can join us too.
There’s some great work already happening. We’re creating thousands of well-paid jobs in renewable energy and decarbonising transport. We’re planting new forests, capturing carbon and restoring nature. We’re gearing up for a world-class climate education, from schoolchildren right through to adults retraining for jobs in new industries. And there’s much more to do.
The world cannot hit net-zero until cities and regions hit net-zero. Let’s show the world what the North East can do.