The report provided information on the green initiatives the Council are presently undertaking and in doing so advises that a joined up green agenda for the borough would be far more beneficial.

The report also begins to explore the legislation, government targets and other work that is being considered to improve the worlds environmental climate.  This includes work currently being undertaken by the Council and also highways work other organisations are putting into place.

The report suggests opportunities to begin work to deliver some immediate environmental benefits.  These could start with immediate effect if resources are identified.  This work would include the recent approved motion relating to developing and implementation car charging points in the borough.

A request from Cllr Hossack that a presentation from Connect Kerb is brought to a future meeting was accepted.

Cllr Tumbridge MOVED and Cllr Mrs Hones SECONDED the recommendations in the report subject to an additional recommendation at 2.3 to state:-

3.      A report to the next meeting of Policy, Resources and Economic Development on:-

(i)   use of lighting solutions to save energy & money in council buildings

(ii)     installation options on car charging points at council owned        properties

(iii)    what green focused businesses are in the borough

(iv)    how we reduce non-recyclable plastic use.

A vote was taken by a show of hands and it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY.

1. To agree to develop a Green Agenda that is both specific to the way the Council undertake its duties and will positively affect the Borough and a further report be made to Policy Resources and Economic Development Committee later this year.

2. To agree to investigate the potential projects listed within this report to work towards a better environment which will work with the development of a green agenda.

3. A report to the next meeting of Policy, Resources and Economic Development on:-

(i)     use of lighting solutions to save energy & money in council      buildings

(ii)    installation options on car charging points at council owned                            properties

(iii)    what green focused businesses are in the borough

           (iv)    how we reduce non-recyclable plastic use.

Reasons for Recommendation

The Council has some good pieces of environmental work that are undertaken but it is felt this work is un-coordinated and could achieve much more with a joined-up approach.

Set out long term ambitions and targets with the wider work that is being undertaken, for example the 25 Year Government Plan.

Having a green agenda will assist the Council to develop and apply for funding for green initiatives.

Be able to start initiatives now that will support any long-term green agenda.