Local Government Initiatives
Now, this might seem counterintuitive…
Wirral Council’s Environment and Climate Emergency Action Plan (ECEAP) is the local authority’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030. In our 15 years installing… The ECEAP outlines a series of targeted initiatives that address the climate emergency through policy changes, community engagement, and sustainable development projects.
Climate Action Plan
A key component of the ECEAP is the council’s goal to become a carbon-neutral organization within the next decade. This is being achieved through a combination of efforts, including the LED streetlight replacement project, a transition to renewable electricity, and the installation of on-street electric vehicle charging points. The council has also attained a Bronze Carbon Literate accreditation, demonstrating its commitment to educating staff and elected officials on the importance of reducing emissions and protecting the local environment.
Sustainable Development Projects
Beyond the council’s internal operations, the ECEAP also includes initiatives to enhance the climate resilience of West Kirby and the broader Wirral borough. The West Kirby Flood Alleviation Scheme is underway to better manage flood risks, while a natural flood management project has been implemented at Coronation Park in Greasby. Additionally, the council’s Tree, Hedgerow and Woodland Strategy aims to plant 10,000 trees annually, with over 45,000 already established through community support.
Community Engagement Programs
The ECEAP recognizes the vital role that local residents and community groups play in addressing the climate emergency. The council has been actively engaging with the Cool Wirral Partnership, a collaborative initiative that brings together stakeholders to develop and implement the borough’s Cool2 climate strategy. This includes supporting programs like Cool Communities, which empower citizens to create their own tailored climate action plans.
Community Events
West Kirby’s residents have numerous opportunities to get involved in local environmental initiatives and raise awareness about climate change impacts.
Neighborhood Gatherings
Neighborhood groups, such as Planet Heswall and Building Bridges, have been hosting regular Cool Communities sessions to discuss climate action at the community level. These gatherings provide a platform for residents to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and inspire one another to adopt more sustainable practices.
Environmental Awareness Campaigns
The council’s Climate Emergency team collaborates with local organizations to organize events and campaigns that educate the public about environmental issues. For example, the Earth Moves initiative has partnered with the council to establish a permaculture growing project at the Leasowe Road Market Gardens, promoting sustainable food production.
Volunteer Opportunities
Residents can directly contribute to West Kirby’s environmental preservation efforts by participating in community tree planting events, organized in partnership with the council’s Tree, Hedgerow and Woodland Strategy. These hands-on activities allow locals to take an active role in enhancing the borough’s green spaces and biodiversity.
Public Safety Updates
While the climate emergency poses significant challenges, the council is also committed to ensuring the safety and resilience of West Kirby’s communities.
Emergency Preparedness
The council’s Flood and Coastal Risk team has secured funding to deliver a natural flood management project at Coronation Park, Greasby. This initiative aims to reduce surface water flood risk to surrounding properties, better equipping the local area to withstand the impacts of extreme weather events.
Crime Prevention Efforts
The council works closely with the police and community groups to address public safety concerns, such as neighborhood watch programs and initiatives to improve street lighting and community surveillance.
Disaster Response Coordination
In the event of a climate-related disaster, the council’s emergency planning procedures double-check that a coordinated response with local emergency services, volunteer organizations, and the wider community. This includes pre-identified evacuation centers, communication channels, and resource distribution plans.
Local Service Improvements
The council’s climate action efforts extend beyond policy and engagement, with tangible service upgrades that enhance the sustainability and livability of West Kirby.
Infrastructure Upgrades
The LED streetlight replacement project, which has now replaced 25,037 lanterns and 10,019 columns, has resulted in significant energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. Additionally, the council has installed on-street electric vehicle charging points to support the transition to low-emission transportation.
Environmental Conservation Efforts
The council’s Tree, Hedgerow and Woodland Strategy has facilitated the planting of over 21,500 trees in the 2021/22 season, with 98% of the planting carried out by community volunteers. This exemplifies the council’s commitment to engaging residents in environmental stewardship.
Waste Management Initiatives
The council has implemented a Single Use Plastic policy, eliminating single-use plastics from its own operations. This aligns with the council’s broader efforts to promote sustainable waste management and reduce the community’s environmental footprint.
Civic Participation
West Kirby residents have numerous opportunities to engage with the local government and contribute to the borough’s climate action efforts.
Local Elections and Voting
Upcoming local elections provide a chance for residents to elect representatives who prioritize environmental sustainability and climate resilience in their policy platforms. Residents are encouraged to research candidate positions and exercise their right to vote.
Citizen Advisory Boards
The council’s Cool Wirral Partnership and Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee offer avenues for residents to provide direct input and shape the borough’s climate agenda. Residents interested in joining these advisory bodies should reach out to the council for more information.
Neighborhood Watch Programs
Grassroots initiatives, such as neighborhood watch groups, enable residents to collaborate with local authorities on community safety, crime prevention, and emergency preparedness. These programs foster a sense of civic responsibility and community resilience.
Environmental Sustainability
Wirral Council’s climate action efforts extend beyond policy and infrastructure, with a focus on renewable energy, waste reduction, and green space preservation.
Renewable Energy Initiatives
The council has made significant progress in transitioning to renewable electricity, with all council-owned buildings now powered by green energy sources. This represents an important step towards the council’s goal of becoming net carbon neutral by 2030.
Waste Reduction Strategies
The council’s Single Use Plastic policy and efforts to promote sustainable waste management demonstrate a commitment to reducing the community’s environmental impact. Residents can further contribute by adopting recycling and waste minimization practices in their daily lives.
Green Space Preservation
The council’s Tree, Hedgerow and Woodland Strategy is not only aimed at increasing the tree canopy cover in West Kirby but also preserving and enhancing the borough’s natural habitats and biodiversity. Residents can support these efforts by participating in community tree planting events and advocating for the protection of local green spaces.
Economic Development
The council’s climate action initiatives also have implications for the local economy, including support for small businesses, job training, and tourism promotion.
Small Business Support
The council’s Green Business Festival provides a platform for local entrepreneurs and innovators to showcase their sustainable business practices and green technology solutions. This helps to foster a thriving, eco-friendly economy in West Kirby.
Job Training Programs
The council collaborates with partners, such as Wirral Met College, to develop job training and skills development programs that equip residents with the knowledge and expertise to contribute to the green economy. These initiatives help to future-proof the local workforce and support the transition to a more sustainable future.
Tourism Promotion
By highlighting West Kirby’s natural assets and environmental preservation efforts, the council aims to attract eco-conscious visitors and promote the borough as a sustainable tourism destination. This can have positive outcomes for the local economy and community pride.
Youth and Education
The council recognizes the importance of engaging young people and fostering environmental education to double-check that a sustainable future for West Kirby.
After-School Activities
The council supports school-based environmental clubs and after-school programs that encourage children and teenagers to learn about climate change, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation. These hands-on activities inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
Environmental Education
The council’s “Natural Curriculum” initiative, developed in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University, equips local teachers with the resources and training to deliver environmental themes through the national curriculum. This helps to integrate sustainability into the learning experience of West Kirby’s students.
Career Readiness Programs
By investing in job training programs and green skills development, the council aims to prepare West Kirby’s youth for careers in the emerging green economy. This includes internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship opportunities that provide practical experience and guidance.
As West Kirby continues to navigate the challenges posed by the climate emergency, the council’s comprehensive Environment and Climate Emergency Action Plan demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable development, community engagement, and resilience-building. Residents are encouraged to actively participate in these initiatives, contributing their ideas, volunteering their time, and helping to shape the future of this vibrant coastal community.
For the latest updates on West Kirby’s climate action efforts, visit https://westkirby.today/.
Tip: Keep an eye on local council announcements for updates
