In this current climate (pun intended), good environmental news is yet another endangered species.
Bucking that trend are the 19 councils taking action to tackle the interconnected climate and ocean emergencies.
Two years ago, ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow (COP26), I co-developed a model Motion for the Ocean with fellow ocean experts Dr Pamela Buchan and Nicola Bridge.
This was in recognition that the climate emergency cannot be resolved without ocean recovery: our ocean is essential to climate regulation, absorbing heat and carbon and driving our weather, but it is under more stress than ever before.
The good news is that 19 councils of all tiers, both coastal and inland, have now used our model Motion for the Ocean as a blueprint for meaningful local action to benefit ocean and climate – and the communities that rely on both.
In October 2023, Newark and Sherwood District Council became the first Midlands council to pass our ‘inland’ Motion for the Ocean, recognising that no matter where we live, we impact and are impacted by our ocean.
Cllr Emma Oldham (Ind), Portfolio Holder for Biodiversity and Environmental Services, proposed the motion that was passed unanimously. It read: “We are proud to join the Motion for the Ocean movement. As an inland council, we may not have direct coastal responsibilities, but we understand the significance and impact that our local actions and policies have on the ocean.”
As COP28 commands our attention, I’m thrilled that the ocean’s role as our greatest climate ally is finally being recognised – both internationally and locally. Ocean action is climate action. And both are required for a prosperous future.
The Motion for the Ocean can be the catalyst for turning the tide. No matter where you’re located, you can make a difference.
- Councillors across the political spectrum have championed the Motion for the Ocean. Free support, including more details and the model Motion for the Ocean for coastal and inland councils, are available at www.lgacoastalsig.com/motion-for-the-ocean