Climate:Change - Why this? Why Now?
Ideas, Policy and Action for Socially Inclusive climate solutions in Brighton and Hove
Why this? Why now?
You might think Brighton and Hove, its leaders and people, are already deeply engaged in climate issues – and you would be right. The City has previously organised a Citizens’ Climate Assembly (in 2020), and a Youth Assembly (2020), and has a live online Climate Conversations platform. In 2018, the Council declared a climate and biodiversity emergency; and in 2021, it adopted a 2030 Carbon Neutral Programme, aiming for Brighton and Hove to be carbon neutral by 2030. A new Council was elected in May 2023, and has published a Corporate Plan for 2023-27, with sustainability as one of 4 main priority outcomes. There are many research centres, community groups and businesses deeply committed to action on climate change - in the two Universities, the Metropolitan College, a rich ecosystem of community organisations, and a dynamic population of large and small private sector businesses.
In this context, a think-tank plays a facilitating and integrative role. It strengthens networks and builds a bridge between research and policy. Climate:Change is independent, non-party-political, and non-partisan.
But how to act on climate change a way which is fair, financially viable, and effective? Which improves wellbeing? And which people support?
We residents of the City are currently responsible for over 2.5 million tons of greenhouse gases every year. That is about 8 tons for every woman, man and child in the city. Housing, food, travel and recreation all contribute (see Box). If we are to play our part in limiting global warming to 1.5 or 2 degrees, our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions need to fall rapidly. This requires action by individuals, the local authority and national Government. Brighton and Hove is embedded in a regional economy, so actions here need to be coordinated with our neighbours. And we also have responsibility for other aspects of the natural environment, including the downland estate.
The Place-Based Carbon Calculator, produced by Leeds University, estimates CO2e consumption emissions per person for different geographical entities in England – for Westminster constituencies, local authorities, wards, parishes, and down to small areas of 1500-3000 people. The results for Brighton and Hove show us as slightly below the national average, with emissions of nearly 8 tons per head.
Source: https://www.carbon.place/la/
Climate change is a big, cross-cutting topic – but it is not the only challenge facing the City. That is why we emphasise the importance of socially inclusive solutions. Climate action in Brighton and Hove must help create jobs, not destroy them; reduce inequality, not worsen it; strengthen resilience; improve the quality of life; and enhance well-being.
We hope Climate:Change can play a part in Brighton and Hove’s transition to a climate compatible development pathway. We encourage all stakeholders to make use of this new platform
Nicky Lumb
Simon Maxwell
Co-Chairs
September 2023