Climate projects across the west of England are receiving a boost as millions of pounds of new investment has been agreed. Millions will now be spent on new woodlands, nature reserves and other projects in Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Bath and north east Somerset. The projects are aiming to reduce the region’s greenhouse gas emissions, and help local wildlife and natural habitats.
The funding was approved by the West of England combined authority. But West of England metro mayor Dan Norris warned that extreme heat this summer showed the need for much more action on cutting carbon emissions.
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He said: “Over the summer we had record temperatures showing once again that we face a climate emergency that requires bold action. We have got to a point now where most of us in the room feel that we can’t take our foot off the gas — if that’s not a bad metaphor. Here we have investments that support nature recovery and renewable energy generation.”
Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, added: “I’m very pleased to see the application from Avon Needs Trees for a great Avon wood, creating a new community woodland of over 50,000 trees just south of Bristol, which will be the jewel in the crown of the region’s green infrastructure. At least 1,000 volunteers will help plant these trees and create a woodland trail for the enjoyment of the entire public.”
The new climate cash will also go towards projects like a suspended floating plant system outside Capricorn Quay on Bristol’s Floating Harbour, to help fish and rare eels. Other projects include local researchers working on wind turbines; and nature recovery projects in Radstock, Westfield and Midsomer Norton.
One organisation set to receive new climate cash is Sustainable Innovative Foundations for Turbines. Project leader David Tudgey said: “We're delighted for the unanimous £1.5 million funding award decision today from West of England combined authority leaders, which will allow us to support communities who wish to bring forward onshore wind projects in suitable locations across the region.”
South Gloucestershire Council leader Toby Savage added: “I’m very pleased to see support for the Frome Valley River Reserve project. It’s a flagship new nature reserve that the council is driving, through an existing council landholding which we’re keen to maximise for biodiversity gain and to aid nature recovery.”
