Portsmouth City Borough Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Green Recovery Meeting

No apologies were received.

No interests were declared.

Bethan Mose, Health Development Manager introduced the report and in response to a question, explained that they are aiming to do a whole schools engagement programme as part of a grass roots approach. 

Councillor New noted that as seagrass captures 35% more carbon than trees, it is essential that sea grass meadows maintenance and enhancement is included in the strategy. 

Councillor Barrett agreed that the work from the scrutiny review into enhancing biodiversity in urban Portsmouth will feed into this strategy refresh.  She also stated that she was talking to the university about their seagrass restoration projects.  It is important that as a coastal city, both the land and marine environments were safe.  She made a clear commitment to the greening agenda being a corporate priority and making the Green & Healthy City position permanent.

Kristina Downey, Principal Strategy Advisor added that she will update members on the progress of the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is starting a seagrass restoration project.

The report was noted

Kristina Downey introduced the report.

Councillor Barrett noted the importance of showing that the council is acting on its promise with regard to the climate change emergency.

The report was noted

Kristina Downey presented the report.

In response to questions, Kelly Nash, Corporate Performance Manager clarified that it is too early this year to use the tool to evaluate the information.   

In response to a further question, Kristina Downey explained that as a unitary authority, the council's actions impact across the city and effect not just its own emissions.  Its influence, however, is limited and data shows that actions from central government have more impact overall.  The government's deadline for achieving net zero is 2050 and the council's is 2030.  The council is reliant on the support of the Portsmouth Climate Action board, residents and businesses.

Councillor Barrett noted that at a recent meeting, 20 people representing local organisations across the board attended.  It is important that the local authorities work alongside all organisations, not just the bigger employers.

All projects have a significant cost and therefore it is hoped that the government will provide more funding so that this work can continue.

The report was noted

Kelly Nash introduced the report.

The report was noted